Social Skills Group
Frequently Asked Questions
What ages are the groups?
The ages of children enrolled vary each year, traditionally we serve children aged 8 through 17. Group enrollment is based on a first come first serve basis as well as verbal and social skills abilities. The school aged group serves children ages 8 through 10, the preteen group serves ages 11 through 13, and the teen group serves ages 14 through 17. To learn more about the licensed clinical psychologists that lead the groups please visit our team.
When do groups begin?
Groups typically start in the winter of each year and are offered in two sessions. Session 1 begins in January for 10-12 weeks and Session 2 begins at the end of March for 10-12 weeks. Please note, groups will not be held on holidays.
How often do groups meet?
All groups meet in-person at the UC Davis MIND Institute (Directions). Depending on your child's placement, groups meet once a week for approximately 10-12 weeks either Tuesday or Thursday afternoons from 4:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. Then mandatory parent group meets at the same time as the children's group.
Does the program accept private insurances, self-pay, etc.?
Yes. the MIND Institute accepts some private insurances, self-pay, or contracts through local Regional Centers for clinical service. If you are selected for group, we will work with you and your insurance provider to see if they will cover the program fees. In the meantime, you are welcome to contact your insurance company and see if they support IPT codes: Children Mental Health Outpatient Services Group Code 90857.
Does my child need a specific diagnosis?
Yes. Your child must have a diagnosis of autism or clinically significant social communication difficulties.
I have another child, can siblings be involved?
Yes. We will offer families options for sibling care while the child and parent are in their group. Siblings also have the option to participate in a virtual Sibling Group led by Erin Roseborough and Veronica Tuss, MIND Institute Child Life Specialists. This FREE program will focus on providing a safe place to interact, have fun, and engage with our siblings in conversation, activities, crafts, and play. To meet the needs of this unique program, it is currently offered to typically developing siblings only. To register, please contact hs-mindchildlife@ucdavis.edu.
What if I would like to have my child return to group?
Some of our group members do repeat the program. At the end of group your child's clinician will recommend if your family should continue in our program. If the clinician recommends that your child return for future sessions, you will be notified. Please contact Nicki Rodriguez at 916-703-0441 or hs-mindsocialskills@ucdavis.edu to be placed on the waitlist.
Is there a waitlist?
Yes. Families must contact the social skills coordinator before being placed on our waitlist. It is important to note that our waitlist does not guarantee a spot in the program, eligibility is ultimately determined by our clinical psychologist. Group enrollment is based on a first come first serve basis, chronological age, and social skills level.
Do we offer a summer program?
No. Unfortunately, we are not providing groups during the summer.