Autism is a common, neurodevelopmental, lifelong condition - a brain difference, not deficit - which affects several areas of functioning, including language, communication, social skills, and cognition (often in the form of executive functioning).

The evaluation and diagnosis process - regardless of outcome - is intended to provide meaningful self-understanding as an essential stepping stone to self-acceptance and self-love, paving the way for living authentically as we learn how to lower our masks. Gaining access to important accommodations in work and school settings will be a critical part of the evaluation process for some. Many will find that the level of self-awareness and validation that come with the diagnostic process is enough of a reason to pursue formal evaluation.

Many autistic adults have flown under the diagnostic radar despite spending our lives feeling like something doesn’t quite fit - persistent social awkwardness, confusing communication and relationship challenges, unusually deep interests, sensory and/or food preferences deemed “odd” by others - are a few examples of common challenges faced by autistic individuals.

Autistic people tend to experience co-occurring conditions, as autism has high comorbidity with anxiety, ADHD, gender dysphoria, depression, disordered eating behaviors, and more. Exhaustion and burnout from masking and camouflaging, or covering our true selves up in order to fit in, often play a significant role for adults seeking diagnosis.

We start with a 15-minute consultation to determine whether we are a good fit for working together.

Once we decide to move forward, the first step is a pre-diagnostic interview – an initial session to share about your concerns and questions, and to establish whether further evaluation is indicated.

Next, we will hold an in-depth diagnostic interview. This session is scheduled in a 2-hour window, during which we will delve more deeply into your experiences. You will be asked to complete standardized questionnaires (ADIR, ADOS, and/or others) on your own time before we meet for the diagnostic interview.

Over the next approximately 2 weeks, I will review all materials and prepare a detailed report explaining whether a diagnosis of autism is appropriate and how that determination was made. The report includes the results of all standardized assessments, pertinent details gathered during our interview, recommendations and resources for additional support, and, if warranted, differential diagnoses to consider.

We will meet once more to discuss the results, review the report, and discuss any remaining questions you may have. Additional support in the form of connecting to community resources, therapy, and more, is included in the individualized recommendations portion of this session.

Rate: $1400 (payment plan available)

I am pleased to offer adult autism assessment services with Princeton Center for MindBody Healing. I am passionate about working with neurodivergence and helping folks to better understand and accept themselves. As a late-diagnosed neurodivergent individual myself, I've felt the substantial shift that happens when things that had never made sense before start to come into focus. Discovering the way my own brain works and learning to navigate the world in ways that support that was a long and lonely process. A primary goal in offering autism assessment for adults relates to enhanced self awareness and compassion. Next to that, making sure that the process is a supportive one that you do not have to travel on your own is a matter of great importance. Regardless of outcome, our work together should be very positive, enlightening, and empowering.

My specialized, formal preparation involves "Diagnosis for Autistic Adults" by Professor Tony Attwood and Dr. Michelle Garnett. Professor Tony Attwood is considered to be one of the world’s foremost experts on Autism Spectrum Disorder. Dr Michelle Garnett is a clinical psychologist who has specialized in autism for nearly three decades. Her peer reviewed research has informed professional understanding of early detection, the female profile and the importance of good mental health for autistic individuals.

Taking a step toward pursuing diagnosis as an adult can feel exciting, nerve-wracking, and more. Please do not hesitate to reach out to explore your questions and and discover if working together on this process of discovery is the right step for you. I am looking forward to connecting.