Fostering Opportunities

for Relationships,

Growth and Empowerment

I want to learn more

  • FORGE is an inclusive community created for neurodivergent individuals of all ages, including children, adolescents, and adults. We are excited to serve individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, brain injuries, and Down syndrome and otherwise while also providing a space for typically developing individuals to participate in group activities. FORGE welcomes anyone seeking a supportive, empowering space to develop social skills, build lasting relationships, and grow confidently within a like-minded community.

  • FORGE offers modern, evidence-based social skills development programs that focus on empowering individuals to succeed socially and emotionally. The programs include group sessions tailored to different age groups and are designed to build independence and confidence. FORGE’s supportive environment provides participants with opportunities for continuous growth, helping them practice essential social skills within a community that values connection, growth, and empowerment.

  • The FORGE method combines evidence-based instruction with real-life social practice. It’s a model designed to help individuals move beyond traditional, one-on-one therapies by developing social skills through group sessions, personalized interactions, and real-world scenarios. The FORGE method empowers participants to build skills such as communication, empathy, and friendship-building, bridging the gap between structured therapy and independent social functioning.

““FORGE was created to bridge the gap left by traditional services, offering a continuous path for individuals to develop essential social skills and lasting connections in a supportive community.”

We Empower Through Skills

Learn how FORGE builds a foundation by Fostering Opportunities for Relationships, Growth and Empowerment

ABOUT
FORGE

Gaby and Clara, the co-founders of FORGE, are dedicated clinicians and researchers with over 20 years of combined experience helping individuals with special needs thrive. They met while earning their bachelor and master’s degrees at California State University, Sacramento, where they worked in a social skills clinic. Gaby’s expertise in research focused on feeding and autism, while Clara studied verbal behavior and has since worked in rehabilitation for people with brain injuries.

Inspired by the lack of continuity in care after traditional programs end, whether in the application of 1:1 ABA services for Autism or in the Rehabilitation setting, they created FORGE to fill this gap. Their mission is to provide a supportive space where individuals of all abilities can develop meaningful social connections and grow throughout their lives.

Growth Catalyst

Gaby Chagolla, BCBA

Creator

of Connection

Clara Cordeiro, BCBA