Adulting with Autism

Designing for the Neurodivergent Mind: Creating Inclusive Spaces That Heal


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Hey friends! ✨ In this episode of Adulting with Autism, I’m joined by Stephanie Lee Jackson, founder of Practical Sanctuary and creator of the groundbreaking field of sensory interior design.

Stephanie is on a mission to make every space—homes, offices, classrooms, and even public buildings—neuro-inclusive, emotionally supportive, and sensory-safe. And guess what? You don’t need a big budget or an HGTV crew to create a calming space tailored to your unique brain.

🎨 What we cover in this episode:

  • How clutter, light, sound & smell can trigger overwhelm

  • The hidden toll of inaccessible spaces for neurodivergent folks

  • How to create a sensory sanctuary without blowing your budget

  • Why your nervous system deserves a home that feels safe

  • Her journey from artist and massage therapist to trauma-informed designer

    If you’ve ever felt drained by your own space—or never felt at home in the world around you—this episode will open your eyes to the possibility of healing through environment.

    🪑 Work with Stephanie:

    🌐 practicalsanctuary.com
    💌 Free resource: Download Stephanie’s starter guide to building your own sensory-friendly space
    📸 IG: @practicalsanctuary
    📘 Coming soon: The Eccentric Genius Habitat Intervention: Interior Design for Highly Sensitive People – 2025

    ☕ Support this podcast via Buy Me a Coffee

    🎁 Join our Discord—1,000th member wins $100 + exclusive merch
    🎧 Listen on Podbean | Spotify | Apple Podcasts | YouTube

    💬 COMMENT: What’s one change in your space that helped your brain feel calmer?

    🔔 FOLLOW for more empowering convos around neurodivergence, self-design, and adulting your own way.

    #SensoryInteriorDesign #StephanieLeeJackson #NeurodivergentSpaces #AdultingWithAutism #InclusiveDesign #SensoryAccessibility #NeurodivergentHome #HealingEnvironments #SponsorReadyContent #MentalWellnessDesign #NeurodivergentSupport #PodMatch

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    Adulting with AutismBy April Ratchford MS OT/L

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