Understanding Your Mind Starts Here. Comprehensive Autism Testing & Support for Every Age.
Understanding Your Mind Starts Here. Comprehensive Autism Testing & Support for Every Age in California.
Understanding Your Mind Starts Here. Comprehensive Autism Testing & Support for Every Age in New York.
- Telehealth Available
Rates: Vary based on complexity. Insurance Info
Common Challenges and Signs
Autism Spectrum Disorder is a unique condition that influences how individuals experience the world around them, particularly in social, sensory, and emotional contexts. Many people with autism may find it challenging to maintain eye contact, understand social cues, or navigate the unspoken expectations that come up in conversations. They may also have sensory sensitivities, feeling overwhelmed by certain textures, sounds, or lighting, along with internal sensations such as emotional frustration or intense fear.
Beyond these challenges, individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) often show a variety of traits that enrich their unique perspectives. For instance, they may engage in repetitive behaviors, such as rocking or hand-flapping, that provide comfort and stability. A love for routines is common, and any change to those routines can sometimes lead to feelings of anxiety or distress. Many have focused interests, diving deeply into specific topics or activities that ignite their passion and curiosity.
Transitions from one activity to another can pose challenges, as the unpredictability of new situations may feel daunting. Social communication can also differ, with some individuals finding it tough to take turns in conversation, understand humor, or pick up on subtle body language cues. Many find social environments to be particularly overwhelming, often wanting to retreat when faced with crowded or noisy settings.
Learning styles can be wonderfully diverse among individuals with ASD; they tend to thrive in structured environments that utilize visual aids and hands-on activities instead of traditional teaching methods. Furthermore, many individuals possess cognitive strengths, demonstrating remarkable attention to detail and analytical skills, particularly in areas like mathematics, technology, or art. However, emotional regulation can be a struggle for some, making it difficult at times to manage their feelings, which may manifest as outbursts or shutdowns when they’re overwhelmed.
It’s important to remember that these traits can vary widely from person to person, underscoring the uniqueness of everyone on the autism spectrum. By understanding and embracing these characteristics, we can foster a more inclusive and supportive environment that empowers individuals with ASD to shine in their own incredible ways.
Common Challenges and Signs
From a cognitive standpoint, autism often involves differences in how the brain organizes information. Children may have exceptional memory or excel in specific academic subjects while struggling with flexibility or abstract thinking. Adults may display high intelligence and deep knowledge in niche areas but find interpersonal ambiguity or multitasking particularly stressful. These patterns are not deficiencies. They reflect a distinct, valid way of processing the world.
At Susan Chi Psychology, we focus on understanding this cognitive diversity. Our evaluations explore not only challenges but also abilities, helping clients and families build insight, confidence, and advocacy skills for educational or workplace settings.
Relationship and Professional Impacts
Social misunderstandings can lead to loneliness, burnout, or feeling “out of step” in relationships and work environments. Adults with undiagnosed autism are often misperceived as aloof or uncooperative, when in fact they may be overstimulated or anxious. In romantic partnerships, differing communication styles can create tension that’s easily resolved once neurodiversity is understood and respected.
Why Testing Matters
Without an accurate diagnosis, individuals may experience chronic self-doubt or be misdiagnosed with anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, schizophrenia, or personality disorders. Testing for autism can be life-changing: providing validation, profound knowledge, and practical strategies that enhance daily life.
How Testing and Treatment Work
We use evidence-based assessment tools and developmental interviews to form a holistic understanding of each client’s social, cognitive, and emotional functioning. Our reports are written in clear, compassionate language and tailored for each individual.
Following testing, we provide targeted treatment referrals and skill-building recommendations, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for autism, social communication coaching, sensory regulation strategies, and structured support planning to achieve success at home and in the workplace. The entire assessment process is about helping clients feel seen, supported, and confident about thriving authentically.
Other Psychological Tests
Client & Professional Testimonials
*In accordance with APA Ethical Standard 3.05, testimonials listed on this site are anonymized. Permission was obtained after the clients concluded services. Clients were not reimbursed for their recommendations.
Insurance
Cancellation Policy
Scheduled appointments cancelled within 24 hours notice will be billed.