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# Dr. Jessica Myszak: Get expert psychological testing and evaluation for autism, ADHD, and more. We offer caring and accurate assessments to help you understand your needs.

## Sitemaps
[XML Sitemap](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/sitemap_index.xml): Includes all crawlable and indexable pages.

## Posts
- [Understanding the Intense World Theory and What It Means for Autistic People and their Families](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/the-brain-that-feels-too-much-a-new-way-of-understanding-autism/): Most frameworks for understanding autism are built on deficiency models. In the current DSM-5-TR diagnostic criteria, core autistic features include "persistent deficits in social communication and social interaction," with "deficits in social-emotional reciprocity," "deficits in nonverbal communicative behaviors," and "deficits in developing and maintaining relationships." Support for autistic people has generally focused on addressing less social engagement, less communication, and less flexibility. But one theory proposes that we may have this backward. What if the autistic experience isn't one of too little, but rather involves far, far too much?
- [When Help Hurts: What Parents Need to Know Before Choosing a Residential Treatment Program](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/when-help-hurts-what-parents-need-to-know-before-choosing-a-residential-treatment-program/): I work with a lot of families who arrive at Help and Healing Center exhausted. They’ve tried everything: changed schools, adjusted medications, rearranged the entire household around their child’s needs. Their child is refusing school, melting down for hours, becoming aggressive, or withdrawing so completely that they’re barely present. When someone mentions residential treatment, parents often feel a wave of desperation and relief at the same time. Finally, something serious enough to match what they’re living through.
- [Second opinions That Evaluation Didn’t Feel Right. Here’s What to Do Next.](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/seeking-a-second-opinion-after-an-incomplete-evaluation/): Getting an evaluation takes courage, money, and time. Leaving with results that feel wrong, incomplete, or dismissive can be devastating. You deserve the truth.
- [Emotional Regulation and PDA: An Examination of What It Is, Why It’s Hard, and What Actually Helps](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/emotional-regulation-and-pda/): Emotional regulation is something we all do throughout the day, often without realizing it. It shows up both in small moments, like pausing before responding to a frustrating email or taking a breath when you can’t find the socks you want to wear, and in larger ones, like managing intense feelings of overwhelm, anxiety, or other emotional reactions.
- [Understanding Pathological Demand Avoidance in Autism](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/understanding-pathological-demand-avoidance-autism/): This common question echoes in the minds of many parents and caregivers. It's not always defiance—it may be pathological demand avoidance in autism, a lesser-known but increasingly recognized profile on the autism spectrum.
- [Introducing New Follow-Up Consultation Sessions](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/introducing-new-follow-up-consultation-sessions/): To better support families through this process, we are now offering follow-up consultation sessions designed to bridge the gap between evaluation and real-world application. These sessions give families a dedicated space to ask questions, review recommendations, and develop strategies that genuinely fit their child and their lifestyle.
- [What is the Safe and Sound Protocol?](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/what-is-the-safe-and-sound-protocol/): The Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) is a gentle, evidence-based tool designed to help your nervous system shift out of chronic defence mode and into a state where connection, safety, and growth become possible. I’m excited to offer SSP in my practice now because I’ve seen how life-changing it can be for people—especially those who have tried traditional strategies but still feel “on edge” or disconnected.
- [Demand Avoidance in PDA](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/demand-avoidance-in-pda/): A neurodiversity-affirming look at demand avoidance in PDA
- [What Actually Helps a PDAer Feel Safe? Understanding safety from a nervous system perspective](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/what-actually-helps-a-pdaer-feel-safe/): Understanding safety from a nervous system perspective. If you’ve ever supported someone with a PDA profile—or you are one—you’ve probably seen how quickly things can spiral when demands are involved. But what often gets overlooked is why PDAers respond the way they do.
- [What Comes Next? Navigating Life After an Autism Diagnosis](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/whats-next-after-autism-diagnosis/): For many adults, receiving an autism diagnosis can be a profound and validating moment. It can bring clarity to lifelong patterns, ease years of self-doubt, and open the door to self-compassion and understanding. But that doesn’t mean it’s easy.
