I am a Certified Autism Specialist and work with children and adults. The evaluation process involves structured clinical interviews and psychological testing instruments across several sessions. Family members and partners are encouraged to attend the evaluation. I utilize a strengths-based approach to help you identify unique characteristics that you can utilize to succeed in school, work, and relationships.
Autism Spectrum Disorder is a form of Nuerodivergence where an individual’s thought patterns, behaviors, and emotional experiences significantly vary compared to the general population. Autism characteristics often appear very early on in life and can impact communication, sensory processing, and behavior. If you have met one person with Autism…you have met one person with Autism as it looks different in everyone. Characteristics of Autism can overlap with other personality and mental health conditions. Psychological testing is a useful tool in clarifying what may actually be going on.
Common characteristics of an Autism Spectrum condition include difficulties with verbal and non-verbal communication, social skills confusion, social discomfort, intense areas of interest, rigidity in routines, physical and verbal behaviors used to stimulate or soothe, and sensory processing challenges. Autism is on a “spectrum”, which means that difficulties encountered with this condition can range from mild to severe.
Many higher-functioning individuals on the Autism Spectrum have gone undiagnosed throughout their life but have always felt as if something was “off”. The psychological testing process can be a validating and insight-generating process to better understand yourself and your unique strengths.