Question 1

I'm interested in an assessment. How do I begin the process?

Accepted Answer

As a first step, please schedule a 15-minute complimentary, no-obligations consultation call so that we can better understand your assessment goals and answer any questions you may have about the evaluation process. This initial point of contact will allow us to determine if we are a good fit, as well as give us an opportunity to discuss next steps.

Question 2

Will the evaluation diagnose other conditions?

Accepted Answer

Our focus is primarily Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), as well as other psychological, personality, and mood/anxiety-related conditions. Since our evaluations are specialized and our process is quite streamlined, we generally focus on one or two diagnoses per assessment. If our evaluation suggests that a comprehensive assessment would be most helpful to consider other diagnoses, we may recommend that you follow up for an additional evaluation with a generalist or specialist in that area (i.e., learning disabilities, formal neuropsychological evaluation, etc.).

Question 3

Do you have a waitlist? What are the current wait times?

Accepted Answer

We don't operate with a waitlist, generally having consultation call openings and intake session openings within several weeks. Please check our website for consultation call openings or call the office to inquire about availability: (630) 296-5251

The timeline from collateral call to feedback session/report writing for an evaluation, granted that all paperwork is completed in a timely manner, all assessments are completed appropriately, and all collateral information (if needed) is collected smoothly, is 4-8 weeks.

Question 4

Do you accept insurance?

Accepted Answer

Most private insurance plans will cover some (or all) of the assessment process, depending on your plan. However, we do not verify your insurance coverage or provide an estimate of costs in advance of your appointments.

Currently, we are in-network with Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, and United HealthCare. Often, clients are required to pay a deductible, co-insurance, and/or co-pay, but since we see clients across the nation,  we ask that you call your insurance company to understand and confirm your coverage before your initial intake appointment.

On the other hand, you are also able to utilize out-of-network insurance benefits for the assessment process. If you opt to use such coverage, you may be able to receive reimbursement from your insurance carrier and we can provide you with a "superbill" to outline services.

Question 5

What are the pros and cons of a formal diagnosis?

Accepted Answer

Formal diagnoses can have significant impacts on your life. Here are some points to consider as you make the decision:

Pros: 
1. Access to supports and resources, including therapy, specialized workplace accommodations, education services, etc. 
2. Validation and understanding, especially if such diagnoses explain lifelong challenges and make it easier to understand yourself
3. Tailored treatment plans, individually working with healthcare providers to focus on how to function most effectively in your daily life 
4. Improved relationships, especially helping others understand the challenges you might face, ultimately reducing misunderstandings and bolstering communication
5. Self-awareness and self-advocacy, such that a diagnosis can be empowering by providing you with a framework to advocate for yourself more effectively

Cons: 
1. Stigma and labeling, especially the fear that having a formal diagnosis might lead to being labeled or treated differently, as well as the fear of discrimination and rights restriction (i.e., limiting access to gender-affirming care, immigration, military enlistment, adoption, parental rights, etc.)
2. Emotional and psychological impact, potentially bringing up feelings of frustration, grief, or sense of loss, as well as feelings of being "broken" or different in a negative way 
3. Cost and accessibility, notably if there are multiple rounds of or limited insurance coverage for testing, assessments, and consultations with specialists 
4. Limited or inconsistent expertise, including when you encounter professionals who misunderstand the nuances of diagnoses or overlook co-occurring conditions like anxiety, depression, etc. 
5. Risk of over-diagnosis or misdiagnosis, which can result in ineffective treatment options

Question 6

Are evaluations available in my state?

Accepted Answer

While we are licensed in Illinois, we are a member of the Psychology Interjurisdictional Compact (PSYPACT), which allows us to provide telehealth/remote services for clients in 40+ states. Please view the following map to determine if your state participates in the PSYPACT:

https://psypact.gov/mpage/psypactmap (https://psypact.gov/mpage/psypactmap)

Notably, some circumstances may require an in-office evaluation, which we are unable to accommodate at this time. For example, cognitive and IQ assessments are unable to be completed virtually. In such situations, we can help direct you to resources to get an evaluation completed in-person.

Frequently Asked Questions