We launched Schoolhouse Social in 2023 to address the need for fun and meaningful social experiences for neurodivergent children and adolescents in Melbourne.

Following extensive experience working with neurodivergent children in Australia and the UK, we set out to establish a practice dedicated to social development.

Social groups are the sole focus of our work, which allows us to provide young people with the highest quality group-based support. Our core team brings together expertise in speech pathology, cognitive neuroscience, counselling, and psychology.

Our approach is grounded in clinical experience and informed by evidence-based tools and programs. From the design of our curriculum to the environment we create, we aim to support a broad range of sensory and emotional needs.

We are profoundly aware of the importance of neurodiversity-affirming practices. We think carefully about how our curriculum can help young people navigate the world while protecting and valuing their unique perspectives and needs. Our materials and methods are continually reviewed to stay aligned with evolving thinking in this area.

Supporting parents is central to the way we work

We’re also inspired by the quiet strength of the parents we work with. We recognise the unique challenges they face, and supporting them is central to our approach.

Neurodivergence shouldn’t be isolating, but for many school-age individuals, it can be. We believe that safe, structured social experiences help young people better understand themselves and the world around them. We want young people to feel confident in who they are and how they connect with others. Our groups are designed to build the skills, self-awareness, and community that make that possible.

About us

James and Nina