A word about neurodivergence assessments
First, let's take a moment to acknowledge that, as a neurodivergent mental health professional, I understand that I'm in a unique place of privilege. I understand that there are many reasons that a person may not have been able to access a diagnosis- cost, access, and discriminatory or outdated beliefs about what a neurodivergent person "looks like." I believe that there are people with valid (self)diagnoses who have "slipped through the cracks" of professional diagnosis.
When first meeting a new client, it can be helpful to know the reason behind a desire for assessment (personal reassurance versus treatment of personal distress, seeking school or work accommodations). Although an Ohio PMHNP is permitted to assess for the presence of all conditions listed in the DSM, some work or school locations will request assessment by a provider with a doctorate-level credential. You can usually check with employee human resources or a student office of accessibility/disability services for this information.
Training and Assessment tools
I have been trained through my Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner certification, with more than 250 targeted clinical hours in neuropsychological testing (focused on autism/ADHD), as well as over 400 hours of direct clinical care and specialty training in ADHD and Autism support.
I use a combination of scientifically validated tests for you and people who may know you well (now, in the past, or both), structured and semi-structured interviews (MIGDAS, DIVA), clinical assessment, and review of any available additional information such as medical records/testing, personal documents such as report cards, or personal client notes.
Assessment flow
No two assessments are the same; however, this will give you an overview. Depending on the reason you are coming to be assessed, expect to set aside 5 to 10 hours (or more) for work related to the diagnostic process (including computerized and paper testing, assessment interview appointments, gathering additional information, and coordinating with key people).
Based on the information you provided about your neurodivergence traits, I will select several computerized assessments before our first appointment.
Some of these assessments may be brief, taking less than five minutes for most people. Other assessments require more detailed responses and may take up to an hour. These longer assessments will focus on areas such as sensory difficulties, socialization and masking, executive functioning, thought processes, and the severity of specific symptom traits. After we meet, I will select additional tests based on the information you provide me.
We will meet in person or virtually over approximately six hours, typically divided into three two-hour appointments. The interview will include a thorough medical, social, educational, occupational, and developmental health history, as well as a semi-structured interview surrounding your interests, sensory preferences, and social traits and routines.