1:1 sessions using structured movement, visual supports, and a calm, low-stimulus environment to build confidence, regulation, and body awareness.
Adaptive Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for neurodivergent children and young adults.
What is Synaflow?
Synaflow is a 1:1 adaptive Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu program for neurodivergent children and young adults.
Sessions use structured movement, visual supports, and predictable routines to help participants build body awareness, confidence, regulation, and comfort with safe physical interaction.
Synaflow is not a therapy service. It is a movement-based martial arts program designed to complement existing supports.
How we teach
Real Jiu-Jitsu. Adapted to the individual.
At Synaflow, we teach genuine Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu while adapting the way each skill is introduced, demonstrated and practised.
Complex movements can be broken into smaller, achievable steps before being gradually connected into the complete technique.
Depending on the participant, sessions may include visual supports, demonstration, repetition, clear instructions and additional processing time.
The pace, level of challenge and communication style can be adjusted throughout the session while maintaining a clear and predictable environment.
What to Expect in a Session?
Synaflow sessions follow a familiar structure to support predictability, engagement and confidence, while still being adapted to the participant on the day.
A typical session may include:
ARRIVE → MOVE → LEARN → CONNECT → RESET
Arrival and orientation
Movement preparation
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu skill development
Connection-based activities
Regulation opportunities when needed
A consistent closing routine
Every session is individualised, but the overall structure remains clear and predictable.
The Space
Sessions are delivered from a private space within a psychology clinic in Westmead, providing a calm and predictable environment for participants.
Private low-stimulus room
Access to a sensory regulation space
Free on-site parking
1:1 focused sessions
This setting supports consistency, reduces overwhelm, and allows each session to be tailored to the individual.
What to Expect From Synaflow?
Progress at Synaflow is individual, but families often notice changes such as:
Improved body awareness and coordination
Increased confidence when trying new movements
Better tolerance for structured activities
Greater comfort with safe physical contact
Ability to settle and re-engage during transitions
These changes are built gradually through consistent, structured sessions.
Meet the Instructor
Rafael Santana
Founder & Adaptive Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Coach
Rafael is an IBJJF-recognised 2nd Degree Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt with more than 20 years of training and over 10 years of teaching experience.
His experience includes working with children and adults, including neurodivergent participants, and adapting communication, demonstrations, pacing and movement progressions to suit different learning styles and individual needs.
Alongside his martial arts background, Rafael has undertaken additional training in:
Positive Behaviour Support
Autism and neurodiversity
ADHD awareness
Sensory processing
Inclusive practice
NDIS worker orientation and safeguarding
He is also currently completing a Diploma of Counselling.
This additional training informs how Synaflow sessions are structured and adapted, while Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu remains at the core of the program.
Synaflow sessions are delivered as adaptive martial arts instruction and are designed to complement, not replace, existing clinical or educational supports.
What Families Are Saying
“Rafael is a pioneer in helping neurodivergent kids find confidence and coordination through Jiu-Jitsu and movement. He has helped my son remain calm and has taught him the value of discipline. I would recommend Synaflow to any family!”
★★★★★Review · Google“Coach Rafael has been so patient, caring and supportive. He really takes the time to understand the way Alex learns and adjusts the way he teaches so that Alex can get the most out of every session.”
★★★★★Review · Google“Rafael has been amazing with our son. He tailors each session to your child’s individual needs, creating a positive, supportive and encouraging environment. He now counts down the days until his next session.”
★★★★★Review · GoogleSubmit an enquiry
We’ll discuss suitability and availability
Complete intake and registration forms
Book your first session
HOW TO GET STARTED
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No. Synaflow is a movement-based adaptive martial arts program and does not provide medical, psychological, or allied health services.
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No. Sessions are fully adapted to the individual and suitable for beginners.
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Sessions take place in a private clinic-based space in Westmead, Sydney.
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Sessions are delivered 1:1 to ensure individualised support and a controlled environment.
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Yes, for self-managed and plan-managed participants.
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This depends on the participant’s needs and can be discussed during the initial conversation.
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After you submit the intake form, we will review the information to understand your child’s needs and determine whether Synaflow is a good fit. If appropriate, we will contact you to discuss the next steps and available session times. Completing the intake form does not commit you to anything.
Frequently Asked Questions
Our Community
Ready to explore if Synaflow is the right fit?
Submit an enquiry, and we’ll be in touch to discuss your child’s needs and current availability.
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Email us directly.