FAQ's
Frequently asked questions
You will describe why you are interested in therapy and why "right now" The first hour session involves obtaining background information (family and social relationships, work history and current concerns). You are given the opportunity to ask me how I work as a psychologist in therapy (types of theoretical orientations) and strategies. In the 2nd session you will identify one or two goals of therapy that can be measured. Therapy sessions are 50 minutes and are aimed to address your goals for treatment.
Evaluations are separated into three virtual sessions. The first session is a 90 minute clinical intake interview (background info, including family, academic, social, and work history. Questions focus on your executive functioning (impulsivity, distractibility, memory, time management). For Autism evaluations, social, communication, and Restricted/Repetitive behaviors (RRB) are discussed. The second session is the completion of the interview in 60 minutes. The third appointment is an hour feedback session. Clinical impressions and recommendations are provided with opportunities to ask questions.
You will be given links to questionnaires about Autism spectrum disorder. You will also complete the Social responsiveness Scale (SRS-2) and someone who knows you well completes the SRS-2 other adult questionnaire. Both are computer scored. The CAARS-2 for ADHD is administered (computer scored) and someone who knows you well completes the SRS-2 Other adult questionnaire.
Many clients report feeling a mixture of emotions after the diagnosis of ASD. Feelings can range from validation and relief to frustration that symptoms weren't identified earlier in their lives. Many look forward to using the information to gain more knowledge about autism and ways to improve relationships. Self-advocacy is often a result of the evaluation process.
Some people prefer to have a detailed 10-12 page report which includes all the information from the interviews, all scores, interpretation of scores, recommendations and a list of resources for an additional fee. Others prefer to receive a one paragraph summary listing dates of sessions, questionnaires administered, diagnoses, and a list of resources (no fee).