Adolescent and Adult Autism Evaluations
Providing neurodiversity-affirming evaluations via telehealth throughout California
Autism spectrum is defined by differences in:
1. Language and communication
2. Social relationships and emotional responses
3. Sensory use and interests
Some people on the autism spectrum receive an autism spectrum diagnosis during childhood, but many people with autism are not identified until adolescence or adulthood. Autistic individuals who are not identified in childhood often have circumstances that have allowed them to “pass” in a primarily neurotypical world by masking their emotions, behaviors, and preferences. Masking is when a person hides their true feelings or experiences in order to be accepted which often leads to exhaustion, anxiety, and depression.
Diagnosis can be the first step to understanding your own neurodiversity. A diagnosis often leads to relief and feelings of validation. Learning about your own neurodivergence (whether you are autistic or not) can help you to advocate for yourself and create an environment suited to your unique needs and preferences.
Common reasons people seek an autism evaluation:
You have always felt you were “different”.
You have felt misunderstood by friends, family, or coworkers
You may be confused as to why your friendships, intimate relationships, or work relationships are so difficult.
You have seen another medical professional who you feel misdiagnosed you or didn’t see the whole picture.
You may have a child or a loved one who has recently been diagnosed with autism and it has made you question whether or not you are on the autism spectrum.
The Process Involves:
Semi-Structured Interview(s): I will meet with you via telehealth for a detailed conversation about your experiences with social interaction, communication, emotional responses, sensory processing, and special areas of interest. I use a standardized interview to gather information.
Questionnaires: Autism is a neurodevelopmental condition, which means symptoms are present during early development. As a result, we will be exploring experiences over the course of your lifetime and I will request permission to speak with and/or distribute questionnaires to family members to gain information about your early development. You will also be asked to complete standardized questionnaires to assess for autism spectrum and rule out other potential explanations.
Review of Academic Records: It is valuable to have an understanding of your functioning in school, therefore I will ask that you provide me with any academic records you have access to.
Comprehensive Psychological Report: You will receive a comprehensive report that includes information about your neuropsychological profile. The report will identify whether you meet criteria for an autism spectrum diagnosis. It will include information about your strengths and differences in the following areas: (1) language and communication, (2) social relationships and emotional responses, and (3) sensory use and interests. Your report will include tailored recommendations and resources.
Feedback Meeting: I will meet with you via telehealth to discuss the results of your evaluation and discuss any questions or concerns you may have. This meeting will occur approximately 2 weeks after completing the interview and receiving the completed questionnaires.
Followup Support: The evaluation fee includes support by phone, email, and telehealth to assist you in implementing the recommendations and/or finding well-matched treatment providers.
Optional ADHD Testing Add-On: Many people who are neurodivergent have both autism and ADHD. I also specialize in diagnosing ADHD and can add this to your assessment if you are interested.
Fees: Testing is customized based on the questions you’d like answered by testing, therefore the testing fee will be determined once we define the scope of testing. I offer a sliding scale based on income, if needed. I do not take insurance, however I will provide a copy of your paid invoice for you to use to get reimbursement from your insurance company.
Your Right to a Good Faith Estimate: You have the right to receive a “Good Faith Estimate” explaining how much your medical care will cost. Under the law, health care providers need to give patients who don’t have insurance or who are not using insurance an estimate of the bill for medical items and services. You have the right to receive a Good Faith Estimate for the total expected cost of any non-emergency items or services. This includes related costs like medical tests, prescription drugs, equipment, and hospital fees. Make sure your health care provider gives you a Good Faith Estimate in writing at least 1 business day before your medical service or item. You can also ask your health care provider, and any other provider you choose, for a Good Faith Estimate before you schedule an item or service. If you receive a bill that is at least $400 more than your Good Faith Estimate, you can dispute the bill. Make sure to save a copy or picture of your Good Faith Estimate.
For questions or more information about your right to a Good Faith Estimate, visit www.cms.gov/nosurprises or call 1-800-985-3059
Get in touch
If you have questions about psychological testing or want to schedule an appointment with me, please complete this form. I look forward to working with you!