08/28/2026
Are you or your Neurodivergent Teen looking for social opportunities that meet several times a week and can be attended at their leisure over the course of the month instead of having to take a chance on a group that only meets once a week at a very specific time?
We would like to introduce Essential Counseling's Teen Social Group Bundle! This form will help us learn more about your teen's interests, social goals, and scheduling.
Complete the questionnaire
here ⤵️
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1hxctaMNS1pU_SXx1AOZpM695IxAAa9m3FTMe1xOiCn8/viewform?edit_requested=true
What to expect:
Autonomy with social support and engagement
There will be 6-7 different rooms with each of the top chosen activities set up in them. Participants are free to choose where they want to spend their time and move between spaces as they feel comfortable.
Who runs the group? Two master level interns (Emily and Tara) from UNC are the group facilitators, supporting and encouraging clients as needed. Both operate under the direct supervision and guidance of Leon Monroe, LCSW, practice owner.
What topics are addressed? peer-to-peer socialization, conversation improvisation, identity, confidence and healthy coping strategies, including managing emotion states and interpersonal resolution.
• How are teens supported? We provide a safe, independent space designed particularly for adolescents (including neurodivergent teens) to interact with peers, explore their identities, and de-stress.
Logistics & Schedule
Where are meetings held? At the Essential Counseling office: 5716 Fayetteville Rd #202, Durham, NC 27713 (located near Southpoint Mall).
What days and times? Tentative meeting days are Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. Each session runs for approximately 2 hours each group, incorporating downtime and sensory-calming activities. Schedules may adjust based on participant needs.
Is attendance mandatory for every group? No. We plan to offer 3–4 sessions per week, and participants have the flexibility to attend as many or as few as they prefer.
How many participants will there be? Approximately 10 teens, though participation will vary based on flexible scheduling.
Cost & Insurance
How much does it cost? We offer flexible pricing options
o Unlimited weekly pass: $60 per week for unlimited access to all groups (up to 6 hrs per week!)
o Monthly unlimited pass: $240 per month paid at the beginning of the month (offers an additional discount). Less than $10 an hour for up to 24 hours of social group experiences.
• Does insurance cover the group? While insurance cannot cover the full all-access program duration, it can help reduce overall costs. We accept Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, and the State Health Plan.
Contact Information.
• How do I sign up or ask questions?
Contact us [email protected] or call (919) 748-4610.
Don’t forget to complete the questionnaire here ⤵️
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1hxctaMNS1pU_SXx1AOZpM695IxAAa9m3FTMe1xOiCn8/viewform?edit_requested=true
Our groups are always 🏳️🌈LGBTQIA+ affirming and 😁Neurodiverse-affirming🎉
For more information on what that means, click the following links:
https://www.therapyessential.com/lgbtqia-affirming-therapy
https://www.therapyessential.com/neurodiverse-affirming-therapy
Neurodiverse-affirming therapy at Essential Counseling in Durham is an approach that recognizes and celebrates the unique experiences of being neurodivergent. Unlike traditional therapies that often pressure individuals to conform to neurotypical standards this therapy focuses on unmasking and embra...
