Advanced Behavioral Solutions (ABS)
953 N. Plum Grove Road, Suite B
Schaumburg, IL 60173
(847) 413-9001
Cook County
e-mail: advancedbehavioral@msn.com
See below description for each social skills group for children and adolescents with high functioning autism/Asperger's disorder.

Young Social Skills Group at ABS
This group focuses on the ABCs of social skills for girls and boys with pervasive developmental disorders (PDD) or PDD-like symptoms who experience difficulties in the areas of expressive communication and social interaction.  Through the use of puppets, games, arts and crafts and role play, boys and girls will practice better conversational skills, learn to show interest in others, learn the nuances of verbal and nonverbal communication, develop appropriate assertiveness and cooperative play skills, and learn how to develop and build friendships and relationships. Educational information is also provided to parents to assist their child in social situations, school, and at home.
When: Wednesdays from 3:15 to 4:15 p.m.
Ages: 4-6 (boys and girls).

Social Skills Group at ABS
This group focuses on the ABCs of social skills for girls and boys with PDD or PDD-like symptoms who experience difficulties in the areas of expressive communication and social interaction. Through the use of games, arts and crafts and role play, boys and girls learn better conversational skills, learn the nuances of verbal and nonverbal communication, develop appropriate assertiveness and cooperative play skills, differentiate between being a leader versus a follower, learn appropriate telephone etiquette, and learn how to develop and build friendships and relationships. Educational information is also provided to parents to assist their child in social situations, school, and at home.
When:  Tuesdays from 3:15 to 4:15 p.m.
Ages: seven to 11 (boys and girls).

Teen Social Skills Group at ABS
This group focuses on the ABCs of social skills for teens with PDD or PDD-like symptoms who experience difficulties with expressive communication and social interaction. This group focuses on improving communication, learning more effective ways of handling peer pressure, dealing with siblings and/or family conflict, learning better problem-solving and decision-making skills, exploring issues related to self-image, and learning more effective ways of handling stress in school, family and social situations. Educational information is also provided to parents to assist their teen in social situations, at school and at home.
When: Thursdays from 7 to 8 p.m.
Ages: 12-18 (girls and boys).
Out-of-network provider.
Cost: $140 for intake/assessment.
Cost: $40 per session (for all of the above groups listed).

Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center
Pediatric Developmental Center
3040 N. Wilton, Second Floor
Chicago, IL 60657
(773) 296-5676
Cook County
e-mail: Jennifer.Lira@advocatehealth.com
eight to 12 week social skills groups which target varying levels of skill.
Private and public insurance accepted.

Alexian Brothers Interfaith Parish Support Services
Cheryl Hazek, PsyD, LCSW
25 E. Schaumburg Road, Suite 106
Schaumburg, IL 60194
(847) 230-3771
Cook County
e-mail: interfaithsupport@alexian.net
Social skills group for children with pervasive developmental disorders: autism, Aspergers, and PDD-NOS. Through the use of stories, music, puppets, role-play, arts and crafts, and games, children will learn skills to enhance their relationships and awareness of self in a safe and compassionate environment. Parents receive educational resources and support from their licensed therapists. Periodic parental participation, which is unique to their groups, is essential for continuity of care from home, school, and social environments.
Ages: five-10.
Cost: $25 (initial intake fee); $160 (8 sessions; payment plan available).

Arlington Pediatric Therapy Management Services, Ltd.
Let's Play, taught by: Krista Stewart, Developmental Therapist
3105 N. Wilke Road, Suite H
Arlington Heights, IL 60004-1450
(847) 255-8690, ext. 120
Cook County
Let's play together and make some friends. In this group, there will be a lot of hands on play and learning experiences. A variety of materials and play will be introduced that your child can explore. A multi-sensory approach consists of movement, body awareness, role playing, music, art and sensory exploration.
When: August 3 & 10 from 10-11 a.m. or 3-4 p.m.
Ages: three-six.
Cost: $112.
Class size is limited - please register ASAP.

Other Social Skills Classes available at Arlington Pediatric Therapy:
High School Social Skills Group
This class is geared toward higher functioning autism who are struggling in the area of social skill development with the opportunity to learn about, talk about and practice various social skills. Discussion and role playing will be the emphasis of this class.
When: Meets on Tuesdays from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Cost: $84 (6 weeks).

Sexuality, Relationships and Friendships Program
Contact Mary Beth Mayer at Arlington Pediatric Therapy Management Services, Ltd., ext. 127
Social skills class focuses on how you can feel comfortable talking about your feelings, how appropriate relationships are developed and provides information on sexuality.
When: Meets on Tuesdays, time and date T.B.A.
Ages: 13 and up.
Cost: $100, varies by number of weeks in program.
No wait list.

