Brief explanation Autism is a developmental difference that affects how a child communicates, connects with others, and experiences the world. It impacts both social communication (like back-and-forth conversation, understanding social cues, or using language) and patterns of behavior (such as strong interests, routines, or repetitive behaviors). Every child with autism is unique. Some children may have delayed language, while others may talk a lot but have difficulty with social interaction. Many have strengths, like attention to detail, deep interests, or unique ways of thinking. What evaluation looks like A comprehensive autism evaluation typically includes: Detailed developmental history Structured observation of your child’s communication and social interaction Standardized testing (when appropriate) Input from caregivers and sometimes teachers In some cases, formal psychological testing may be recommended to better understand learning, thinking skills, or overall development. Treatment/support overview Support focuses on helping your child communicate, connect, and thrive: Speech and language therapy Behavioral or developmental therapies Occupational therapy (for sensory or daily living skills) School supports and accommodations Parent coaching and guidance Medication management, when appropriate, to help with behaviors such as irritability, attention, anxiety, and to support sleep when needed.

Brief explanation ADHD affects a child’s ability to focus, stay organized, manage impulses, and regulate activity level. Some children are mostly inattentive (easily distracted), some are more hyperactive/impulsive, and many are a mix of both. What evaluation looks like We gather information from multiple sources to understand your child fully: Parent interview about behavior, development, and daily functioning Questionnaires from parents and teachers Review of school performance and reports Observation of your child during the visit We’re looking at patterns across home, school, and other settings. In some cases, formal psychological testing may be recommended to better understand attention, learning, or thinking skills. Treatment/support overview Treatment is individualized and may include: Parent strategies to support attention and behavior School supports (504 plan or IEP if needed) Therapy for executive functioning skills Medication (when appropriate), which can be very helpful for many children

Brief explanation Intellectual disability means a child learns and processes information more slowly than peers and may need extra support with communication, problem-solving, and daily living skills. In younger children, we may use the term developmental delay, which means a child is not yet meeting expected milestones in areas like speech, motor skills, learning, or social development. Some children with developmental delays go on to catch up over time, while others may later meet criteria for intellectual disability. We also focus on each child’s strengths, personality, and interests, which are just as important in helping them grow and succeed. What evaluation looks like Evaluation includes: Cognitive (IQ) testing Assessment of daily living skills (adaptive functioning) Review of developmental history School and therapy input This evaluation often includes formal psychological testing, which helps us understand your child’s learning and daily functioning in a detailed way. Treatment/support overview Support is focused on building independence and quality of life: Early intervention services (for younger children) Individualized education plans (IEP) Life skills and adaptive skill development Speech, occupational, or other therapies as needed Family support and long-term planning

Brief explanation Anxiety in children can show up as excessive worry, fear, avoidance, or physical symptoms (like stomachaches or headaches). It may affect home, school, sleep, or social situations. What evaluation looks like We assess: Types of worries or fears Triggers and patterns Impact on daily life Input from caregivers (and sometimes school) In some cases, psychological testing or rating scales may be used to better understand your child’s symptoms. Treatment/support overview Treatment often includes: Therapy (especially cognitive behavioral therapy, or CBT) Parent strategies to support coping School supports if needed Medication in some cases

Brief explanation Learning disorders affect specific academic skills like reading, writing, or math, even when a child is otherwise bright and capable. What evaluation looks like We review: School performance and work samples Input from parents and teachers In most cases, formal psychological or educational testing is needed to clearly identify a learning disorder and guide school supports. Treatment/support overview Support is targeted and skill-specific: Specialized instruction (e.g., reading interventions) School accommodations (IEP or 504 plan) Building confidence and reducing frustration

Brief explanation Depression in children and teens may look like persistent sadness, irritability, low motivation, changes in sleep or appetite, or loss of interest in things they used to enjoy. What evaluation looks like We explore: Mood and behavior changes over time Stressors or triggers Functioning at home, school, and with peers Safety (including thoughts of self-harm) In some cases, standardized questionnaires or psychological testing may be used to better understand mood and guide treatment. Treatment/support overview Support may include: Therapy (especially cognitive behavioral therapy, or CBT) Building routines and supports at home and school Medication when appropriate Close follow-up and monitoring If depression is severe or includes thoughts of self-harm or suicide, we will help connect your child with a child and adolescent psychiatrist for more specialized care and support.