Autism Evaluation / Diagnosis

Many adults wonder if they are on The Autism Spectrum but went undiagnosed as children. I conduct evaluations that answer this question and provide diagnoses that can be used to obtain accommodations at school/work or simply to provide insight and understanding. Using the (Modified for adults) Checklist for Autism Spectrum Disorders (created by Susan D. Mayes Ph.D) and a diagnostic checklist created directly from the DSM-5 criteria, I provide a comprehensive evaluation and diagnosis through an interview-style assessment. Areas of assessment include the presence, duration and severity of difficulties with social interaction, communication, sensory issues and restricted, repetitive behaviors. Female vs. male presentations of autism have been extensively researched and are taken into consideration. Co-occurring issues such as sensory differences, executive function challenges and processing differences are explored. Allow for a 2 hour session. Please see "Evaluation Details" for more information.

Autism Counseling / Advocacy

Differences in social interaction, communication, sensory issues and rigid routines can result in difficulties in personal life, school and work. This in turn can lead to depression and anxiety. Through active listening, individualized strategies and advocacy, I aim to ease clients’ personal challenges while celebrating and building on their strengths and uniqueness. Support and insight is also provided for family members. I collaborate with doctors and specialists to ensure wrap-around care. Sensory needs are taken into account and accommodated in session.