Asperger Syndrome and Related Disorders Social Skills Group
Diane Gould, LCSW, BCBA
Elena Kaiser, MA, ATR, LCPC
5225 Old Orchard Road, Suite 45
Skokie, IL 60077
(847) 917-5385 (Diane) or (847) 337-2377 (Elena)
Cook County
e-mail: dgould847@aol.com (Diane)
Social skills group for young adults with Asperger Syndrome, PDD, high-functioning autism, and nonverbal learning disabilities. The group will work on social thinking, social skills, friendship and relationship skills, problem solving, communication skills, sexuality, flexibility and stress management. The group will include role playing, social outings, art therapy, relaxation training and hobby/interest sharing.
Ages: 18-24.
Cost: $65 each session. The group should be partially covered by most insurance companies.
No wait list.

The Autism Center for Excellence at Giant Steps Illinois
Life Skills Vocational Program
2500 Cabot Drive
Lisle, IL 60532
(630) 455-5730
DuPage County
Program's goal is to provide an opportunity for 10 adults who have the primary diagnosis of autism, to learn life skills and have meaningful employment. Program will offer two tracks: (1) supported track where individuals work in a sheltered environment within the Autism Training Center; (2) independent track that will offer opportunities for employment in workplace settings with the use of a job coach. Includes community outings to give participants opportunities to develop appropriate recreational and social skills.
Ages: 22 and up.
Private insurace accepted. 
Cost: Please call Giant Steps for more information.
No wait list.

Behavioral Care Associates
Virginia Seng, PhD
Amie Yanover, PsyD
999 Plaza Drive, Suite 300
Schaumburg, IL 60173
(847) 619-1880, ext. 19
Cook County
e-mail: ginseng825@yahoo.com
Social skills group for children and adolescents who have Asperger’s disorder, autism or a nonverbal learning disability who have difficulty reading non-verbal social cues, using pragmatic language (e.g. eye contact, turn taking, maintaining personal space boundaries) and maintaining friendships.
Ages: five-seven (boys), Meets on Thursdays, 4-4:50 p.m. (10-week group).
Ages: eight-10 (boys), Meets on Saturdays, 9-9:50 a.m. (10-week group).
Ages: 11-13 (boys), Meets on Saturdays, 10-10:50 a.m. (10-week group).
Ages: 14-16 (boys), Meets on Saturdays, 11-11:50 a.m. (10-week group).
Ages: 14-16 (boys), Meets on Tuesdays, 7-7:50 p.m. (10-week group).
Private insurance may be accepted.
Cost: $65 per session (50 minutes).
No wait list.

Behavioral Psychology Associates
Virginia M. Seng, PhD
Amie Yanover, PsyD
111 Lions Drive, Suite 220
Barrington, IL  60010
(847) 619-1880, ext. 25
Lake County
Social skills group offered for girls and boys needing assistance with skills related to making and keeping friends. Group focuses on non-verbal cues, strategies for initiating and joining other children, good listening skills, conflict-resolution/problem-solving, and self-monitoring.
When: call for upcoming groups' date amd time.
Private insurance may be accepted.
Cost: $65 per session (50 minutes).
No wait list.

Belle Center of Chicago
Socializing in the Summer
Susan Karr, Program Director
1754 W. Wilson Ave.
Chicago, IL 60640
(773) 878-7868
Cook County
e-mail: susan@bellecenter-chicago.org
Interactive experiences to enhance child's communication, self-esteem, and cooperative play skills through a variety of language, sensory and motor activities. Children will learn the importance of expressing thoughts, feelings and ideas, taking turns, and working within and as part of a group. Led by a speech-language pathologist and occupational therapist.
When: call for upcoming dates for new social groups.
Ages: three-five, Meets on Wednesdays from 10-11 a.m.
five-seven, Meets on Wednesdays from 8:30-9:30 a.m.
seven-nine, Meets on Tuesdays from 3:30-4:30 p.m.
Private and public insurance accepted.
Cost: $450.
No wait list.

Other Social Skills Groups at Belle Center:
Let's Talk and Play!
In this group, communication and language skills will be encouraged and enriched through natural play. Children will have many opportunities to practice using a variety of communication skills for getting along with and playing with others. Turn-taking, as well as negotiating, sharing, giving, and requesting will be emphasized. Led by a speech-pathologist.
When: Meets on Thursdays from 9 to 10 a.m.
Ages: five-six
Private and public insurance accepted.
Cost: $450.
No wait list. 

Play Pals ... Sensory Explorers
Play Pals is a therapeutic group with the overall goal to improve each child's self-confidence and ability to work and play with others. In order to accomplish this goal, the group leader will use multi-sensory art activities, interactive projects, and games designed to assist participants in improving social peer interaction skills, sensory tolerances, processing and modulation abilities, and motor coordination. Led by an occupational therapist.
When: Meets on Thursdays from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m.
Ages: six-eight
Private and public insurance accepted.
Cost: $450.
No wait list.

