NeuroVisible
Support for PDA Autism & Collective for Educational Services
Neurodiversity Education and Support Services that illuminate the values of autonomy and connection to create PDA NeuroVisibility; transforming systems and lives.
MISSION
Our mission is to inspire and enact collective systemic change, championing neurodiversity affirming practices in all aspects of life, with a particular focus on reducing marginalization related to intersecting identities.
We aim to transform communities into NeuroVisible spaces where PDA individuals are better understood, supported, and celebrated.
We seek to uplift the strengths and assets of the PDA neurotype, fostering autonomy, empowerment, and inclusion for all members of the community.
VISION
In bringing awareness about the PDA neurotype to systems that have historically been oppressive and pathologizing, we envision systemic change including ensuring that historically marginalized communities and individuals with intersectional identities can access affirming and effective support.
CORE VALUES
Safety
A fundamental human right, internal felt safety is individually determined. Perceptions of safety vary by neurotype. Assessing for felt safety is an inquisitive and dynamic process.
Autonomy
Freedom, choice and self-direction. Visibility and autonomy are the tools for building inclusion.
Awareness
Visibility and the value of seeing accurately. Embracing multiple perspecives.
Acceptance
The ability to be embraced as one’s self leading to belonging and inclusion.
Collective
Connection is essential for all growth and change, empowerment grows when we come together.
COLLECTIVE ACTION
The current medical model of mental health that we are used to focuses on an ‘anxiety based need for control’ and ‘pathological avoidance of demands’. These frameworks available to us , while needed in this current time, are also inherently pathologizing - pointing to only the perceived problems or deficits and creating stigma and putting the burden for change solely on the individual.
Autonomy within the experience of human relationship is at the foundation of connection.
Autonomy may be misunderstood as isolation and independence, however it is a healing agent when it is offered alongside support, interdependence, and connection to others.
Committing to inclusion for those who are the most in need of autonomy to thrive leads the way for collective growth. In a world where hierarchies and social control prevails, the nervous system that sounds alarm bells whenever it perceives injustices and the loss of autonomy can be misunderstood as the problem and engaged in individual healing or change. However, beyond focusing on individuals and imperatives for individual and family change, systemic changes are urgently needed.
Autonomy with connection is at the core of what enriches a community and helps all members thrive.