-
Disability Services
Let’s talk brass tacks. While this administration is playing Trojan horse with the issue of an Autism Registry (which is unconscionable), even more disturbing news is being released to less fanfare. First, let’s review. Robert Kennedy Jr. is ableist, anti-science, anti-American, and anti-autism. Now that we have reviewed the facts, lets wade into the waters.…
-
The Autism Registry
The word is out. Robert Kennedy, Jr. and the NIH are going to create a database of the health records of autistic individuals in order to work to uncover the causes of autism. Where is this health information coming from? Medicare and Medicaid records as well as private insurers, the VA, and the Indian Health…
-
Autism is not a Tragedy
[Disclaimer. I do not believe that autism is a tragedy. My personal experience with autism has led me to understand that for some, it is not benign either. Given the current political climate, I am adding the disclaimer that my support for the autistic community is very deep and personal, and that this blog is…
-
I want to be a normal zebra not an abnormal horse.
The sentiment that I often hear is that individuals seeking autism evaluations are looking for explanations of social isolation, bullying, exclusion, or social awkwardness outside of themselves. I want to be a normal zebra not an abnormal horse is a powerful statement made to me by a client years ago. This urgency is so relatable.…
-
Returning to Work
I am excited to be returning to work on 04.04.2025 after being cleared from medical leave. This has certainly been a long and unfortunate ordeal that I plan on putting in the rearview window. Starting tomorrow, I am excited to begin administering assessments and seeing YOU! I have missed getting to know you and being…
-
Opportunities for Autistic Young Adults
Many parents and caregivers have signed their autistic children up for summer enrichment camps during their childhoods. These camps have provided social skills training, help with life skills, and important educational opportunities. When children turn 18, these camp-style activities dry up. The needs of our kiddos do not change though. It can be hard to…
-
ADHD Diagnosis in Adults: Psychological Testing or Questionnaire?
A lot of adykts come to me to talk about their options regarding ADHD diagnosis. There are companies providing ADHD evaluations for $200. Why should you pay more? This is a great question, and I’m happy to tip you off to these companies if filling out a questionnaire is what you’re interested in. There are…
-
The DSM and Autism
It won’t come as a surprise to some of you, but the history of the DSM is a favorite topic of mine. Of particular interest, is the evolution of how autism has historically been diagnosed to its inclusion in the DSM-5-TR. I thought I’d share a little of my DSM joy. Autism, otherwise known as…
-
An Update
I wanted to take a minute to give an update those of you who are waiting on your assessments or are preparing to schedule one. On October 13, 2024, I was in a serious motor vehicle accident from which I am still recovering. I went on leave in early February after attempting to finish up…