Neurodiversity-Affirming Evaluations in New Orleans
Respecting Strengths, Reducing Stigma
Every brain is unique, and every person deserves to be understood and supported for who they are. A neurodiversity-affirming evaluation emphasizes strengths as much as challenges, offering insight without stigma or judgment. Instead of focusing on what’s “wrong,” these evaluations highlight how an individual thinks, learns, and experiences the world — and how environments like school, work, or home can better support them.
What Does “Neurodiversity-Affirming” Mean?
The neurodiversity movement recognizes that conditions like ADHD, autism, and learning differences are natural variations in human brains, not deficits to be “fixed.” A neurodiversity-affirming evaluation:
Uses respectful, person-centered language.
Highlights individual strengths and abilities alongside areas of challenge.
Provides recommendations that are practical, supportive, and empowering.
Helps reduce shame or stigma while increasing self-understanding and confidence.
Who Benefits from a Neurodiversity-Affirming Evaluation?
Children who may be showing learning, attention, or social differences at school.
Teens navigating academic or social challenges and preparing for higher education.
Adults wondering if ADHD or autism may explain long-standing experiences, seeking accommodations, or simply wanting greater self-understanding.
What to Expect
Neurodiversity-affirming evaluations include:
A comprehensive interview to understand personal history and current concerns.
Standardized testing (cognitive, academic, or psychological, depending on need).
Rating scales or questionnaires for multiple perspectives.
A written report that is thorough, clear, and strengths-focused.
A feedback session to review findings, answer questions, and outline practical next steps.
Why This Matters
When evaluations are done through a neurodiversity-affirming lens, individuals and families walk away not only with answers but also with hope and validation. The process can help unlock educational supports, workplace accommodations, and therapeutic resources — while fostering resilience, self-confidence, and growth.
Getting Started
If you are seeking an evaluation that is comprehensive, compassionate, and affirming, I invite you to reach out. I also offer a free phone screening to help you decide if this process is right for you or your family.