In this episode of Tuning into Development, Deborah Sussman steps in for host Kassie Allison for a thoughtful conversation with clinical social worker and developmental specialist Ruby Salazar. Together, they explore Ruby’s passion for working with families through the DIR® perspective and what it truly means to partner with caregivers in relationship-based, family-centered ways.

Ruby shares how helping families understand behavior developmentally can strengthen connection, support regulation, and bring greater balance to everyday family life—particularly in moments of stress, limited resources, or following an autism diagnosis. The conversation highlights the importance of caregivers serving as a secure base, “putting on their own oxygen mask,” and creating small, meaningful rituals that nurture joy, attunement, and communication.

The episode also offers a preview of Profectum’s March conference focused on supporting families across the lifespan, featuring expert faculty, keynote sessions, and access to recorded content following the event.