Breaking Social Barriers: Enhancing Confidence with Autism Support - w/Karla Gragg and Sarah Bailey

Tony welcomes sisters Sarah Bailey and Karla Cragg, who share a passion for enhancing the social lives of individuals with autism. They introduce their Breaking Social Barriers PEERS program, an evidence-based social skills training course designed specifically for young adults on the autism spectrum. Their program is based on UCLA’s acclaimed PEERS treatment model, the only research-backed method proven to help young adults with autism form and maintain meaningful friendships.

Sarah and Karla provide an inside look at their curriculum, which offers practical strategies for entering, maintaining, and exiting conversations—along with other essential social skills that set individuals up for success. They emphasize the importance of honoring autistic individuals' authenticity while equipping them with the social tools they may need.

The conversation also explores key topics such as the differences between autism and highly sensitive person (HSP) traits, the impact of diagnosis and labeling, and the increasing demand for targeted social skills training.

Tune in to discover how Sarah and Karla’s approach is making a profound difference in the lives of autistic individuals—whether formally diagnosed or self-identified.

Learn more about their evidence-based programs at BreakingSocialBarriers.com.

00:00 Welcome to the Virtual Couch

01:11 Diving into Autism Awareness

02:22 Carla's Journey into Autism Education

05:31 Introducing the Peers Program

08:27 Navigating Social Skills for Young Adults

12:44 Understanding Autism and Neurodiversity

20:43 Navigating Social Interactions with High Functioning Autism

21:27 Teaching the Art of Trading Information

23:30 The Importance of Evidence-Based Social Skills Programs

25:18 Addressing Loneliness and Social Isolation

26:24 Course Structure and Content

29:43 Role Playing and Practical Applications

35:56 Enhancing Authentic Social Interactions

38:29 Conclusion and Contact Information