- [Wondering If You Are Autistic? Start Your Journey Here](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/wondering-if-you-are-autistic-start-your-journey-here/): If you’ve ever searched “Am I autistic?”, you’re not alone. Many adults begin exploring the possibility of autism later in life, often after years of feeling different, misunderstood, or exhausted by masking. It can be overwhelming to sift through, and it's challenging to determine what information is accurate and reliable. As a psychologist specializing in adult autism evaluations, I aim to create this blog post as a starting point for individuals exploring neurodivergence and considering whether an assessment is a suitable next step.
- [10 Autistic Adult Recommendations](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/autistic-adult-recommendations/): There are no medications “for autism,” but many autistic adults benefit from treatment for co-occurring conditions like anxiety, depression, ADHD, or sleep disorders. If these challenges interfere with your daily life, talk to your doctor or psychiatrist about possible options. You may also want to speak with a neurologist, especially if you experience chronic sleep disturbances—these are common among autistic adults and can greatly affect both mental and physical well-being.
- [Body Doubling Can Really Work! Try A Free Session Today](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/body-doubling-a-productivity-tool-for-neurodivergent-minds/): Dr. Jaime Long is doing something exciting this month, and she wrote this blog to share more information about this with friends and clients of the Help and Healing Center. Learn more about body-doubling below!
- [Looking for Resources for Autistic Adults? We’ve got you!](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/looking-for-resources-for-autistic-adults-weve-got-you/): When it comes to accommodations, tools and resources are much easier to find than they used to be! If you are looking for some new fidgets, a helpful book, a website to explore, or some ways to combat sensory overload, here are some of my favorites!
- [TikTok Ban Is A Loss For Neurodivergent Adults](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/tiktok-ban-is-a-loss-for-neurodivergent-adults/): Over the past few years, TikTok has emerged as more than just a platform for dance trends and viral challenges. For many neurodivergent adults, it has been a vital space for connection, education, and expression. The platform’s unique format—short, visually engaging videos combined with a highly personalized algorithm—has fostered a sense of community that many neurodivergent individuals have struggled to find elsewhere. But with TikTok’s looming ban in the United States, creators and consumers alike are grappling with the loss of a crucial support system.
- [Understanding Masking: How to Support Authentic Self Expression](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/understanding-masking-how-to-support-authentic-self-expression/): Masking doesn’t just affect children—it’s a common experience for many neurodiverse adults, especially those with autism or ADHD. For adults, masking involves hiding or adjusting behaviors, emotions, and responses to fit in, avoid judgment, or meet societal expectations. While it can be a useful social tool, masking over long periods can lead to stress, exhaustion, and even mental health challenges. In this post, we’ll explore the concept of masking in adults, why it happens, and practical strategies to help adults address it and support their well-being.
- [Understanding Masking: Helping Neurodiverse Kids Thrive](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/understanding-masking-in-children/): Masking, or camouflaging, occurs when a child hides their natural behaviors to fit in or avoid negative attention. It is common for neurodiverse kids, like those with autism or ADHD. Masking can be tiring and emotionally difficult for these kids. It often goes unnoticed by parents, teachers, and friends, but learning about it and finding ways to help is essential for supporting their well-being and self-expression.
- [Maximizing Your Insurance Benefits for Mental Health](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/maximizing-your-insurance-benefits/): If you find that the best psychologist or therapist for your needs is out of network, there are still ways to make the most of your insurance benefits.
- [Parenting Neurodiverse Children: Strategies and Support](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/parenting-neurodiverse-children/): Parenting neurodiverse children, whether they have autism, ADHD, PDA or another condition, brings unique rewards and challenges. These children experience the world differently and often have varying needs compared to neurotypical peers. For parents, finding the right balance between providing support and fostering independence can be challenging—which can be especially interesting when parents themselves are neurodiverse (which is often the case). With the right coping strategies and a strong support system, families can create an environment where neurodiverse children thrive.
- [Back-to-School Tips for Neurodiverse Families and PDAers](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/easing-the-transition-back-to-school-for-neurodiverse-families-including-pdaers-practical-tips-for-all-ages/): As summer days gradually give way to the cool, crisp air of autumn, many families begin preparing for the transition back to school. This time of year is often filled with anticipation, excitement, and—let’s be honest—more than a little bit of stress. For neurodiverse families, including those with PDAers (children and adults with pathological demand avoidance), these feelings can be magnified as the shift in routines, new social dynamics, and sensory demands create challenges that may feel overwhelming. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or someone supporting a neurodiverse loved one, understanding how to ease this transition is essential. Here are a few practical tips that can make this seasonal shift smoother for everyone involved.