Cawn/Krantz & Associates, Ltd.
Sherri Cawn, MA, CCC-SLP/L
650 Academy Drive
Northbrook, IL 60062
(847) 480-8890
Cook County
e-mail: sherrislp@cawn-krantz.com
Peer Buddies, a year-round social development group offers an opportunity for preschool-age to teenagers to be successful in developing meaningful, successful, and enjoyable social/play interactions with peers.
Ages: zero-14.
Private insurance accepted.
No wait list.

Charlie's Gift
Center for Autism and Related Disorders
Susan Kahan
1048 W. Ogden Ave., Suite 130
Downers Grove, IL 60521
(630) 810-1200
DuPage County
e-mail: charliesgift@att.net
Offers social skills groups for children through pre-teens. Groups include: "Friendship Clubs" and "Arts and Friends."
Ages: three-18.
Private insurance accepted.
No wait list.

Chatabilities, Ltd.
Social Skills Program: SEE What I'm Saying?
Julie Prato, MA, CCC-SLP
Meg Kwak, PhD
Location: Elmhurst College Speech and Language Clinic
190 Prospect Ave., 210 Circle Hall
Elmhurst, IL 60126
(630) 270-7322
e-mail: julieprato@charitables.com
This group is designed to help kids who are struggling with understanding the unwritten rules of social interactions such as making friends, the art of conversation, understanding of body language, making positive impressions,
Ages: 10-15 (boys and girls).
Cost: $650 (may be covered by insurance). Cost includes 12-hours of therapy, materials and dinner.
No wait list.

Communication Clubhouse
Diane Lee
2901 Finley Road, Suite 102
Downers Grove, IL 60515
(630) 495-6800, ext. 117
DuPage County
Group focus is developing communication and social skills of children with a diagnosis of Asperger’s disorder or autism with established verbal communication skills.
Ages: 18 months to 13 years.
Private and public insurance accepted.
No wait list.

The Art of Play
Group incorporates art as a means of therapeutic intervention for children who have experienced loss or other trauma in life. Situations such as divorce, seperation, etc. are difficult subjects to approach with children. This group opens a dialogue by allowing children to create and then reflect upon the art products and processes to increase their awareness of self and others, cope with anxiety and manage stress.
Where: 2901 Finley Road, Suite 102
Downers Grove, IL 60515
(630) 495-6800, ext. 117
DuPage County
When: call for upcoming dates.
Ages: three-four: Meets on Mondays from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m.
Ages: five-seven: Meets on Mondays from 4:15 to 5:15 p.m.
Cost: call for rates.
Deadline to register: Join at any time.

Slice O'Life
Group offers real life experiences in the community coupled with clinical training. Skills addressed include social referencing in new situations, problem solving and developing situation specific communication styles. This program is an opportunity to practice social skills in a therapeutic beneficial environment.
Where: 2901 Finley Road, Suite 102
Downers Grove, IL 60515
DuPage County
When: Meets on Wednesdays, 4:30-5:30 p.m.
Ages: 11-13.
Cost: call for rates.

The Discovery Clinic
Gene Newton, MA
1306 Waukegan Road
Glenview, IL 60025
(847) 901-0909
Cook County
Social skills groups for children and adolescents with Asperger's disorder that uses specific interests of a child to teach skills that are missing to foster success in life.
six-eight sessions.
Ages: five-18.
Out-of-network provider.
No wait list.

Easter Seals - Metropolitan Chicago
Autism Program Service Center
Katie Hench
1001 W. Roosevelt Road
Chicago, IL 60608
(312) 564-4060
Cook County
e-mail: KHench@eastersealschicago.org
The "Getting Along Social Skills Group" is an eight-week program developed to enhance adaptive social skills in youth with high-functioning autism and Asperger's syndrome. It is run by licensed social workers and a board certified behavior analyst.
When: call for upcoming dates.
Cost: free.

Easter Seals - Rockford and The Autism Program (TAP) Service Center Presents:
Getting Along Social Skills Group
Contact: Lori Davie
Where: Barbara Olsen Center of Hope
3206 N. Central Ave.
Rockford, IL 61101
(815) 395-5566
Winnebago County
e-mail: ldavie@eastersealschicago.org.
This social skills group is a program developed to enhance adaptive social skills in youth with high-functioning autism and Asperger's Syndrome. Group will address: recognizing and regulating emotions, reading non-verbal cues, responding appropriately in conversation, monitoring personal space and understanding social rules.   
Ages: six-nine
Cost: free.

Edgewood Clinical Services, LLC
1288 Rickert Drive, Suite 120
Naperville, IL 60540
(630) 428-7890
DuPage County

2nd Location:
14722 S. Naperville Road, Suite 112
Plainfield, IL 60544
(630) 428-7890
Will County
Social skills group.
When: Meets on Mondays from 5 to 6 p.m.
Ages: eight-10 (boys).
Private insurance accepted.
Possible wait list.

