Neurodiversity: What it is and how a Psychological Evaluation can help?

“Neurodiversity” or "Neurodivergence" are popular terms used to describe differences in the way people's brains work. It includes diagnoses such as Learning Disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorders, and ADHD. With Neurodivergence, the idea is that there is no “right way" for the brain to work. Instead, there is a wide range of ways that we may perceive, understand, and respond to the world around us, and these differences should be embraced and supported. (See "Child Mind Institute" for additional information at: https://childmind.org/article/what-is-neurodiversity/#:~:text=“Neurodiversity”%20is%20a%20popular%20term,to%20be%20embraced%20and%20encouraged).

A Psychological Evaluation may support Neurodivergent individuals in several ways. First, a diagnosis may be made following an evaluation, if applicable. A diagnosis helps providers to determine the most appropriate evidence-based service(s) that may address an individual's specific areas of need. In addition, with a diagnosis from a Clinical Psychologist following an evaluation, these services may be covered by the individual's medical insurance or provided by their school/employer. The evaluation findings will also help to better understand the individual's areas of strength and need and may provide valuable insight into the underlying causes of areas of concern. This information may assist in determining personalized supports that an individual may need to thrive in various environments and may be used to support accommodation requests at work or school. 

Contact us by phone or via the contact form below to schedule a free 15-minute phone consultation with our Clinical Psychologist.