Side Quest Club

A Low-Pressure Young Adult Connection Group

Sometimes being around people is enough.

Side Quest Club is an ongoing weekly group for young adults ages 18–21 who want connection and community without the pressure that can come with traditional social settings.

Designed to be neurodivergent-friendly, interest-based, and low-pressure, Side Quest Club creates space for young adults who may feel anxious, awkward, quiet, unsure of themselves socially—or simply more comfortable connecting when the focus isn’t entirely on conversation.

There is no expectation to walk into the room and immediately socialize.

Instead, participants are invited to bring something they already enjoy doing: a craft, drawing supplies, crochet, a book, laptop, handheld gaming device, card or tabletop game, sketchbook, current project, or another favorite activity.

Work independently. Sit near someone. Join a game. Share an interest. Listen to a conversation. Start one if you want to.

Connection can happen without forcing it.

What Makes Side Quest Different?

Side Quest Club isn’t about teaching young adults how to appear more social or asking them to perform a particular version of “normal.”

It’s about creating the conditions where authentic connection has room to develop.

Within the group, participants have opportunities to practice things like:

  • Building and maintaining relationships

  • Initiating and joining conversations

  • Sharing interests with others

  • Navigating group dynamics

  • Reading and communicating boundaries

  • Self-advocacy

  • Flexibility and collaborative problem-solving

  • Emotional regulation in social situations

  • Becoming more comfortable being themselves around other people

And sometimes the most meaningful step is simply showing up and sharing space with other people.

That counts, too.

Who Is Side Quest Club For?

Side Quest Club may be a good fit for young adults who:

  • Want friendships or connection but aren’t sure where to find their people

  • Experience social anxiety or feel uncomfortable in traditional social environments

  • Are autistic, ADHD, otherwise neurodivergent, or simply connect differently

  • Prefer activity-based interaction over sitting in a circle and talking

  • Have strong interests they’d enjoy pursuing alongside other people

  • Want a consistent place to belong without pressure to “fit in”

All genders are welcome.

An Ongoing Group

Unlike our time-limited groups, Side Quest Club is ongoing, allowing relationships, familiarity, and a sense of community to develop over time.

We are currently welcoming new members.

Weekly | Ages 18–21
Led by Allison Battles, LPC-MHSP-S

The Therapeutic Studio – Thompson’s Station
1748 Lewisburg Pike
Thompson’s Station, TN 37064

Day and time options may be flexible depending on current group needs and enrollment.

Come As You Are.

You don’t need to have the right thing to say.

You don’t need to be outgoing.

You don’t need to make small talk.

Bring something you enjoy, find a comfortable spot, and see what happens when connection doesn’t have to be forced.

Contact The Therapeutic Studio to learn more about Side Quest Club, current openings, and whether the group may be a good fit.