Free Workshop: Building Social Confidence & Peer Relationships

Not at all. This workshop is open to any 5th – 8th graders interested in learning more about social skill building. Whether you’ve been in therapy before or are just starting to explore what building friendship looks like, you’re welcome here.

Participants are typically 5th-8th grade students from across the Triangle who want to feel more confident navigating friendships and social situations. Some are naturally shy, while others feel overwhelmed by peer dynamics, struggle to join conversations, or find it difficult to read social cues. Many simply want practical tools to help them communicate more comfortably, build meaningful friendships, and feel more confident being themselves. They’ll join a small group of peers who are learning and practicing these same skills in a supportive, encouraging environment.

Only if you want to. This isn’t a therapy session where you’re expected to open up about your private life. It’s a skills-based workshop focused on reflection, discussion, and practice. You’re welcome to participate at your comfort level — listening quietly or joining in conversation. Many people find it encouraging to hear others’ experiences, but there’s never pressure to share.

Participants will spend the morning learning practical strategies for building social confidence and strengthening peer relationships. Through structured activities, guided discussions, and interactive practice, they’ll explore topics like starting conversations, reading social cues, managing awkward moments, and handling social challenges with greater confidence. There will be short breaks throughout the workshop, and each participant will leave with practical tools and strategies they can begin using at school, at home, and in everyday social situations.

Not exactly. This workshop uses therapeutic principles, but it’s not a substitute for individual or group therapy. Instead, think of it as a focused learning experience led by therapy interns under licensed supervision. You’ll walk away with insights you can apply in your daily life — and if you decide you’d like to explore therapy afterward, our team can help connect you to the right therapist.

We intentionally keep this workshop small — usually between 10 and 15 participants — so there’s space for meaningful conversation and personal reflection. Spots tend to fill quickly, so early registration is encouraged.

We understand that life happens. If something comes up, please email or call us to let us know as soon as possible so we can offer your spot to someone else on the waitlist. You’ll still be the first to know about future workshops.

No homework, but you’ll receive optional handouts and reflection prompts to keep exploring on your own. Many participants like to continue practicing what they learned through journaling or sharing insights with friends or partners.

We recommend bringing a notebook or journal for personal reflection, a pen, and a willingness to explore new ways of caring for yourself. Light snacks and water will be provided.

The workshop takes place in our Durham office, conveniently located for participants coming from Raleigh, Cary, and Chapel Hill. We offer free on-site parking and easy access to nearby restaurants and coffee shops if you’d like to grab something before or after.

Click the “Reserve Your Spot” button on this page to sign up. You’ll fill out a quick form with your name, contact information, and confirmation that you plan to attend. We’ll send you a reminder email with details and directions the week before the event.

Yes! The skills you’ll learn complement any therapy model or counseling relationship. You can share your insights with your therapist afterward to deepen your ongoing work.