Therapy
Social Skills Training
Where a condition has eroded confidence or day-to-day functioning, the route back is usually practice rather than advice. Social skills training is structured, graded rehearsal of the ordinary interactions that study, work and social life are built from.
May be recommended or referred
Overview
What it is
Structured practice of conversation, everyday interaction and self-care skills.
Supports a return to study, work and social life where a condition has affected confidence or day-to-day functioning.
In practice
What a session involves
The work is broken down and rehearsed rather than discussed in the abstract: starting and holding a conversation, making and taking a phone call, asking for something, handling an interview or a first day back, managing everyday self-care and routine. Sessions use role-play and agreed practice outside, with the difficulty increasing only as each step becomes comfortable.
Suitability
Who it tends to suit
- Schizophrenia, where functioning has narrowed during or after an episode
- Autism spectrum disorder, alongside other support
- Social anxiety, alongside exposure work
- Anyone returning to study or work after a long period away
What it does not do
Stated plainly, because a page that lists only benefits is an advertisement rather than an explanation.
- It does not change someone's personality, and it is not meant to
- Progress is gradual and depends on practice outside sessions
- It does not substitute for treating the underlying condition
Commonly used for
Conditions this is used in
- Schizophrenia
- Autism spectrum disorder
- Social anxiety
This approach may be recommended as part of your care. Where it is not provided at the clinic itself, a referral can be arranged — the consultation will tell you which applies.
Questions
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about social skills training and how it fits with the rest of your care.
Is this about becoming more outgoing?
No. It is about having the practical skills available when you want them. Being quiet is a temperament, not a symptom, and this is not an attempt to change it.
Is it only for young people?
No. It is used at any age, most often when someone is returning to work or study after a period away, or after an episode of illness.
Is it done in a group?
It can be, and group practice has advantages. What is available depends on the clinic's arrangements at the time, which the consultation will tell you.
Appointments
Ask whether this approach suits you
Dr. Manchikalapudi Tirumala Babu consults at Maruthi Hospital and Diagnostics, Guntur. Call the clinic to request an appointment and talk through the options.
Consulting hours are Monday to Saturday, 6:00–9:00 PM, by appointment. This website does not confirm bookings on its own — the clinic confirms a time with you.