Providing in-depth testing by an AuDHD evaluator can uncover the underlying strengths and challenges of children and adults with neurodevelopmental diagnoses, which include autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dyscalculia, dysgraphia, adaptive functioning, and more. This comprehensive approach helps identify the root causes of difficulties, enabling targeted support strategies. Each formal evaluation is tailored to the individual's needs. My assessment expertise is informed by doctoral-level training and supervision, and I provide these services within the scope of my master 's-level licensure. I utilize various standardized assessments and questionnaires when providing evaluations. School districts, universities, OPWDD, and Social Security benefits have accepted evaluations. When determining rates for formal assessment, several factors can influence the final cost, which will be discussed before the formal evaluation begins. 

• Evaluations for those who are seeking entry into OPWDD, work, and school accommodations

• Children & teens who may have been missed for Autism, misdiagnosed, or misunderstood 

• Adults who self-refer and are seeking answers & validation

What does neuro-affirming mean? 

Psychological assessment has traditionally focused on identifying mental health disorders. Individuals are often referred for evaluation when their behavior is considered socially atypical or when they experience difficulties with emotional regulation, cognitive functioning, or everyday activities. Historically, the purpose of this process has been to determine what may be “wrong” by assigning one or more diagnoses, guided by criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), a classification system for mental health conditions. Although this model continues to guide much of contemporary assessment practice and can be beneficial in many circumstances, it may also contribute to the over-pathologizing of neurological differences that are not inherently indicative of disorder.

A neuro-affirming assessment model is grounded in the understanding that natural diversity in human neurology is valuable and contributes meaningfully to society. While Autistic and ADHD neurotypes can be associated with distress or functional challenges, these difficulties are often shaped by environments and cultural expectations that are not designed to accommodate differing ways of thinking, learning, and experiencing the world. As a neuro-affirming practitioner, my goal is to offer feedback that accurately reflects your lived experience while distinguishing between genuine areas of difficulty and differences that should not be viewed as pathological.

My interests lie in exploring the science of reading, understanding dyslexia and other disabilities, and shedding light on evidence-based support for autism and ADHD to promote social development and belonging. I'm passionate about fostering neurodiversity and advocating for inclusive education practices that support diverse learners. 

Assessment is just the starting point. Real progress happens when we turn insights into action. That's why I provide a range of tools and expert guidance to help parents and caregivers create personalized support plans that, based on assessment results, drive growth and development.

Here's what you can expect from the assessment process 

In-depth exploration: A comprehensive discussion of your personal history, lived experiences, and the challenges you’ve encountered.

Identifying strengths and interests: Recognizing your strengths, passions, and natural abilities.

Understanding your thought process: Examination of how you think, approach problem-solving, and navigate different situations.

Support needs assessment: Identification of areas where additional support or accommodation may be beneficial.

The assessment process involves:

Conversations: Open, collaborative discussions help build rapport and develop an understanding of your needs and experiences.

Questionnaires: You may be asked to complete questionnaires that provide additional information about your experiences, preferences, and concerns.

Evidence-based tools: Standardized assessments and evidence-based tools are utilized to gain a deeper understanding of strengths and areas of challenge.

The total length of the assessment varies but generally requires 8 – 10 weeks.

Your lived experience matters!

Your experiences, perspectives, and insights help me identify the high levels of masking and low levels of support needs among autistic individuals, an area in which I specialize.  

Professional Disclaimer

My ethical and professional responsibility is to provide feedback, clinical impressions, and any diagnosis based on the objective data gathered throughout the evaluation process. At times, individuals may strongly relate to or expect a particular diagnosis; however, assessment results may show that although the experiences or symptoms feel similar, the underlying factors may differ. For example, difficulties with executive functioning may be present, but testing may indicate that these challenges are better explained by depression rather than ADHD. Accordingly, participation in testing does not guarantee a specific diagnostic outcome. Fees are for my professional time, training, and clinical expertise in conducting and interpreting the evaluation, not for assigning a predetermined diagnosis without sufficient supporting data.