Schoolhouse Social was founded in 2023 by Nina Parrella and James Clinch.
Our groups are run jointly by Nina and James, drawing on a network of carefully selected allied health professionals as needed.
James Clinch
GDipPsych, GDipPsych(Adv), GradCert (Counselling & Psychotherapy)
James has honours in psychology and is currently undertaking his clinical psychology training and certification. He has a keen interest in supporting young people with unique social and behavioural profiles. He aims to help them express themselves authentically while working towards their goals.
In addition to his psychology training, James holds a graduate certificate in counselling and psychotherapy, equipping him with a wide range of contemporary therapeutic approaches.
James has a natural ability to connect with people, especially children and teens. He brings an inclusive and supportive energy that encourages these learners to open up and explore themselves.
Nina Parrella
BSp, MSc, PhD
Nina is a certified practising speech pathologist and cognitive neuroscience researcher with over a decade of experience supporting children and adults with communication and feeding needs across Australia, the UK, and Europe. Her research examines the neural effects of certain pharmacological interventions and their potential to support social development in autistic children.
Nina has a calm, engaging approach, and strong rapport with young people. At Schoolhouse Social, she leads our groups and curriculum development, combining her clinical and research expertise.
Jay Marinis
BPsychSci, GDipPsych(Adv), MPsychClin, PhD candidate, MAPS, AAPI
Jay is a registered psychologist with extensive knowledge of neurological differences. Jay creates a therapeutic environment that is compassionate, animated and genuine. They are an active and lively practitioner with a dedicated therapeutic presence. During sessions, they provide unwavering acceptance and support.
Jay utilises a range of contemporary, evidenced based therapeutic approaches. In additional to therapeutic supports, Jay has extensive training in assessment and diagnosis.
Jay’s PhD research, through Orygen Youth Mental Health and the University of Melbourne, investigates MDMA-assisted psychotherapy with young autistic adults and related anxiety disorders.
Hannah Williams
Allied Health Assistant
Hannah is an Allied Health Assistant currently undertaking a Bachelor of Health Science with a Masters in Speech and Language Therapy. She provides 1:1 support to our social group participants who have additional speech and language goals. Hannah has a natural ability to connect with children and brings her relevant insights from her parenting to her practice. Her calm and reassuring presence helps children build their confidence and skills.
Hannah has a previous career in banking which enables her to bring a developed and well-rounded understanding of how speech and language skills translate into life beyond the therapy room.
Ruby Dennis
Social group mentor
Ruby has been an integral part of our team since the start of 2024. She brings a unique perspective to her role and connects naturally with children, helping them feel confident in who they are. With lived experience of neurodivergence, Ruby understands the challenges young people face and is passionate about providing support and friendly advice.
Currently in her final years of high school, she finds school to be the most stressful part of her life and offers coping strategies and insights to help others navigate similar challenges. Ruby has participated in many social development groups and values the supportive and inclusive environment that James and Nina foster in their programs.
Sessions