- [Autistic Adults Are Getting Their Moment In The Media](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/autistic-adults-in-the-media/): It seems like everywhere you turn, the spotlight is shifting to adults who are just now discovering that their quirks, habits, and lifelong struggles might actually be a sign of autism. From the glossy pages of major publications to prime-time TV slots, late-diagnosed autism is finally getting its well-deserved moment in the sun. But why the sudden interest, and what does it mean for autistic adults and their families?
- [How To Supporting a Loved One Newly Diagnosed with Autism?](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/how-to-supporting-a-loved-one-newly-diagnosed-with-autism/): Receiving an autism diagnosis as an adult can be a profound and life-altering experience. For many, it brings a sense of relief and understanding, but it can also be overwhelming and challenging. As a friend or family member, your support can make a significant difference in their journey. Here are some insights and advice shared by autistic adults that can help you provide meaningful support.
- [Is it AuDHD?: When to Consider an ADHD Evaluation along with Autism](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/audhd-adhd-evaluation-with-autism/): To make this even more challenging, traits of one condition can sometimes “cover” traits of the other. For example, untreated ADHD can sometimes mean that hyperactive and impulsive traits are much more obvious than autistic traits, or unaccommodated autistic traits can sometimes seem much more apparent than inattentive traits. Because of this, it is fairly common for a person to be diagnosed with one condition years before the second condition is diagnosed, although the two can also be diagnosed at the same time. Recognizing the similarities and understanding when to pursue an ADHD evaluation can be crucial for individuals who may already be diagnosed with Autism or those who are wondering if it makes sense to be evaluated for both autism and ADHD.
- [4 Takeaways from a PDA Clinical Consultation Group](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/takeaways-from-a-pda-consultation-group/): When you work in a private practice psychologist, you have to create your community. While I get to know many lovely clients and other professionals who work with my clients, it can sometimes feel a bit like I am on an island. Last fall, I had the opportunity to join a PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance) clinical consultation group with several other professionals who came together through PDA North America.
- [Share Your Insights to Help Improve Autism Research](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/share-your-insights-to-help-improve-autism-research/): Hello community! I have some exciting news to share, especially for those of you in the autism community or those who work closely with individuals on the autism spectrum. The Interagency Autism Coordinating Committee (IACC), in collaboration with the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) Office of National Autism Coordination (ONAC), is asking for public input on a very important topic: co-occurring physical and mental health conditions in autistic individuals.
- [Find Support and Community in the Autistic Network](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/find-support-and-community-in-the-autistic-network/): And for anyone trying to understand their place in this vast spectrum, there's help and support available. Enter the Autistic Support Network – a community ready to share, support, and journey with you, making sure no one feels alone in their discovery and growth.
- [OCD Treatment for Autistic People](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/effective-ocd-treatment-options-for-autistic-people/): Here is an exciting guest blog post written by my local colleague Dr. Bethany Walker. Dr. Walker loves to help clients process and manage OCD symptoms, and she wrote this blog to help explain how OCD and autism are related. Dr. Walker works with clients over telehealth, and if you are interested in learning more about her and her practice, her contact information is at the end of this post!
- [Chicago Parent Support Group for Autism and ADHD](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/chicago-parent-support-group-for-autism-and-adhd/): For many people, being a parent is one of the most challenging adventures they have—there can be tons of uncertainty, stress, and more---but it is also incredibly rewarding.  When I work with families, I strive to provide them with a variety of resources that might make their lives a little easier—and this is just that! A local colleague is starting a mother’s support group for parents of neurodiverse children, and I wanted to share this information in case anyone is searching for something like this! There are options for both in-person and virtual groups, to make it more accessible for parents. If this is of interest to you, I encourage you to check it out!
- [Understanding Neurodiversity: Embracing the Spectrum](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/understanding-neurodiversity-embracing-the-spectrum/): You hear a lot about neurodiversity these days, and in this blog, I’d like to dive into what neurodiversity means and why it matters!
- [Assessing for Autism in High Masking Adults](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/assessing-autism-in-high-masking-adults-for-accuracy/): How do we assess for autism when there is a high level of masking, especially among women? I want to share this information with prospective clients, since this can be a source of significant anxiety for many people.
