Neurodivergent-Affirming Counseling &
ADHD/Autism Assessments
What Therapy Looks Like for Neurodivergent Minds
At DBT of South Jersey, we know that many neurodivergent people have spent years trying to adapt to systems that weren’t built with them in mind. Whether you're navigating ADHD, Autism, sensory sensitivities, or just feel like your brain works differently, therapy should feel like a place where you can finally exhale.
When you don’t have the language to understand how your mind works, it can lead to shame, self-doubt, and burnout. You might wonder why things feel harder for you, or why no one else seems as overwhelmed or exhausted by everyday life. Not knowing can take a real toll on your mental health.
That’s why we offer therapy that affirms your experience and centers your strengths. Our team is trained to work with neurodivergent clients in a way that honors your communication style, your needs, and your pace.
But not all therapy approaches are created with neurodivergent individuals in mind. For many, past experiences with support systems—especially those that focused on changing behavior rather than understanding it—may have felt invalidating or even harmful.
That’s why it’s important to name the difference.
Why DBT Over ABA for Neurodivergent Individuals?
ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) and DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) are two different approaches to therapy, but DBT is often considered more affirming and supportive for neurodivergent individuals, including those who are autistic.
ABA focuses on changing behaviors by rewarding certain actions and discouraging others, often with the goal of making someone behave more like a neurotypical person. This can be harmful for autistics because it can suppress their natural behaviors, like stimming, and may prioritize compliance over self-expression and autonomy.
In contrast, DBT focuses on helping individuals manage their emotions, build healthier relationships, and develop skills to navigate the world in a way that works for them. DBT validates and respects who you are, including your neurodivergent traits, rather than trying to change them. It teaches practical skills for regulating emotions and improving communication, all while promoting acceptance of yourself as you are. This makes DBT a more affirming option for neurodivergent people who are seeking a therapy that respects their unique experiences and helps them thrive.
Who Are These Assessments For?
This assessment service is for adults 18 and over who are interested in learning more about ADHD or Autism as it relates to their experiences.
Many seek out this process for validation, a deeper understanding of their identity, and tools to support authentic and effective living.
If you’re looking to explore the potential for an ADHD or Autism diagnosis and want guidance on how to navigate your daily life more fully, this may be a helpful step.
Who Would Not Be A Good Fit?
- Individuals under 18
- Those needing evaluations for legal, disability, or workplace accommodations that require assessments by a clinical psychologist or psychiatrist
- Those currently experiencing acute mental health crises, such as active psychosis or severe depression
- Individuals who are not currently interested in pursuing or exploring a potential diagnosis
What's Included in the Process?
The assessment process begins with an initial consultation where you’ll discuss your experiences, concerns, and goals. Our therapists will guide you in deciding whether testing is a good fit and which assessments would be most meaningful based on your needs.
What To Expect
Expect a supportive, affirming environment that values your unique experiences.
The assessment includes discussions about your background, challenges, and strengths, and incorporates various tools—like questionnaires and interactive activities—to provide a fuller picture of your neurodivergent traits.
We’ll work at a comfortable pace, and breaks are encouraged whenever you need them. The goal is to offer insights that empower and support your journey with clarity and self-acceptance.
Options and Pricing
General Consultation – $300
A focused one-hour session to address your specific questions, provide psychoeducation (if requested), and offer general resources and referrals. ADHD only diagnosis can be completed in the general consultation.
Informal Autism + ADHD Assessment – $750
Designed for self-discovery and personal understanding, this assessment helps validate your experiences without formal diagnostic documentation.
Includes:
- 1-hour clinical interview
- 1-hour feedback session
- Psychoeducation on your neurotype
- A one-page summary letter (not a formal diagnosis)
- Personalized resource and referral list
- Does not include standardized screening tools
Comprehensive Autism + ADHD Assessment – $1,750
A thorough evaluation designed for personal confirmation and potential accommodations (dependent on institution requirements).
Includes:
- 2-hour clinical interview
- 1-hour feedback session
- Sensory Profile Assessment
- Review of standardized self-assessments:
- RAADS-R, AQ, Monotropism Questionnaire, Brown Scale, ASRS-1
- Detailed written report with test results
- Personalized resource and referral lis
MIGDAS (Modified Interactive Autism Diagnosis System)
A strengths-based, sensory-focused assessment that explores your unique communication, sensory experiences, and behaviors.
BROWN Attention-Deficit Disorder Scale
Adult Sensory Inventory
This questionnaire identifies sensory preferences and sensitivities, such as responses to sounds, touch, and light. It helps paint a picture of how sensory processing affects your well-being.
Important: Read Before Scheduling
Please note that our evaluators conduct these assessments and provide supportive insights for those seeking clarity, self-affirmation, and identity confirmation.
