Being able to connect with others makes us all feel like we belong.
This is the basis of all work we do here at The Social Gym – to empower young people to communicate and connect to others so they are happy, productive members of society
What do we do?
The Social Gym was founded in 2018 with the aim of fostering a sense of connection and belonging for neurodivergent teenagers and young adults. In a world that is increasingly interconnected, many neurodivergent individuals may face challenges in navigating social contexts, building relationships and expressing themselves. We believe everyone deserves the support to thrive, and we are dedicated to empowering our clients on their journey to achieve goals that are motivating and meaningful to them.
We are a team of Speech Pathologists who are passionate about empowering neurodivergent individuals to build independence, advocate for their needs, and achieve meaningful, individualised goals.
We honor and affirm the diverse ways people communicate, learn and interact with the world, and are committed to creating a safe and supportive space where our clients feel heard.
At The Social Gym, we offer personalized 1-on-1 sessions designed to meet each client’s specific needs. Sessions are available at our Chippendale HQ, at school, home, and in the community. We also run group sessions that aim to connect participants with others who share similar interests and experiences. Our goal is to provide opportunities for social engagement that focus on strengths rather than deficits, ensuring each individual feels valued and supported. We also work closely with external programs, including work experience opportunities, to help neurodivergent individuals build the skills and confidence to navigate both social and professional environments in ways that feel authentic to them.
Our team consists of clinicians with a wide range of interests and clinical expertise, and we believe in a collaborative, holistic approach to supporting each individual. As a team we are always learning, and are committed to engaging with both research and the community to support best practice.
The Social Gym is more than just a service - it’s a community where neurodivergent people are respected, empowered, and celebrated for who they are.
We support our clients to:
Navigate friendship and relationship dynamics
Understand different communication styles and their value i.e., neurodivergent and allistic perspectives
Develop self-compassion and confidence in their own communication style
Problem-solve individualised social scenarios
Identify and advocate for their needs across different contexts (e.g., school, work, personal life)
Educate and involve their support network in understanding their unique needs and differences
Build independence in accessing community and workplaces (e.g., using public transport, navigating workplace dynamics)
Develop personalised emotional regulation strategies
Set and communicate their own boundaries in different contexts
Foster a positive self identify
Explore communication and advocacy around consent, sex and relationships
Develop the skills to plan social activities & problem solve change
Navigate the transition between high school and graduation
Advocate for and access further supports in school, workplace and community environments (e.g., exam provisions)
Navigate online friendships and communication safely
Access other relevant services (e.g., Occupational Therapy, Psychology)