Encouraging Changes Counseling
Aimee Micetic, MA, LCPC
Registered Play Therapist
13717 S. Route 30, Suite 159
Plainfield, IL  60544
(815) 274-3416
Will County
e-mail: amicetic@sbcglobal.net
Interactive social skills group geared toward game play and art projects. Co-leader integrates occupational therapy into group. Download other web site.
Ages: three-five (alternating Tuesdays from 5 to 6 p.m.).
six-eight (alternating Tuesdays from 6 to 7 p.m.).
nine-12 (alternating Wednesdays from 5 to 6 p.m.).
13-15 (alternating Wednesdays from 5 to 6 p.m.).
Private insurance accepted.
Cost: $30 (hourly rate per session).
No wait list.

Have Dreams Park Ridge
Cooking & Conversation
Dana La Brose, MMNA
515 Busse Highway, Suite 150
Park Ridge, IL 60068
(847) 685-0250
Cook County
e-mail: dllabrose@hotmail.com
Cooking activities provide a natural opportunity for practicing social skills, following directions, turn taking, and reading. Games and activities, which promote conversation, comprehension and asking/answering questions, round out the program.
When: Meets on Thursdays from 4:30 to 6 p.m.
Ages: 11-14.
Insurance not accepted.
Cost: $25 (per class).
No wait list.

Other Social Skills Programs at Have Dreams:

Interactive Games and Art Therapy
A center-based program that introduces children to board games, card games and group games. Games are adapted to promote socialization and communication skills.  Adaptations and prompts are faded as children become familiar with and understand the games, enabling them to play the games in other settings. Art is also incorporated in this program, offering children a visual means of self-expression.
Ages:  six-10, Meets on Wednesdays from 4:30 to 6 p.m.
11-14, Meets on Wednesdays from 4:30 to 6 p.m.
Insurance not accepted.
Cost: $25 (per class).
No wait list.

Music and Social Games
Interactive songs and activities will provide the framework to encourage language and social skills.  Skills such as turn taking, waiting, sharing and attending will be practiced.
When: Meets on Tuesdays from 4:30 to 6 p.m.
Ages: five-10.
Insurance not accepted.
Cost: $25 (per class).
No wait list.

Social Skills Program
This is a center-based program in which children are engaged in social learning opportunities and activities.  Thematic units are integrated in each learning center.  Learning centers include games, reading, art, gross motor activities, cooking, and music. Skills such as turn taking, waiting, sharing and attending will all be practiced. Games are adapted to promote socialization and communication skills. Adaptations and prompts are faded as students become familiar with and understand the game concepts, enabling them to play the games in other settings. Cooking activities provide a natural opportunity for practicing social skills, following directions, turn taking, and reading.
Ages: four-seven, Meets on Thursdays from 4:30 to 6 p.m.
six-10, Meets on Mondays from 4:15 to 5:45 p.m.
eight-11, Meets on Mondays from 4:30 to 6 p.m.
Insurance not accepted.
Cost: $25 (per class).
No wait list.

Social Skills Program (2nd Location):
Have Dreams
Dana La Brose, MMNA
Park School
828 Main Street
Evanston, IL 60202
(847) 685-0250
Cook County
e-mail: dllabrose@hotmail.com
This is a center-based program in which children are engaged in social learning opportunities and activities.  Thematic units are integrated in each learning center.  Learning centers include games, reading, art, gross motor activities, cooking, and music. Skills such as turn taking, waiting, sharing and attending will all be practiced. Games are adapted to promote socialization and communication skills. Adaptations and prompts are faded as students become familiar with and understand the game concepts, enabling them to play the games in other settings. Cooking activities provide a natural opportunity for practicing social skills, following directions, turn taking, and reading.
Ages: six-10, Meets on Mondays from 4:30 to 6 p.m.
six-10, Meets on Wednesdays from 4:30 to 6 p.m.
Insurance not accepted.
Cost: $25 (per class).
No wait list.

Pre-Teen Social Group (2nd Location):
Have Dreams
Dana La Brose, MMNA
Park School
828 Main Street
Evanston, IL 60202
(847) 685-0250
Cook County
e-mail: dllabrose@hotmail.com
Each program offers activities to promote social interactions, working cooperatively, and learning new skills. Each week introduces units (units are tailored based on feedback from the teens regarding their interests such as movies, pop music, comic books, etc.), adapted sports and games (kickball, basketball, bean bags, etc.), group language activities, table games, cooking and conversations, and fitness and healthy-living. All activities promote peer relationships, communication, and independence.
When: Meets on Thursdays from 4:30 to 6:00 p.m.
Ages: 10-14.
Insurance not accepted.
Cost: $25 (per class).
No wait list.