However, if you are seeking disability or workplace accommodations, these assessments can serve as a helpful initial step, though you may also need to consult with a licensed psychologist or psychiatrist qualified to issue such documentation.
Our therapists have received advanced level training in providing assessments for ADHD and autism.
At our practice, we offer three levels of assessments to meet each individual’s unique needs, whether you’re looking for self-understanding, validation, or more in-depth exploration. Our process is designed to be affirming, flexible, and tailored to your comfort level. Each assessment is conducted at your pace, with breaks whenever needed, and focuses on creating a safe, validating experience. We understand how overwhelming assessments can feel and strive to make this process as supportive and affirming as possible. Whether you’re seeking answers, self-acceptance, or a deeper understanding of yourself, we’re here to help in a way that best fits your needs.
The general consultation includes a one-hour session to discuss your concerns, answer specific questions, and provide resources. This is a great option if you’re unsure about pursuing a full assessment but want guidance from a neurodivergent therapist.
The informal assessment is designed for self-discovery and validation, this assessment includes a 1-hour clinical interview and a 1-hour feedback session where we explore your neurotype, strengths, and challenges. You’ll receive a one-page summary letter (not a formal diagnosis) and a personalized list of resources. This is ideal for those who want confirmation and psychoeducation without the need for official documentation.
The comprehensive assessment is a thorough, in-depth evaluation that includes a 2-hour clinical interview, a Sensory Profile Assessment, and a review of standardized self-assessments such as RAADS-R, AQ, Monotropism Questionnaire, Brown Scale, and ASRS-1.** You’ll receive a detailed written report with your results and personalized recommendations. While this assessment can support accommodation requests, approval depends on the institution’s specific requirements.
If you or you have ever wondered, “Could this explain my experiences?” or felt different from others in ways you can’t quite put into words, an assessment may help provide clarity. Many adults seek an assessment after years of masking or struggling with misunderstandings about themselves. If you resonate with common traits of autism or ADHD and want to explore this further in a safe and validating space, an assessment could be helpful.
We offer two levels of assessments:
- Informal Autism/ADHD Assessment – A one-hour clinical interview followed by a feedback session. This is designed for self-discovery and personal validation.
- Comprehensive Autism/ADHD Assessment – A deeper evaluation including a two-hour clinical interview, sensory profile assessment, and review of standardized self-assessments (RAADS-R, AQ, Monotropism Questionnaire, Brown Scale, ASRS-1). This option provides a full written report and may be useful for accommodations (depending on institution requirements).
The timeline depends on the type of assessment:
- The Informal Assessment includes a one-hour clinical interview and a one-hour feedback session.
- The Comprehensive Assessment includes a two-hour interview, self-assessments, and a one-hour feedback session.
No referral is required. You can schedule an assessment directly through our website or by reaching out to us via email or phone.
Yes! We offer assessments both online and in person to accommodate different needs. Virtual assessments are just as thorough and affirming as in-person ones, allowing you to participate from the comfort of your own space.
- General Consultation: $250 – A one-hour session for questions, psychoeducation, and resources.
- Informal Assessment: $700 – Includes a clinical interview, feedback session, and summary letter.
- Comprehensive Assessment: $1,200 – Includes a clinical interview, standardized self-assessments, a sensory profile evaluation, and a full report.
We do not accept insurance, but we can provide a superbill for you to submit for possible reimbursement.
After your assessment, we’ll schedule a feedback session to discuss the results in detail. You’ll receive a summary letter or full report (depending on the type of assessment) and a personalized resource list to support your next steps. Our goal is for you to walk away feeling validated and empowered. If dialectical behavioral therapy is a good fit and meets your needs, we can also work on getting you scheduled with one of our therapists.
Yes! We offer neurodivergent-affirming therapy that is tailored to your specific needs. Therapy is designed to help you navigate life in a way that honors your unique strengths, rather than forcing you to fit into neurotypical expectations.
We specialize in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), an approach that helps with emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and navigating relationships—especially for neurodivergent individuals. We also have clinicians that utilize other modalities such as ART (accelerated resolution therapy), EDMR, and EXRP.
DBT is incredibly useful for managing emotional intensity, reducing burnout, improving executive functioning, and building self-compassion. Many neurodivergent individuals struggle with black-and-white thinking, sensory overload, or difficulty regulating emotions—DBT provides concrete skills to navigate these challenges effectively.
You can schedule an assessment by completing the form on this web page!
Our assessments are designed by and for neurodivergent individuals. Unlike traditional clinical settings that can feel cold, invalidating, or focused on “fixing” behaviors, we offer a space where you are fully accepted and understood. We take the time to ensure you feel safe, move at your pace, and prioritize validation over pathology. If you’re looking for an affirming, compassionate assessment experience, we’re here for you.
