Social Skills Squad
Helping Kids Shine, One Skill at a Time
Every child deserves to feel confident, connected, and understood. At AWARE’s Social Skills Squad in Helena, Montana, we’re here to guide your child through life’s social challenges with care and compassion. Let’s build skills together for brighter tomorrows.
Reach Out to Learn More
Hope Deschamps
Email: hdeschamps@aware-inc.org
Nancy Meinhardt
Email: nmeinhardt@aware-inc.org
Diane Black
Email: dblack@aware-inc.org
SERVICE LOCATIONS
Program Overview
What Is the Social Skills Squad?
The Social Skills Squad is a welcoming space where middle and high school students can grow socially and emotionally. Over six engaging sessions, kids learn skills to help them navigate friendships, manage emotions, and approach life with confidence.
- Location: 347 N Last Chance Gulch, Helena, MT 59601
- Cost: $210
- Inclusive Options: While designed for middle and high schoolers, we’re happy to explore options for younger kids—just ask!
Our dedicated team of professionals ensures every child feels supported and valued as they build skills for lasting success.
Key Benefits
Helping Your Child Build Confidence and Connections
If your child struggles with:
- Making or keeping friends,
- Feeling nervous in group settings,
- Understanding social cues,
- Managing emotions like frustration or worry,
- Resolving conflicts or communicating effectively
We’re here to help. The Social Skills Squad is designed to nurture confidence, encourage connection, and empower kids to thrive in every aspect of their lives.
Program Details
Growing Together, One Step at a Time
We believe in meeting kids where they are and helping them flourish at their own pace. Our sessions are tailored to the unique needs of each group:
- Middle School Group: Building foundational social skills, exploring emotions, and fostering empathy.
- High School Group: Strengthening communication, navigating online spaces safely, and mastering conflict resolution.
Not sure if the program fits your child’s age? Reach out—we’ll work together to find the right option!
Meet Our Caring Team
Experts Who Make Learning Fun
At AWARE, we believe every child deserves understanding and support. Meet the compassionate professionals who bring this mission to life:
Diane Black, LBA, BCBA
Licensed Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (ABA)
Diane has worked for AWARE for 9 years. She is the Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Service Director with over 34 years of experience working with individuals with autism and developmental disabilities. Diane brings a vast array of skills , knowledge and experience to AWARE. She oversees the ABA services in our residential homes, our AWARE school (Center for Excellence), and our community programs.
Hope Deschamps, LBA, BCBA
Licensed Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (LBA, BCBA)
Hope has been with AWARE for a little over 1 year. Before she came to AWARE, Hope was a behavior intervention specialist in the Helena School District. Hope has previous experience running social skills groups within AWARE as well as the school environment. She has experience working with children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, autism spectrum disorder, anxiety, depression, and many other diagnoses.
Nancy Meinhardt, BCBA
Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA)
Nancy has been with AWARE for almost 2 years. Before working with AWARE, Nancy worked with children within East Helena School District. Nancy has previous experience running social skills groups within AWARE as well as the school environment. She has experience working with children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, autism spectrum disorder, anxiety, depression, and many other diagnoses.
Together, we’re here to make every session meaningful and engaging for your child.
How to Join
Conveniently located in Helena, Montana—serving our community with care and commitment.
We’re Here When You’re Ready
We know it can be hard to take the first step, but we’re here to make it easy. Complete our simple contact form, and we’ll get in touch to discuss how the Social Skills Squad can support your child.
Hope Deschamps
Email: hdeschamps@aware-inc.org
Nancy Meinhardt
Email: nmeinhardt@aware-inc.org
Diane Black
Email: dblack@aware-inc.org
