I’ve never talked to anyone. I’m used to handling things on my own. Aren’t people who go to therapy weak?
Not at all. People who ask for help know when they need it and have the courage to reach out. Everyone needs help now and then. In our work together, I’ll help you explore and identify your strengths and how to implement them to reduce the influence of the problems you are facing.
What’s the difference between talking to you or my best friend or family?
The difference is between someone who can do something, and someone who has the training and experience to do that same thing professionally. A mental health professional can help you approach your situation in a new way– teach you new skills, gain different perspectives, listen to you without judgment or expectations, and help you listen to yourself. Furthermore, counseling is completely confidential. You won’t have to worry about others “knowing my business.” Lastly, if your situation provokes a great deal of negative emotion, and you’ve been confiding in a friend or family member, there is the risk that once you are feeling better you could start avoiding that person so you aren’t reminded of this difficult time in your life.
Why shouldn’t I just take medication?
Medication can be effective but it alone cannot solve all issues. Sometimes medication is needed in conjunction with counseling. Our work together is designed to explore and unpack the problems you are experiencing and expand on your strengths that can help you accomplish your personal goals.
Will a diagnosis change my identity?
For most, a diagnosis doesn't change who they are; it changes how they view their past. It replaces "I am lazy/broken/weird" with "I have a brain that processes dopamine differently" or "I have a highly sensitive nervous system." This shift in perspective is often the most therapeutic part of the entire process, fostering self-compassion and reducing the shame associated with lifelong struggles.
Why Consider Testing & Assessment Services?
Choosing to undergo testing is a significant step toward self-discovery and improved quality of life. Therapy is excellent for ongoing support, but psychological testing is a specialized diagnostic tool used to identify the "why" behind the struggle. While a therapist observes your behavior week-to-week, the testing process uses standardized, objective measures to pinpoint specific cognitive or emotional struggles. Testing provides a definitive starting point, ensuring that your time and money in therapy are spent targeting the right issues with the right strategies.
Can’t I just use an online screening tool?
While online quizzes can be a great starting point for self-discovery, they are not diagnostic. Professional testing goes deeper by ruling out "look-alike" conditions such as anxiety, trauma, or sleep disorders. For individuals who are high-masking or have high intelligence, standardized screenings often produce "false negatives." Our clinical expertise allows us to see the nuances that an automated quiz will miss.
Is it "worth it" to get diagnosed as an adult?
Absolutely. For most adults, a diagnosis is a profound "aha!" moment that reduces years of self-blame and "moral failing" narratives. Beyond the emotional relief, a formal report provides:
Legal Protections: Access to ADA accommodations in the workplace or 504/IEP plans in college.
Medical Clarity: Better guidance for your psychiatrist regarding medication management.
Targeted Therapy: The ability to work with a neurodiversity-affirming therapist on strategies that actually fit your brain’s wiring.
What is the "AuDHD" overlap?
It is estimated that 30% to 50% of autistic individuals also manifest ADHD symptoms. We specialize in identifying this specific "AuDHD" profile, where the need for routine (Autism) often battles the need for novelty (ADHD). Identifying both allows for a much more effective management strategy than treating one in isolation.
Do you offer general psychological or diagnostic evaluations?
Yes. Beyond specialized ADHD and Autism assessments, we offer comprehensive evaluations to identify a wide range of intellectual, emotional, and behavioral conditions. Whether you are seeking clarity on a complex mood disorder or simply want a deep dive into your cognitive strengths and weaknesses, we have the tools to provide a clear diagnostic picture.