CONNECT stands for Creating Opportunities for Neurodivergent Networking, Expression, Communication, and Transformation.

It’s an in-person social communication group for neurodivergent tweens and teens, led by a licensed speech-language pathologist who specializes in supporting social communication. The program teaches specific tools, strategies, and step-by-step techniques to help participants build stronger conversation skills and develop meaningful friendships.

CONNECT combines the evidence-based practices from the UCLA PEERS® curriculum with Gabby Pyzza’s original Social Skills Blueprint™ conversation framework—creating a neurodiversity-affirming, practical, and highly supportive experience designed to meet learners where they are.

If your child verbally communicates and expresses their thoughts, needs, and feelings (rather than primarily communicating by repeating or echoing others), understands and responds to others, is open to learning new strategies, and struggles with things like conversation, connection, or making and keeping friends—then this program is likely a great fit.

As part of the application process, we’ll schedule a brief virtual interview that your child must attend. This allows me to get to know them and ensures that the group is the right fit based on their communication and learning level.

Unlike many other programs that group kids only by age without considering developmental fit, CONNECT is intentionally designed to match participants by age, communication, and learning levels. This creates a supportive environment where each child is surrounded by peers who are at a similar stage of social learning—so they feel understood, encouraged, and never out of place. When kids are in a group that’s the right fit, they’re more likely to participate, connect, and experience meaningful progress.

Many social skills groups focus on general socializing or group activities—but don’t always teach how to build real connections step by step, or match participants based on their communication or learning level.

The CONNECT Program is different. It combines research-backed practices from the UCLA PEERS® curriculum with Gabby Pyzza’s original Social Skills Blueprint™ framework to teach practical, real-world strategies for conversation and friendship building. Every participant learns specific tools they can apply right away—not vague advice or one-size-fits-all lessons.

Plus, unlike many programs that place kids by age alone, CONNECT groups are thoughtfully matched by communication and learning readiness. This creates a supportive environment where participants can feel comfortable, connect with peers who are at a similar stage, and make real progress without feeling left behind or out of place.

I understand that life happens—and if your child misses a session, I’m happy to connect briefly with you to review what was covered and walk you through the week’s home practice assignment. This way, your child can stay on track and continue making progress, even if they miss a group session.

That said, please know that the CONNECT Program is designed to build skills week by week, and each session builds on the one before. For this reason, I’m unable to offer makeup sessions or provide individual instruction for missed lessons.

I encourage families to prioritize attending each session whenever possible, as consistent participation is key to helping your child stay engaged, confident, and supported throughout the program. Refunds are not provided for missed sessions.

I'm here to support both you and your child along the way—and I’m excited to watch their confidence and connection skills grow!

Every child’s progress looks a little different, and results depend on many factors—including their starting point, participation in group, and how much they practice outside of sessions.

While I can’t guarantee specific outcomes like making new friends or becoming a conversation expert overnight, what I can promise is a safe, supportive space where your child will learn practical tools, build confidence, and have meaningful opportunities to grow.

The goal is steady, lasting progress—not perfection—and I’m here to support your child (and you!) every step of the way.

Each week, you’ll receive a handout that reviews what your child learned in group, along with simple home practice assignments to help them practice the skills at home. These resources are designed to keep you in the loop and give you tools to support your child’s progress between sessions—no extra prep required.

You can support your child by reviewing the handouts together, encouraging practice in everyday situations, and celebrating the small wins as they build confidence. Your involvement, even in small ways, can make a big difference—and I’m here to guide you through it step by step.

Because spots are limited and each child’s consistent participation is essential to creating a safe, supportive group environment, we’re unable to offer refunds once the program begins. If you have any questions before enrolling or need help deciding if the program is the right fit, I’m happy to connect and talk it through with you first.