Hope Delivery Systems
Summer Social Skills Groups
Inspire Business Center
1016 W. Jackson Blvd.
Chicago, IL 60607
(312) 985-7723
e-mail: info@hopedeliverysystems.com 
Cook County
Focus is on building pre-school/kindegarten skills, sitting and attending to activities, following directions, circle time (calendar, weather, seasons), turn taking/games/play skills, familiarizing children with pre-school songs/nursery rhymes.
Ages: three-five
Focus is on building positive social skills for home, school, and in the community; listening/following directions; positive social behavior; coping skills; feelings identification.
Ages: six-nine
Focus is on building positive social skills for home, school, and in the community; non-verbal communication/reading social cues; feelings identification; coping skills; and problem solving.
Ages: 10-12.
Focus is on building positive social relationships and looking towards the future; friendship skills; coping skills; and interest inventory/future planning for transition from school to work or higher education.
Ages: 13-17.
Private and public insurance not accepted.
Cost: $420 (8-week session). Payment options/plans available.
No current wait list.

KGH Consultation & Treatment, Inc.
Melissa Menn, MSW
3100 Dundee Road, Suite 704
Northbrook, IL 60062
(847) 498-5437 ext. 20
Cook County
e-mail: melissamenn@KGHconsultation.org
Social skills group for students with high-functioning autism/PDD, Asperger's disorder, executive functioning deficits and/or non-verbal learning disability. Goals for this group include enhancing social and relationship development to encourage students to seek support from peers, to facilitate social conversations between students and facilitate social engagement (e.g. small talk) in various age-appropriate activities.
When: Meets on Fridays from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Ages: 10-14.
Insurance not accepted.
Cost: $29 per session.
No wait list. Joint at any time.

Summer Groups at KGH Consultation & Treatment, Inc.
Volcano Group
(847) 498-5437, ext. 12 (to register call Kim).
Does your child have intense feelings and explode like a volcano? This volcano group is appropriate for ADD/ASD or Asperger's students, who need support with anger management, peer conflict, and self-control. This group is facilitated by a licensed OT.
When: Meets on Mondays 5-6 p.m. Begins Monday, June 14 through Friday, August 27, 2010.
Ages: five-10.
BCBS accepted; billable to your insurance.

Post-Summer School & Camp Intensive Program
Parent & Child Training Intensive
Comprehensive parent & child training program educates and empowers parents to feel and be more successful with their child with ASD, developmental delay and/or behavior problems. This program meets for 3 hours per day for 5 days. The first 1 - 1 1/2 hour your child is in a session with a behavior specialist as the parent(s) are receiving course content. The remainder of the time will be spent actively coaching the parents to help them create successful interactions with their child, eliminate problematic behavior, increase positive behavior as well as promote independence with your child.
When: August 2-6; August 9-13; August 16-20.
Ages: two-five
On The Town
On the Town is a great program for children, who have social skill knowledge and have had practice with relationship and social development in structured settings but who would benefit from support in applying these skills to natural community environments more consistently.
Meets: one time per week for 1-1 1/2 hours, depending on the community activity. Parents are asked to drop off and pick up their children at the outing location and willbe asked to pay for any tickets or entrace fees required. A schedule of the outings will be given at the first social group. This group is facilitated by a Licensed Clinical Social Worker.
When: Thursdays, 5:30-6:30.
Ages: eight-16
Life Skills & Leisure Program
This intensive program is for Pre-Teens and Teens who would benefit from a small group improving important life skills such as developing leisure skills, chores such as laundry (on site washer/dryer), reading & using money, etc. This program meets for two hours per day for five days. Pre-Teens and Teens will be introduced to a variety of age-appropriate social leisure skills as well as community outings to practice their taught life skills in the natural setting.  Parents are asked to drop off and pick up their child at the outing location and will be asked to pay for any tickets or entrace fees required. A schedule of the outings will be given when registering for the program. Led by a Licensed Clinical Social Worker.
When: Week of August 2-6
Week of August 9-13
Week of August 16-20
Ages: six-18
Let's Get Organized!
This program is a great opportunity for Pre-Teens and Teens to take responsibility, with a little support, to independently prepare and organize for their upcoming school year. Students will go shopping to collect supplies, organize their supplies as well as create an effective organizational system for their backpack and homework. Age appropriate visual schedules/calendars will be introduced and practiced. 2 hours, 3 times during the week.
When: Week of August 2-6
Week of August 9-13
Week of August 16-20
Ages: eight-18.

Kids Communicate
Contact: Bridgette Nicholson
Where: Streamwood, IL
Cook County
e-mail: bnicholson@customsolutions.us
Social skills group for children who have Aspergers or high functioning autism. The group is also for children who have challenges with verbal and/or written communication, but good intelligence. The group will focus on written/verbal communication and social interaction/social skills. Sessions will involve the following activities: exercise warm-up with music, drama, role play and acting, writing, creating PowerPoint presentations and giving presentations, creating videos and playing. Group leader is an OT and has 25 years of dealing with students who have special needs. Learn more.
When: call for upcoming date and time.
Ages: Grades three-six.
Cost: free.

