In-Network

Social Skills Group: Group Facilitator

Course Overview
The Social Skills Group: Group Facilitator course is designed to equip clinicians with evidence-based strategies and practical techniques to effectively facilitate social skills groups. This course will enable you to gain insights into the unique social experiences of autistic individuals and learn how to ensure that your treatment practices are rooted in anti-ableist principles.

Throughout the course, you will master the process of writing session agendas and selecting activities that align with clients' goals, needs, and interests. You will also explore evidence-based facilitation techniques, including the use of Behavioral Skills Training, rapport building, and strategies for navigating challenging conversations. By the end, you'll be empowered to provide constructive, compassionate care while fostering meaningful social development.

Facilitator listens intently to group of children communicating

Course Details

Course Details

Course Info

1 self-paced fully virtual course

1 quiz

Level: Intermediate

Program Duration: 3 hours

Price: Complementary for Catalight Care Service in-network practitioners.

Exam Details

Learning Objectives

Participants will be able to:

  • Identify best practices for: (1) the role of a group facilitator, (2) setting up an ideal group environment, and (3) teaching socialization skills to autistic individuals while avoiding ableism.
  • Identify the key components of a session agenda and select activities that effectively align with the group's goals and interests within a given scenario.
  • Apply evidence-based facilitation techniques to promote meaningful interaction and skill development in social skills group settings.
  • Demonstrate the ability to navigate a tough conversation with a supervisor, client, or caregiver using the 4-Step Feedback Model within a given scenario.
Continuing Education

Continuing Education

Credits for eligible participants:

3 APA
3 BACB
3 CAMFT
3 OT
3 SLP

More information

Who Should Take This Course?

  • BCBA, LMFT, Pyschologist, RBT, LPCC, SLP.

Prerequisites

  • None (Foundations of Neurodiversity recommended)
Certificate illustrated art

Course

Pricing

Member Price: Complementary for Catalight Care Service in-network practitioners.

For more information on our refund, accommodation and other related policies, please see our policy page.

Course Content Developers and Instructors

Headshot of Jennifer Ikola

Jennifer Ikola, BCBA
Instructor

Credentials

  • MS, Psychology with emphasis in Applied Behavior Analysis, Kaplan University
  • BS, Health Sciences emphasis in Pre-Medicine, California Baptist University

Disclosures: None.

Current Position

  • Clinical Manager - Catalight
Headshot of Lindsey Sneed

Lindsey Sneed, Ph.D., BCBA-D
Developer and Instructor

Degrees/Credentials

  • Licensed Psychologist #PSY34154
  • Ph.D., Clinical Psychology, Walden University
  • MS, Applied Psychology, Walden University
  • MS, Educational Counseling, National University
  • BA, Counseling Psychology, William Jessup University
  • RUBI Certified

Disclosures: None.

Current Position

  • Vice President of Clinical Excellence, Catalight
  • Adjunct Professor, University of San Francisco

Course Outcomes

  • This course provides a comprehensive overview of evidence-based strategies for designing and facilitating social skills groups for individuals with autism. Learners will explore best practices for teaching both general and autism-specific social skills, with a focus on effective group structure, curriculum selection, and alignment with individual goals. Emphasis will be placed on integrating personalized objectives within standardized group frameworks and selecting developmentally appropriate activities that promote positive group engagement. The course also covers key facilitation techniques, including supporting natural conversation, managing silence, and addressing challenges related to group dynamics. Additionally, learners will develop skills in professional communication with supervisors, clients, and caregivers to support collaborative and goal-aligned care.