- [Understanding Imposter Syndrome in Neurodivergent People](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/imposter-syndrome-neurodivergence/): Are you familiar with the term "imposter syndrome"?
- [Embracing Mental Health Care and Seeking Support](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/embracing-mental-health-care-and-seeking-support/): In this guest blog, I invited Shauna Larson to share some information about mental health and some of the common misconceptions regarding diagnosis and treatment options. Check out this informative article about mental health and possible treatment methods.
- [Tips for Sharing Your Autism Diagnosis with Confidence](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/tips-for-sharing-your-autism-diagnosis/): In this guest blog, I asked Malk Palmer, an autistic blogger, to share some information about a topic that many newly diagnosed adults worry about—disclosing an autism diagnosis to others. He shared some great tips and things to think about, and if you are considering having conversations with others on this topic, I think you’ll find some helpful information here!
- [Neurodiversity Affirming Mental Health Assessments](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/neurodiversity-affirming-mental-health-assessments/): Have you ever felt misunderstood or mislabeled by a mental health provider? Or perhaps you've observed a loved one's struggle with feeling truly seen or heard during their mental health journey? These are far too common experiences, particularly for those within the neurodiverse community.
- [Understanding Autism and OCD while Embracing Neurodiversity](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/understanding-autism-and-ocd-while-embracing-neurodiversity/): Autism and OCD are two neurological conditions which often intertwine, and their co-occurrence presents unique challenges and opportunities for growth. It’s important to understand the similarities and differences between autism and OCD, shedding light on the incredible diversity of the human mind. We can embrace the concept of neurodiversity while also offering strategies and resources to help support those living with both conditions.
- [Understanding the Rise In Adult Autism Assessments Today](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/understanding-the-rise-in-adult-autism-assessments-today/): The surge in adult autism assessments reflects a growing awareness and recognition of autism spectrum characteristics among individuals themselves. The extensive research, self-reflection, and exploration undertaken before seeking an evaluation demonstrate a genuine desire to better understand one's own identity and experiences. While there are no official numbers on the validity of self-diagnosis and self-identification of autism, the professionals I know who conduct these evaluations suggest that the majority of individuals who do the research and strongly suspect they are autistic are indeed on the autism spectrum.
- [Why Are So Many Adults Getting Diagnosed with Autism?](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/why-are-so-many-adults-getting-diagnosed-with-autism/): Have you noticed more people talking about being on the autism spectrum? Maybe you’re even starting to wonder if you could be autistic too. You’re not alone! There has been a big rise in adult autism diagnoses in recent years. But why is this happening?
- [Could You Have PDA? The Surprising Symptoms You Might Be Missing](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/could-you-have-pda-recognizing-the-signs-and-symptoms/): Are you someone who struggles to follow directions or feels overwhelmed by even the simplest of tasks? Do you find yourself constantly coming up with excuses to avoid doing things that others find easy? If so, you might have PDA - Pathological Demand Avoidance.
- [Best Self Care Tips for Autistic Adults for Well Being](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/self-care-for-autistic-adults/): Self-care can be challenging for autistic adults. The world isn’t always designed to meet your needs, and figuring out how to care for yourself mentally, physically, and emotionally can feel overwhelming. But it doesn’t have to be!
- [Forge Your Own Way – Your Neurodiverse Marriage – Guest Blog By Cheri Timko](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/building-a-strong-and-happy-neurodiverse-marriage/): A Neurodiverse/Neurotypical Marriage is a complex relationship.  Neurodiversity comes in a variety of forms. Each relationship variety presents unique challenges for a long-term relationship. These relationships don't look like most of those in movies or shows. There are few if any examples of how to have a great one.
- [Join a Supportive Online Community for Autistic Adults](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/join-a-supportive-online-community-for-autistic-adults/): Are you an autistic adult looking for support, understanding, and community? The Autistic Support Network (ASN) is here to help. ASN is a free online community designed to provide a safe and welcoming space for autistic adults to connect, ask questions, and share their experiences. If you often feel alone in your journey, ASN is the perfect place to find like-minded people who truly understand what you’re going through.
- [Help and Healing Center is Growing!](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/help-and-healing-center-is-growing/): Help and Healing Center is Growing! Meet Our Newest Clinician, Dr. Jaime Long!
