Counselor in Training (CIT) Program

for Teens with Autism

A leadership and job-readiness program designed to build confidence, responsibility, and real-world skills.

The Kids Like Me Counselor in Training (CIT) Program is a structured leadership opportunity for teens ages 13–17 who are interested in developing job skills, building confidence, and gaining hands-on experience in a supportive after-school environment. Participants work alongside experienced staff, strengthen communication and teamwork skills, and learn what it takes to be a successful youth leader.

This program is ideal for teens who are ready to take on greater responsibility while continuing to grow socially, independently, and professionally. Through mentoring younger participants and assisting with daily after-school activities, CITs gain valuable leadership experience while making a positive impact on their peers and community.

Apply now

What Participants Gain

Leadership and teamwork skills
Real-world job exposure
Increased independence and responsibility
Confidence in communication and peer interaction
Mentorship from experienced Help Group staff
CITs play an active role in supporting daily program activities, assisting younger participants, and developing leadership skills through structured training and hands-on experience.

Details

Session Dates:
September 14 – December 10 (12-Week Session)

Program Hours:
Arrival: 2:45 PM (snack & supervised free time)
CIT Activities & Leadership Responsibilities: 3:30 PM – 4:30 PM
Pick-Up: By 4:45 PM

Step 1: Choose Your CIT Schedule
CIT participants attend the program on a consistent weekly schedule for the full 12-week session.
1 Day Per Week – $450
2 Days Per Week – $900
3 Days Per Week – $1,350
4 Days Per Week – $1,800

Step 2: Select Your Regular Attendance Day(s)
CITs attend on the same selected day(s) each week for the full 12-week session.
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday

Location: 13164 Burbank Blvd., Sherman Oaks, CA 91401

Eligibility:
Teens ages 13–17
Interview required for acceptance
Spots are limited

Financial Support
We are vendored with Regional Centers and also accept Self-Determination Program (SDP) funding.

Code #HL0462

Contact your Regional Center service coordinator for more information about funding options.

Apply now

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What Our Families are Saying

“In addition to the awesome variety of classes, the staff is outstanding. The kids are well taken care of after school until you arrive to pick them up. My son benefits from each class and being exposed to something new. It opens his mind in so many ways and he’s so happy every time I pick him up. I would highly recommend this program to any parent!”
–Kids Like Me Parent

“The staff at the Kids Like Me Summer Camp went out of their way to treat my daughter and I with caring and respect. My daughter has such a great time during the activities, she doesn’t even notice she’s expanding her social skills!”

–Kids Like Me Parent

“My child has been attending Kids Like Me After School Program at Help Group for about a year. I absolutely love this program and wish it were year-round. For parents where time or access may be an issue, this program fills the gap so that our kids can still participate in activities that they may not usually get the chance due to their ability.”
–Kids Like Me Parent

Kids Like Me provides enrichment programs, seasonal camps for children and teens with autism and other developmental differences in Los Angeles.

Programs

After-School Enrichment

Support

Regional Center Funding

Self-Determination Program (SDP)

FAQs

Contact Us

Location

Help Group
13164 Burbank Blvd.
Sherman Oaks, CA 91401

(818) 778-7171
play@helpgroup.org

© 2026 Kids Like Me. All Rights Reserved.
Kids Like Me is a program of Help Group, a leading nonprofit organization serving children, teens, and young adults with autism, learning differences, ADHD, and other developmental disabilities across Los Angeles.