Diagnostic evaluation is the process of determining if someone meets the clinical criteria for a diagnosis, like autism and ADHD.

In our country, diagnostic evaluation typically uses the DSM-5-TR criteria. When used directly, this language can feel pathologizing. In order to create a neuro-affirming experience, we designed an interview process that asks thoughtful, affirming questions, while ensuring we clinically meet the DSM criteria for autism. For ADHD, we use the DIVA-5 interview model. For both, we also invite clients to complete self-assessments; while this is optional, it gives the chance for additional data to support diagnosis. All of the tools we use were carefully selected to create an experience that leaves clients feeling genuinely seen and heard.

We follow the Lived Experience Informed Practice model, meaning lived experience is the foundation for our diagnostic exploration. We then blend this with an understanding of your life circumstances, an intersectional lens, clinical best practice, and evidence-based research to make meaning.

We engage you collaboratively during this process, which includes: gathering a detailed history through an intake questionnaire; completing self-assessments (optional); conducting a clinical interview session; writing a detailed evaluation report; and finally, collaboratively reviewing the report, evaluation outcomes, and recommendations.

Yes! In the Commonwealth of Virginia, under Virginia Code §54.1-3500, licensed clinical social workers (LCSW) can provide diagnostic services at the autonomous practice level and use the DSM for diagnostic evaluation. (Learn more here.) We map our diagnostic reports back to the DSM-5-TR for this reason.

While LCSWs cannot conduct full neuropsychological testing, autism and ADHD evaluations don’t require this for diagnosis. While there are some reasons a Doctorate-level provider may be necessary, such as when applying for SSDI, our method gives access to a clinical diagnosis, detailed written report, recommendations, and resources. We also can include accommodation letters for work and school (at no extra charge).

This section contains a lot of info, but we include this for our fellow autistic/ADHD folx who benefit from clear, detailed expectations.

You will complete our client inquiry form to let us know you would like to schedule. We will then email you with date/time options, and you will be expected to reply to schedule. We see clients on Fridays, usually scheduling about 1-3 months out.

Once you schedule your session, you will be emailed a link through Carepatron, our HIPAA-compliant portal. You are expected to establish your portal for ongoing communication. This step also includes signing your client consents.

You will also receive your intake questionnaire and invoice through the portal. The portal set-up, signed consents, completed questionnaire, and paid invoice need to be done at least 72 hours prior to your scheduled interview session. Make sure you give yourself 1-2 hours for the questionnaire! Doing this in advance allows us to have shorter interview sessions, which feels more neuro-affirming than a full-day interview.

During your clinical interview session, you are invited to stim, take breaks, and care for yourself in whatever ways you need. If in-person, our office has lots of comfy seating, plenty of fidgets to choose from, and natural lighting. Here is a picture of what it looks like! (We also have the option of an office with no windows for light sensitive folx.) You can also bring whatever you need to feel supported (fidgets, comfort items, food, drinks, etc.) and wear comfy clothes — we model inclusivity by doing the same!

Typically about 1-3 weeks after your interview session, you will have a 25-minute report review session; this will be done via video. If you chose the split payment option, the final payment will also be due 24 hours before this session. During the review, we invite you to ask questions and give feedback to ensure the report feels aligned, affirming, and reflective of your needs. We also give work and school accommodation letters at this time.

Once you’ve had time to read your report in detail, you might have questions or need more support. These reports are designed to be used with your primary therapist, or you can schedule a self-discovery session with our clinician!

We provide services both in-person and virtually via telehealth.

Our office for in-person sessions is in Richmond, VA near Bryan Park (address provided upon scheduling). The space is owned by The Properties of Light and is thoughtfully neuro-inclusive.

We also provide virtual sessions throughout Virginia, as long as the client is in the state at the time of the session. Our video conferencing platforms are secure and HIPAA-compliant.