Most of the referrals in our private practice are for assessments of children and adolescents; some are for adults. The most common assessments are for learning disabilities (‘psychoeducational’ assessments), giftedness, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, high functioning autism spectrum disorder (‘Asperger’s), and emotional disorders. I have also worked extensively with school boards and continue to be a consulting psychologist for New Path Youth and Family Services and the Durham Family Court Clinic.
As a psychologist, I am able to diagnose. However, a diagnosis is only of value if it leads to benefits for the person. Much of our work, therefore, emphasizes the importance of using a wide variety of resources and approaches to overcome the presenting challenges.