PEERS® for Teens in Arizona
Social skills training that helps teens connect, belong, and thrive — available in Scottsdale, Phoenix, Gilbert, Chandler, and Tempe.
Why Parents Choose PEERS® at DBT Arizona
If your teen struggles with making or keeping friends, navigating social situations, or feeling isolated, you’re not alone. Many parents tell us:
- “My teen is bright but has trouble fitting in.”
- “Group chats and lunch tables are stressful instead of fun.”
- “They want friends but don’t know how to start or keep conversations going.”
PEERS® (Program for the Education and Enrichment of Relational Skills) is the most researched social skills program in the world, designed at UCLA and proven to help teens build real friendships.
At DBT Arizona, our program is led by doctoral-level psychologists and spearheaded by our Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), blending advanced clinical training with behavioral expertise. This integration ensures your teen not only learns the skills but also masters how to apply them in everyday life.
Offered in Scottsdale, Phoenix, Tempe, Gilbert, and Chandler.
What Teens Learn in PEERS®
- How to start, join, and maintain conversations
- Ways to handle teasing, bullying, and conflict
- How to choose friends who are a good fit
- Navigating digital communication (texts, group chats, social media)
Building and keeping close friendships
Parent participation matters
Parents attend a separate, concurrent group so you can coach and support your teen at home—reinforcing the skills that stick.
What Makes DBT Arizona’s PEERS® Program Different
- Led by doctoral-level clinicians – your teen is guided by psychologists with deep expertise.
- Spearheaded by our BCBA – ensuring the program is structured, measurable, and behaviorally effective.
- Research-grounded – delivered closely to the UCLA model with proven outcomes.
- Small group sizes – so every teen gets attention and practice.
- Integrated care – for families also in DBT or RO-DBT, skills align across programs.
Families join us from Scottsdale, Paradise Valley, Phoenix, Tempe, Gilbert, and Chandler for this unique level of expertise.
Is PEERS® Right for Your Teen?
PEERS® is designed for adolescents ages 13–17 who:
- Want to make friends but struggle with the “how”
- Feel anxious or avoidant in social settings
- Have autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, social anxiety, or related challenges
- Need practical, step-by-step skills—not just advice
What Parents Can Expect
- 12–16 weekly sessions (90 minutes each)
- A structured, supportive environment with role-plays and real-life practice
- Home assignments for both parents and teens to reinforce progress
- Noticeable improvements in confidence, connection, and friendship quality
Start Today: Give Your Teen the Skills to Belong
Don’t let your teen face the pain of isolation alone. With PEERS®, they can learn the skills to build real, lasting friendships.
📞 Call (480) 566-2342 to speak with our clinical coordinator
or [Request a Free Consultation] (link to contact form)
Serving Scottsdale, Phoenix, Tempe, Gilbert, and Chandler with in-person groups.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do parents need to attend?
Yes. Parent involvement is part of what makes PEERS® so effective. You’ll learn how to coach and support your teen between sessions.
Does my teen need a diagnosis to participate?
No. Any teen who wants to improve their social skills can benefit.
Is PEERS® covered by insurance or other funding?
Many families use private pay, HSA/FSA funds, or Arizona ESA (Empowerment Scholarship Account) funding. We are out-of-network providers, however, many of our clients submit to their insurance for reimbursement. Our team can discuss payment options during your consultation.
Where is PEERS® offered in Arizona?
DBT Arizona offers PEERS® for Teens in Scottsdale, Phoenix, Tempe, Gilbert, and Chandler. Families from nearby areas often travel to attend our in-person groups.
What ages can join PEERS®?
The program is designed for adolescents ages 13–17 who want to make and keep friends, navigate social situations, and build confidence.
