In addition to her professional experience, Ms. Popper is uniquely qualified to teach this program as she is the parent of a successful high functioning ASD son who has graduated from California State University of Long Beach and holds a full-time career as a Key Account Manager. Social Skills Development Center was started by Ms. Popper in response to the need for a center to teach important social skills to individuals lacking the ability to do so innately. Her personal experience working with school districts, teachers, and navigating the IEP process comforts the scores of parents who have taken her classes. Her willingness to share her experiences and resources makes her a valuable resource to the community.
According to Ms. Popper, “Adequate social skills therapy for socially awkward children, teens and young adults is hard to find today. In order to succeed later in life, many of these individuals need to be taught the skills necessary to thrive in their own social networks, educational arenas, and employment fields. Unfortunately, services are geared towards the more profoundly disabled student and high functioning individuals are not given the opportunity to learn these important life skills and techniques in school. We have found that once our students are taught the techniques we present and apply them to their everyday life, we see a huge improvement in their whole outlook on home and social environments. Not only does the student’s self-esteem improve, but most parents also report that their social life increases two-fold. No longer are they sitting in front of a computer screen or video game, they are socially engaged with others and enjoying the process. We are proud to be a part of that growth and are excited to share this evidence-based program with you.”
Ms. Popper is active in the community serving as past President for the Guild for Infant Survival, Orange County and serves as current Chairperson for the Angel of Hope located in Lake Forest. She has three successful adult children, two cats and is currently training a Golden Retriever, Tucker, to work in her therapy practice.
Associations:
- CAMFT
- Psi Chi
- Phi Kappa Phi