Embracing Neurodiversity with The Safe House Framework: Autism Edition

How do we create a society that embraces neurodiversity?

Written for neurodivergent people and the parents, teachers, and helping professionals who support them, The Safe House Framework explains the key principles of the neurodiversity affirming approach, and provides a step by step guide to implementing affirming practices in your life, home, classroom, or workplace.

Deepen your understanding of autism, and learn how you can help build a world that both supports and celebrates differences. Comprehensive, concise, and practical, The Safe House Framework is a must read for anyone with an interest in autism, neurodiversity, and the affirming approach.

Valli Jones is a self-identified autistic clinical psychologist. The Safe House Framework is a fusion of her formal education and training, over a decade of working with neurodivergent folk, and the lived experience of designing her own Safe House.

Outline of Contents:

• FOUNDATIONS: a summary of the crucial theory, research, and values that underpin neurodiversity affirming practices.
• FLOORPLAN: a deep dive into the inner experience of Autism, dispelling the myths and stereotypes, and looking beyond the limiting view of the diagnostic criteria to see the amazing strengths inherent in the Autistic way of being. This section includes a review of the key differences in the neurodivergent brain and nervous system, and how those differences manifest in daily life, and also outlines the problems with some traditional interventions for autistic people.
• WALLS: an overview of the intricate human support structure, looking at the specific roles and responsibilities of the many people in an Autistic person's life, and the core skills of neurodiversity affirming practitioners.
• WINDOWS: what it means to view behaviour as communication of needs, and the critical importance of identifying the underlying needs when seeking to address behavioural concerns.
• DOOR: respectful, authentic connection, and the importance of attuned relationships.
• ROOF: a look at the protective people and systems.
• LANDSCAPE: a discussion around the relevance of the broader socio-political context.

Readers will come away with a deep, nuanced understanding of the autistic experience, and a greater awareness of the many barriers faced by autistic people. Equipped with a holistic framework for neurodiversity affirming practices, readers will have the knowledge needed to help create a more accepting and inclusive society.