Forging Social Skills for a

Lifetime of Success

FORGE was born from a shared vision: to create a place where individuals of all abilities are empowered to grow, connect, and thrive. Recognizing that traditional services often end without ongoing support, co-founders Gaby and Clara saw a need to bridge the gap between therapy and real-world relationships. With over two decades of combined experience in clinical practice and research, they built FORGE as a safe, inclusive community that helps people at every stage of life develop the social skills essential for lasting friendships and self-confidence.

Clara and Gaby in 2016

At FORGE, we celebrate diversity, resilience, and the unique strengths that each person brings. Our programs, grounded in research and personalized care, are designed to help individuals foster genuine connections, grow in a supportive environment, and embrace empowerment through relationships. By providing a space where people can be themselves, meet others, and develop skills for a lifetime, FORGE creates new opportunities for those who need them most.

Our approach is not only innovative—it’s essential. We believe that everyone deserves a space to be seen, valued, and celebrated. Here at FORGE, we’re more than a program; we’re a community, dedicated to helping individuals of all abilities build bridges to brighter futures.

FORGE the Journey with Us!

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FORGE the Journey with Us!

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FORGE the Journey with Us! * FORGE the Journey with Us! *

Meet the Team

Get to know the people behind FORGE who are dedicated to fostering opportunities for relationships, growth, and empowerment every day.

  • BCBA since 2021

    Gaby, co-founder of FORGE, is a Sacramento native with a knack for helping individuals with developmental disabilities build the social skills they need to thrive. With a Master’s in Psychology and Applied Behavior Analysis from California State University, Sacramento, Gaby has made it her mission to develop and implement evidence-based strategies for promoting independence and meaningful social connections. Her research in feeding interventions and autism has been published in Behavior Analysis in Practice, reflecting her dedication to advancing knowledge in her field.

    Over the years, Gaby has worked with major ABA providers across California, delivering both in-home and center-based services to individuals of all ages. This experience has given her a unique perspective, helping her create specialized programs that meet each client’s needs and pave the way for social and emotional growth. Known for her warm, client-centered approach, Gaby is passionate about empowering neurodivergent individuals to feel confident as they navigate social settings and adulthood. A proud Mexican American, Gaby is bilingual in English and Spanish, which adds a valuable cultural perspective to her work (and makes her a favorite among Spanish-speaking clients and families). Outside of work, Gaby enjoys life with her dog and staying connected to her Sacramento roots.

    Inspired by the need for more continuity of care, Gaby co-founded FORGE to offer a supportive environment where individuals can build lasting relationships, grow personally, and reach their fullest potential at every stage of life.

  • BCBA since 2019

    Clara Cordeiro, Ph.D. candidate and co-founder of FORGE has over a decade of experience in both clinical and research settings. Currently pursuing her Ph.D. in Applied Behavior Analysis at Endicott College, Clara is focused on exploring creative, effective ways to support social skills development. She also has a Master’s in Psychology with an emphasis in Applied Behavior Analysis from California State University, Sacramento, where her research centered on verbal behavior.

    Clara’s contributions to the field are extensive—she’s presented her findings at conferences nationwide, and her work has been published in respected journals like the Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis and The Analysis of Verbal Behavior. Her clinical experience is equally diverse, as she’s worked hands-on with individuals of all ages, with autism and brain injuries, creating personalized programs that make social growth both meaningful and accessible. Known for her empathetic and engaging style, Clara is dedicated to providing neurodivergent individuals with the skills they need to flourish.

    As Chief Strategy Officer for Guia para Análise do Comportamento, Clara also extends her expertise internationally, teaching and consulting in behavior analysis throughout Brazil. Originally from Southern California and fully bilingual in English and Portuguese, Clara brings a rich cultural perspective to her work, fostering an inclusive environment at FORGE where everyone can feel at home.

    Driven by her vision of lifelong social growth for neurodivergent individuals, Clara co-founded FORGE to provide a safe, empowering space where clients can build relationships, pursue personal growth, and experience genuine connection at every stage of life.