Abstract

Outlining a new, optimistic way to understand autism, this concise and accessible book offers practical ideas to help children on the spectrum grow.

The Polyvagal Theory suggests autism is a learnt response by the body - a result of the child being in a prolonged state of 'fight or flight' while their nervous system is still developing. This book explains the theory in simple terms and incorporates recent developments in brain plasticity research (the capacity of the brain to change throughout life) to give parents and professionals the tools to strengthen the child's brain-body connection and lessen the social and emotional impact of autism.

Holly Bridges runs a therapeutic consultancy called 'License to Think' and was nominated for the 'Excellence in Personal and Community Support' category of the Australian National Disability Services' 2015 Disability Support Awards. She lives in Perth, Western Australia.
Reframe Your Thinking Around Autism is a succinctly written book with engaging graphics that provides a new optimistic approach to conceptualize autism. Rather than focusing on the clinical diagnostic tools that have been used to define autism, Holly Bridges focuses on linking many of the compromised functions that are experienced by autistics to features of the Polyvagal Theory, a theory I developed. Using the Polyvagal Theory as an organizing principle she introduces a variety of intervention models that potentially could function as neural exercises (i.e. brain plasticity) to rehabilitate the social engagement system and to optimize autonomic regulation. This unique and readable book effectively connects to the families and the people who directly interact with individuals with autism.
Stephen W. Porges, PhD, Professor of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina and author of 'The Polyvagal Theory: Neurophysiological Foundations of Emotions, Attachment, Communication, and Self-regulation'
Holly Bridges' passion and compassion has led her to connect to children on the autism spectrum and to look to help them from where they are in their world. I am thrilled that she is offering the 9 Essentials of the Anat Baniel Method as a science-based NeuroMovement® approach to generate positive impact on these children's brains, in their lives and the lives of their families. Holly can inspire all of us with her love, dedication, receptiveness to new ideas and open mind.
Anat Baniel, founder of the Anat Baniel Method and author of 'Kids Beyond Limits'
Holly Bridges writes with an absolute clarity and vision about her subject. I liken her to a seamstress, sewing back in the missing pieces, and pulling the threads together that have limited our autistic model. For all the knowledge and understanding that a lot of people in this field offer, there is a big gap in this area. There is always so much more to learn on this journey, but applying this knowledge and seeing real changes happen, is heart-warming, encouraging and inspiring!
Ceri Wood B.A., parent of a child with autism