Kreider Services, Inc.
Laura Watters
P.O. Box 366
Dixon, IL 61021
(815) 288-6691, ext. 226
What is the definition of bullying? What are the different types of bullying? What do I do if I experience bullying? They are looking for children first grade and above with an autism spectrum disorder or their peers who might be interested in a six-week social skills group addressing the issues of bullying. If your child is interested in participating in this type of group on a Monday or Thursday late afternoon this Fall, please contact Laura Watters with the following: child's name, date of birth, gender, and grade level as well as the best way to reach you with more detailed information in the future.

Learning Through Play Center for Child Development
Staff includes: BCBA, Art/Music Therapists, DTs, LSW, LCPC
633 W. Addison
Chicago, IL 60613
(312) 458-9865 or (773) 615-3202
Cook County
Social Engagement Playgroup: uses music and art to motivate children to participate in group activities, learn to communicate with others, and gain confidence in social situations. This class is for children with autism, sensory dysfunction, or social/language deficits.
Meets on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 9 to 11 a.m.

Structured Developmental Playgroup: uses specific strategies to help children transition easily from one activity to the next. This class is for children who are high-functioning ASD/PDD or developmental delays.
Meets on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 to 11 a.m.
Ages: two-five
Insurance not accepted.
Cost: see web site or call for info.
No wait list.

Life Team Partners, LLC
Brian R. King, LCSW
Allison Cotton, LCSW
1601 Bond Street, Suite 300
Naperville, IL 60563
(630) 995-9559
DuPage County
Specialized groups for children and adolescents with Asperger's disorder to enhance social-emotional awareness and promote relationship skills that are customized to their unique strengths and needs.
Boys' Elementary: (fourth to fifth graders): Meets on Mondays from 3:45 to 4:45 p.m. or Saturdays, 1-2:30 p.m. (eight weeks)
Boys' Jr. High: Meets on Wednesdays from 6:30 to 8 p.m. (eight weeks)
Boys' High School: Meets on Thursdays from 6:30 to 8 p.m. (eight weeks)
Girls' Middle School: Meets on Thursdays from 6:30 to 8 p.m.
Girls' High School: Meets on Saturdays from 3 to 4:30 p.m.
Young Women's Group, Women's Groups
Insurance not accepted.
Cost: $40 per session.
No wait list.

Little Friends Center for Autism, Inc
Friendship Groups
Contact: Mary Crissman
1001 E. Chicago Ave., Suite 151
Naperville, IL 60540
(630) 305-4196
DuPage County
Social skills group addressing children with high-functioning autism, PDD, or Asperger's disorder. Group works on basic friendship skills (such as using eye contact, greeting others, taking turns, and practicing conversation) and social skills with a lot of individualized attention. The group will include games and snacks.
When: Meets on Mondays from 3:45 to 4:45 p.m.
three age groups: five-six
10-12 (boys)
13-15
Insurance not accepted.
Cost: $360 (six sessions).
Possible wait list. To apply, download application and mail to LFCA, Attn: Kelly Ronan at the above address.

Summer Social Skills Group at Little Friends (*NEW GROUPS*)
Play Group
Focus: Meeting and making new friends, sharing, turn taking, waiting turns, and following simple rules while having fun with friends. Each week will start with a snack, and playing a board game before moving to Therapy Gym for focused playtime.
When: Mondays, starting June 14-July 19 from 2-3 p.m..
Ages: four-five (boys and girls).
Cost: $360 (due first day of class).

Detective in Training
Focus: During this course of this group, participants will identify five different facial expressions, what makes them feel that emotion, how others might feel, and what they can do when they feel that emotion. Each week the children will receive a booklet on the feeling explored and homework to do with their parent. A snack will be provided for each detective.
When: Mondays, June 14-July 19 from 3:30-4:30 p.m.
Ages: nine1/2-12 (boys and girls).
Cost: $360 (due first day of class).

Friendship Group
Focus: Participants will learn the fundamental skills of having friends over for a play date. Using teh video series "Model Me Kids," they will discuss and practice greeting friends, playing a game by different rules, sharing, staying with a friend, cleaning up, winning and losing, etc. The children will make a simple snack. Sessions end with the playing of a board game.
Ages: eight-10 (boys and girls).
Cost: $360 (due first day of class).

Teen Social Group
Structured group utilizing the Social Thinking concepts in which participants learn how to communicate effectively in a supportive social environment. Activities will include role play, video modeling, and community outings.
Ages: 13-16, 5-7 (boys and girls).
When: Tuesdays & Thursdays, from 10-11 a.m.
Cost: $720 (must be paid in ful before group begins).

Ann Maxwell, PhD
125 S. East Ave.
Oak Park, IL 60302
(708) 383-3480
Cook County
e-mail: apmaxwell@sbcglobal.net
Ages: three-18.
Provides social skills groups.
Private insurance accepted.
No wait list.

