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ADHD and Autism Assessments

The brain and body systems are immeasurably complex. As our environments are diverse, so too are we. Gainesville Healing House celebrates neurodiversity and all the benefits our differences provide. We intend for our assessments to be affirming, strengths-based, empirically validated, and current. The process involves several steps, allowing us to more accurately capture client experiences.

What to Expect

If you’re interested in assessing for youth / adult ADHD, autism, or both, please call our office or submit an Appointment Request on this website. Our office manager will contact you to discuss scheduling, fees, and forms.

Assessing for ADHD costs $550 plus a one hour processing session for either $135 or the cost of your copay if insured by Aetna, UnitedHealthcare, Oscar, Oxford, or Cigna. There is a $250 deposit due within 24 hours of booking, and the balance will be collected at the start of your first session. When booking, we will schedule you for an initial, one hour session, and you will leave that session with additional assessments to complete on your own, in your own time. These must be completed to move forward. From there the therapist will compile the assessment data and contact you for the final one hour processing session where results will be discussed. Written reports are available for an additional $175.

Assessing for Autism costs $700 plus a one hour processing session for either $135 or the cost of your copay if insured by Aetna, Cigna, Oscar, Oxford, or UnitedHealthcare. There is a $350 deposit due within 24 hours of booking, and the balance will be collected at the start of your first session. When booking, we will schedule you for an initial, two hour session, and you will leave that session with additional assessments to complete on your own, in your own time. These must be completed to move forward. From there the therapist will compile the assessment data and contact you for the final one hour processing session where results will be discussed. Written reports are available for an additional $175.

Assessing for both ADHD and Autism costs $1200 plus a one hour processing session for either $135 or the cost of your copay if insured by Aetna, Cigna, Oscar, Oxford, or UnitedHealthcare. There is a $500 deposit due within 24 hours of booking, and the balance will be collected at the start of your first session. When booking, we will schedule you for an initial, two hour session, and you will leave that session with additional assessments to complete on your own, in your own time. We will then schedule you for an additional one hour session as well. These must be completed to move forward. From there the therapist will compile the assessment data and contact you for the final one hour processing session where results will be discussed. Written reports are available for an additional $175.

We recognize that, while still competitive, the financial cost is significant. It is our hope that you find these processes to be affirming, informational, and worth the investment.

Why We Affirm Neurodivergence

Neurodiversity refers to the concept that neurological differences, such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and other conditions, are natural variations of the human brain and should be recognized and respected as such. Embracing neurodiversity has several key benefits for individuals, organizations, and society as a whole:

    • Innovation and Creativity: Neurodiverse individuals often bring unique perspectives, problem-solving approaches, and creative ideas that can lead to innovation. Different ways of thinking can generate solutions that might not be considered by neurotypical individuals, driving progress in various fields.

    • Increased Problem-Solving Capacity: Diverse cognitive approaches can enhance a team’s ability to tackle complex problems. Neurodiverse teams are often better equipped to find solutions to challenging issues because they approach problems from multiple angles.

    • Inclusive Society: Embracing neurodiversity fosters a more inclusive society where people of all neurological profiles are valued and respected. This leads to greater equality, reduces stigma, and promotes the well-being of all individuals.

    • Maximizing Human Potential: Recognizing and supporting neurodiversity allows individuals to leverage their strengths and talents. When people are given the right support and accommodations, they can reach their full potential, contributing more effectively to their communities and workplaces.

    • Enhanced Collaboration: Neurodiverse teams can foster collaboration by encouraging different communication styles and ways of working. This can lead to more dynamic and effective teamwork, as individuals learn to appreciate and integrate diverse perspectives.

    • Greater Empathy and Understanding: Exposure to and understanding of neurodiversity can increase empathy and compassion in society. It encourages people to see the world from different perspectives and appreciate the variety of human experiences.

    • Improved Workplaces: Organizations that embrace neurodiversity can create more inclusive and supportive work environments. This often leads to higher employee satisfaction, reduced turnover, and a more engaged and productive workforce. Companies that are inclusive of neurodiverse employees may also attract top talent who value diversity.

    • Breaking Down Stereotypes: Embracing neurodiversity helps to challenge and dismantle stereotypes and misconceptions about people with neurological differences. It encourages society to move beyond narrow definitions of “normal” and appreciate the full spectrum of human potential.

    • Better Mental Health: By acknowledging and supporting neurodiversity, individuals can experience improved mental health and well-being. When people are accepted for who they are and provided with the resources they need to thrive, they are less likely to experience stress, anxiety, or depression related to trying to fit into a neurotypical mold.

    • Broader Cultural and Societal Growth: A society that values neurodiversity is more likely to foster cultural and societal growth. The diverse perspectives and experiences of neurodiverse individuals can contribute to the richness of cultural expression, social development, and community resilience.

Overall, neurodiversity enhances society by promoting a more inclusive, innovative, and compassionate world where all individuals, regardless of neurological differences, can contribute and thrive.

Potential Risks

Formal diagnoses, while important for aligning supports, accessing appropriate resources, and affirming identities, can come with potential risks and challenges. Below are some reasons to NOT get formally diagnosed:

Much of the autistic community is self-identifying and was long before evaluations existed. There is a considerable financial cost, and some standardized assessments are available for free. Some states have mandatory diagnosis reporting laws to create registries and databases regarding autistic citizens (Florida does not currently). Some states seek to ban gender-affirming care for autistic trans people due to perceived issues of competence. Some countries do not allow diagnosed autistic people to immigrate. Some countries deport immigrants whose children receive an autism diagnosis. Like many mental health diagnoses, both ADHD and autism may be grounds for US military dismissal and/or ineligibility per the DoD. Like many mental health diagnoses, both autism and ADHD can affect life insurance coverage. Like many mental health diagnoses, it may affect custody issues and could come up in court. Like many mental health diagnoses, one may need further assessments for FAA approval if seeking to pilot. Like many mental health diagnoses, it could be relevant in jobs requiring high level security clearances. Finally, like many mental health diagnoses, there may be increased social stigma. More information on these factors can be found:

Federal petition to change registry laws to align with ethics:

Please note, as masters-level, licensed mental health clinicians at Gainesville Healing House, we are not doctoral-level psychologists. This assessment is thus not a neuropsychological evaluation. This assessment cannot be used for federal disability paperwork. This assessment cannot be used for federal DoE IEPs. This assessment cannot prescribe medications or qualify as medical advice. This assessment can be useful for self-knowledge, for 504 plans, workplace accommodations, school accommodations, and for showing other healthcare providers.