- [Understanding Executive Functioning and Its Impact on Daily Life](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/executive-functioning/): Executive functioning refers to a set of mental skills that help you manage time, stay organized, focus, and control impulses. These skills are essential for everyday tasks like planning, following instructions, and adapting to new situations.
- [Building Connection in a Neurodiverse Marriage](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/building-connection-in-a-neurodiverse-marriage/): If you're in a neurodiverse marriage, you may have realized that your relationship doesn’t follow the typical patterns seen in movies or books. That’s completely okay. Every relationship is unique, and there’s no single way to create a strong, loving bond.
- [How Are Eye Contact and Autism Related?](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/how-are-eye-contact-and-autism-related/): Autism is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects a person’s social interaction, communication, and behavior. Lack of eye contact is one of the early signs of autism in children, and many articles mention differences in eye contact as one of the “red flags” for autism in young children.
- [Understanding Autism in Women Signs and Diagnosis](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/autism-and-women/): When diagnosing autism in adults, there are key differences between how it appears in men and women. Many women go undiagnosed for years because autism traits in females can be subtle and easily overlooked. Over time, research and personal stories have helped shed light on how autism presents in women, leading many to recognize their own experiences through books, websites, and social media.
- [Understanding the Differences Between Autism and Introversion](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/introversion-or-autism/): Autism and introversion are both often misunderstood concepts. Autistic people are often thought of as uninterested in conversation or social interaction, when in reality, many autistic people just have difficulty with back-and-forth conversation. They may be interested in topics that others find dull, or they may have difficulty reading social cues. However, this doesn't mean that they don't value relationships.
- [Comprehensive Psychiatric Testing for Mental Health](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/psychiatric-testing/): There is a NYT article that came out recently about mental health and there was a photo of a psychological test in it and many psychologists were pretty upset. Why is there such secrecy about psychological testing?
- [The Importance Of Self Care By Trapper Shafer](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/the-importance-of-self-care-by-trapper-shafer/): Caring for children, especially those with autism, can be emotionally and physically demanding. As a parent, you spend so much time focusing on their needs that it’s easy to forget about your own. However, self care isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. When you take care of yourself, you are better equipped to support your child and manage daily challenges.
- [The Journey of Autism Assessment By Trapper Shafer](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/autism-assessment-by-trapper-shafer/): My twins were diagnosed with autism in mid-2021, but the assessment and support process started over a year earlier. As an autistic adult, I recognized the early signs of autism in my sons. However, since my diagnosis came in adulthood, I had no experience with early childhood assessments.

## Pages
- [Section Library](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/section-library/)
- [Dr. Aimee Rovane](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/dr-aimee-rovane/)
- [Second Opinion Autism Evaluations (Adults, Children & PDA)](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/second-opinion-autism-evaluations/)
- [Independent Medical Exams (IMEs) for Veterans](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/imes-for-veterans/)
- [Follow-Up Consultation Services](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/follow-up-consultation-services/)
- [Our Psychometrist](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/our-psychometrist/)
- [Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP)](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/safe-and-sound-protocol-therapy/)
- [Testimonials](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/testimonials/)
- [Hiring](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/hiring/)
- [Join Us](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/join-us/)
- [Teen Autism Evaluations](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/teen-autism-evaluations/)
- [Support Staff](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/support-staff/)
- [Child Autism Evaluations](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/child-autism-evaluations/)
- [Adult Autism Evaluations](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/adult-autism-evaluations/)
- [Media And Press](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/media-and-press/)
- [ADHD Evaluations](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/adhd-evaluations/)
- [Autism Evaluations](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/autism-evaluations/)
- [Blog](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/blog/)
- [Privacy Policy](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/privacy-policy/)
- [Online Therapy](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/online-therapy/)
- [Location And Hours](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/location-and-hours/)
- [Psychological Evaluations For Adults](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/psychological-evaluations-for-adults/)
- [Fees And Insurance](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/fees-and-insurance/)
- [Parent Child Interaction Therapy](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/parent-child-interaction-therapy/)
- [What To Expect](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/what-to-expect/)
- [FAQs](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/faqs/)
- [Psychological Evaluations for Children](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/psychological-evaluations-for-children/)
- [Professional Qualification](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/professional-qualification/)
- [Contact](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/contact/)
- [Dr. Jessica Myszak](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/dr-jessica-myszak/)
- [Home](https://helpandhealingcenter.com/)