North Shore Pediatric Therapy
1308 Waukegan Road, Glenview, IL 60025,
Cook County
1700 W. Cortland, Chicago, IL 60622, Cook County
1442 Old Skokie Rd., Highland Park, IL 60035,
Lake County
(877) 486-4140
e-mail: info@nspt4kids.com
Provides social skills groups.
Ages: varies.
Out-of-network provider.
Cost: $144.
No wait list.

Potanos and Associates
Social Skills Groups
Jenny Potanos, MA, CCC/SLP-L
1N031 Coventry Drive
Wheaton, IL 60188
(630) 510-8021
DuPage County
e-mail: jpotanos@speakeasy.net
Cosley Zoo Play Camp
Ages: preschool to 3rd grade (summer group-seven weeks, two hrs., once per week).
Bowling with Friends
Ages: third grade to middle school (summer group-seven weeks, two hrs., once per week).
Integrated Play Groups
Ages: zero-18 (group meets all year long).
Insurance not accepted.
Cost: varies; will work with families on this. 
Possible wait list.

Rush NeuroBehavioral Center
4711 W. Golf Road, Suite 1100
Skokie, IL 60076
(847) 933-9339
Cook County
e-mail: info@rnbc.org
Ages: four-17.
Provides children with specific social skills necessary for developing successful and long-lasting social relationships. Children will be grouped with peers of the same age and who demonstrate similar social concerns.
Insurance not accepted.
Rates available upon request.
Wait list varies. Groups available throughout the year.

Social Skills Group for Young Adults
Linda Hoeck, MA, Autism Consultant
1641 Crowfoot Cir N
Hoffman Estates, IL 60169
(224) 489-6464
Cook County
e-mail: lhoeck@comcast.net
Who can join the group? Young adults (high school graduates) with social skill challenges (typically diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder) who would like to participate in the program. Targeted skills include: flexibility, self-determination, daily responsibility, conversation skills, relationships, problem solving and self-disclosure.
Cost: $210 (for eight weeks).
Space is limited to provide a small group experience.   

Genevieve Thorton, PsyD
899 Skokie Blvd., Suite 204
Northbrook, IL 60062
(847) 559-3240
Cook County
Social perspective-taking group that focuses on behavior and how it impacts others.
When: Meets Thursdays and Fridays, time varies.
Ages: two-18.
Private insurance accepted.
No wait list.

Social Thinking Therapeutic Group for Teenage Girls
Social skills group for teen girls who have a diagnosis of Asperger's syndrome or non-verbal learning disability. Group will benefit from learning perspective taking skills and opportunities to practice skill acquisition in a supportive therapeutic environment.
When: Meets on Thursdays at 5:30 p.m. (10 weeks).
Ages: 14-18.
five person maximum.
Scholarships available.

Starnet Region IV
Family Matters Parent Training
and Information Center and
IL Autism Training and Technical
Assistance Project
Present: Carol Gray
Where: Westview Baptist Church
2500 Sullivan Drive
Swansea, IL 62226
618-233-7474 for directions only
St. Clair County
When: Friday September 24, 2010
Social Stories and Comic Strip Conversation and Saturday September 25, 2010 Friendship, Bullying and People with ASD from 9:00 A.M.-3:00 P.M.
Cost: There will be a fee of $20 per person to attend both workshops on September 24 and 25. The fee will remain $20/person even for a one day attendance.
Please make check payable to Family Matters PTIC.
Mail BOTH payment and registration form to
Starnet Region IV
1000 S. Illinois Street
Belleville, IL 62220
For questions, please call Sheri at 618-825-3969

TMS Psychological Services, PC
Facilitated by: Erin Marek, PsyD and Helen Jonas, MA
1515 N. Harlem Ave., Suite 304
Oak Park, IL 60302
(708) 383-3405, ext. 10
Cook County
e-mail: stafftms@sbcglobal.net
Social skills group designed for children who have difficulty communicating and getting along with their peers or siblings. It will help children build skills in a variety of areas including: communication and listening, understanding boundaries and personal space, friendship building and peer interactions, cooperation and teamwork, problem solving, and management of frustration and anger.
When: Meets once a week for six to eight weeks.
Ages: eight-12.
Private insurance accepted.
Cost: $50 per session.
No wait list.

Other Social Skills Groups Offered at TMS:

Emotion Management (including Anger) Group
Facilitated by: Erin Marek, PsyD and Helen Jonas, MA
Group is designed for children who have difficulty managing emotions and using appropriate ways to express feelings (including anger). Group will help children build skills in a variety of areas including: recognition and communication (both verbal and nonverbal) of feelings, cooperation, good sportsmanship, problem solving, and management of frustration.
Group meets once a week for six to eight weeks.
Ages: group designed for children and/or teens.
Private insurance accepted.
Cost: $50 per session.
No wait list.

Creative Skills Group
Facilitated by Daniel Kelly, PsyD
Group's focus is to facilitate emotional growth and self-awareness through creative and artistic expression. The skills acquired in this group will lead to more effective emotional regulation and social interaction. Participants are challenged to engage in self-exploration and gain a deeper understanding of themselves, while witnessing and supporting similar experiences in other group members.  
When: Meets once a week for six to eight weeks.
Ages: group designed for children, teens, or adults.
Private insurance accepted.
Cost: $50 per session.
No wait list.

Wii Based Social Skills Group
Facilitated by: Daniel Kelly, PsyD
Group's focus is to help children understand how to create, nurture, and sustain quality relationships. The creation of these relationships will be facilitated by a shared interest in the Wii. Problem solving, confliction resolution, de-escalation and sharing will be targeted as specific skills to be established through the group experience.
When: Meets once a week for six to eight weeks.
Ages: eight-12 (boys and girls).
Private insurance accepted.
Cost: $50 per session.
No wait list.

Transitions Developmental Therapy, PC
Bianca D. Rodriguez, DT
225 Enterprise Drive, Suite 2505
Westchester, IL 60154
(708) 296-5990
DuPage County
Group focuses on building and developing social skills.
Ages: three-18.
Private insurance accepted.
No wait list.

Trinity Services Autism and Family Resource Center
Nancy Samardzic
13318 W. Lincoln Highway
New Lenox, IL 60451
(815) 462-4273
Will County
Ages: two-18.
Empirically-based interventions are used to teach social skills to small groups of individuals with similar needs. The parent training component allows parents/guardians to promote generalization of the targeted skills.
Insurance not accepted.
Sliding scale fee available.
No wait list.

Turning Point Behavioral Health
Lori Gerber
8324 Skokie Blvd.
Skokie, IL 60077-2545
(847) 933-0051, ext. 461
Cook County
Asperger's disorder group focuses on building and developing social skills.
Private and public insurace accepted.
Possible wait list.

University of Illinois Institute for Juvenile Research Developmental Disabilities Clinic
Lana Roth, LCSW
1747 W. Roosevelt Road
Chicago, IL 60608
(312) 413-4624
Cook County
Age group and duration of social skills groups vary.
Private and public insurance accepted.
three-six month wait list.

WEE Speech, PC
Laura Drower, Julie Levin
8833 Gross Point Road
Skokie, IL 60077
(847) 329-8226
Cook County
e-mail: info@weespeech.com
Back to School social language group provides children with fun opportunities to experience peer relationships in a positive and supportive environment. Groups are run by a team of professionals, including a licensed speech-language pathologist and social worker. Small groups are designed to help children navigate through building peer relationships, integrate their speech and language skills in a social setting, and form lasting friendships with other children.
When: Groups will begin in September and will last for eight consecutive weeks.
Ages: 2-10.
BCBS provider. Credentialed early intervention program.
No wait list.

Youth Services of Glenview
Sara Mischler, LCPC
3100 W. Lake Ave.
Glenview, IL 60025
(847) 724-2620
Cook County
Social skills group for children and adolescents with non-verbal learning disability and/or Asperger's disorder. Children in the explorers program engage in a wide variety of activities designed to enhance their social outlets as well as build their ability to navigate peer interactions. Explorer kids work with staff from youth services to develop social goals and evaluate and modify these goals after every activity.
Explorer Groups meet year round, two Saturdays a month.
Age Groups: Grades three through five
Grades six through eight
Grades nine through 12
Insurance not accepted.
Cost: $300 (six sessions).
Wait list: grades three through five.

Although our Web site includes links providing direct access to other Internet sites, the Autism Resource Center at Rush University takes no responsibility for the content or information contained on those other sites, and does not exert any editorial or other control over those other sites.

The information on this Web site is provided for general reference purposes. It does not constitute medical or other professional advice and should not be used as a substitute for the medical care and advice of your child and adolescent psychiatrist or other physician. Only a qualified, licensed physician can determine the individual treatment that is appropriate for your particular circumstances. All decisions about clinical care should be made in consultation with a physician. Inclusion of information on this Web site does not constitute an endorsement of views, persons, methodologies or products. The health care providers whose information is available on the Web site are not necessarily the agents or employees of Rush University Medical Center. In consideration for use of this Web site, Rush University Medical Center or any other party involved in producing or delivering this Web site will not be liable to you for any action or nonaction that you take in reliance upon the information provided on this Web site.

Autism is a complex disorder. Our Web site provides information and resources for families with a child with autism. If you feel your child is experiencing behavior and/or symptoms that may be associated with autistic spectrum disorders, please contact your pediatrician or a licensed physician. A comprehensive evaluation may be needed from a psychologist, neurologist, psychiatrist, speech therapist and other professionals.

The Autism Resource Center's referral and resource list is not an all-inclusive list and is subject to change. Each day the team will be adding new resources and building to our Web site. If you have trouble finding a referral within your area, we encourage you to call (312) 563-2272 for further information. We hope that you visit our Web site again for any future referrals.