Affordable Autism Testing in St. Louis | Enlitens
Our Autism Testing Cost: $700
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My Experience Speaks for Me
I’ve been a Board-Certified Counselor for over four years, with a Master’s in Clinical Counseling from Webster University. My work has been all about understanding the brain, especially within the neurodiverse community. Right now, I’m taking it even further by pursuing a doctorate in Behavioral Neuroscience.
But let’s get real—degrees are only part of the story. With nearly 14 years of hands-on experience, combined with my own neurodiverse lived experience, I’ve gained a deep understanding of what truly helps. I began my mental health journey supporting kids and families in the Autistic community, both one-on-one and in group settings. That’s where I discovered my passion for helping people embrace their uniqueness, rather than trying to fit into neurotypical molds.
This led me to career counseling, focusing on empowering Autistic individuals to thrive in their professional lives. As I transitioned into my role as a therapist, my focus remained on neurodiversity and trauma. During the height of COVID-19, I worked in ERs, providing crisis support across diverse populations, including those in neurodiverse communities. I don’t just know the theory—I’ve lived it.
If you’re looking for someone who understands, who’s been there, and who’s ready to help you move forward, I’m here. Together, we can make the changes that truly matter to you.
Learn more about using insurance for therapy in St. Louis or see our sliding scale counseling fees for affordable therapy options.
Your Step-by-Step Guide to Affordable Autism Testing in St. Louis
When you’re seeking an autism assessment, it can feel overwhelming to know where to start or what to expect. I totally get it. That’s why at Enlitens Counseling in St. Louis, I’ve created a process that’s not only straightforward but also supportive every step of the way. You’ll always know exactly what’s going on and how we’re working together toward your goals.
Here’s a breakdown of what affordable autism testing looks like with me:
- Initial Consultation: First, we start with a free, no-pressure consultation. This is just a friendly chat where we talk about your concerns and goals. It’s a judgment-free space to see if an autism assessment is right for you or your loved one.
- Scheduling and Deposit: If we decide to move forward with testing, I’ll help you schedule the assessment and collect a $100 deposit to secure your spot. This allows me to make sure I can give you my full attention and care during the process.
- At-Home Questionnaires: Before we meet in person, you’ll fill out some questionnaires at home. These help me understand your day-to-day experiences and paint a fuller picture of who you are and what challenges or strengths you may have.
- In-Person Assessment: During our in-person session, we’ll dive deeper through interviews, observations, and standardized testing. Don’t worry—it’s all done in a comfortable, supportive environment, with me guiding you through each step.
- Scoring and Report Preparation: After the session, I’ll analyze the results and prepare a detailed report. This will include your strengths, areas that might need more support, and a clear understanding of your autism diagnosis.
- Feedback Session: Once the report is ready, we’ll meet again to go over everything. This is your time to ask questions and make sure you feel empowered to take the next steps. Together, we’ll create personalized recommendations and connect you with the best resources for your journey.
The total cost for the autism assessment is $700, and I know affordability is important. That’s why I offer flexible payment options. You can pay the remaining $600 in two installments of $300 or all at once after the in-person assessment. My goal is to make sure cost isn’t a barrier to getting the clarity and support you deserve.
Ready to take the first step? Schedule your free consultation today, and I’ll walk you through the process. Whether you’re exploring insurance coverage or curious about our sliding scale fees, I’m here to support you every step of the way!
Our Commitment to Respectful and Individualized Autism Testing
At Enlitens Counseling in St. Louis, I see autism as a beautiful part of the diversity in the human experience. It’s never about what you can’t do, but about understanding your unique strengths and individuality. When we go through the autism testing process together, it’s about more than just a diagnosis—it’s about discovering and celebrating what makes you, you.
Here’s a closer look at the tools I use during the assessment process to understand your unique profile:
- MIGDAS-2: Sensory-Based Interview – This is a sensory-based interview where we explore how you interact with the world, your interests, and your sensory experiences. It’s a way to ensure your voice is front and center throughout the process, and it helps me better understand how you experience the world.
- SRS-2: Social Responsiveness Scale – This questionnaire focuses on social communication and relationships, helping us understand any challenges or strengths you have when navigating social situations. It’s really about understanding how you connect with others so I can better support you.
- CAT-Q: Camouflaging Autistic Traits – Many people on the spectrum mask or hide their traits to fit in socially. The CAT-Q helps us explore how masking may be part of your experience, and how it impacts your well-being.
- Monotropism Questionnaire: Exploring Interests – This tool helps me get to know your passions and how they shape the way you see the world. Your interests are a key part of your unique profile, and understanding them is essential in celebrating your strengths.
- Strengths-Based Focus – The assessments I use are designed to highlight your strengths and understand where support could be most helpful. It’s not about comparing you to anyone else, but about discovering what makes you thrive.
- Personalized and Individualized Approach – Everything is tailored to your needs. The assessments are adjusted to fit your specific developmental stage, ensuring the results are accurate, meaningful, and completely relevant to you.
- Collaborative Process – Your voice matters. Throughout the process, I prioritize your input, making sure you feel heard and empowered. This is your journey, and I’m here to support you in every step.
At Enlitens Counseling, I’m all about celebrating neurodiversity. There are some assessments I choose not to use because they don’t align with this philosophy:
- ADOS-2 (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule) – While the ADOS-2 is a common tool, it compares behaviors to a “typical” standard. I don’t believe in measuring you against neurotypical benchmarks. Instead, I focus on your individual way of interacting with the world.
- ADI-R (Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised) – This test gathers most of its information from parents or caregivers rather than focusing on your own voice. I believe that you should be the one guiding the process, which is why I don’t use this tool.
My goal is to help you gain a deeper understanding of your strengths and needs through the autism assessment process. Ready to take the first step? Schedule your free consultation today, and we’ll get started together.
Whether you’re exploring insurance coverage options or looking into our sliding scale fees, I’m here to guide you every step of the way in St. Louis.
Understanding Your Autism Diagnosis and Thriving
Getting an autism diagnosis is a big step toward understanding yourself on a deeper level. It’s not just about knowing you’re on the spectrum—it’s about seeing your strengths, finding your path, and embracing the clarity that comes with it. Here in St. Louis, I’m here to guide you through this journey with compassion and support. Together, we’ll explore what this diagnosis means for you and how it can lead to a life filled with more confidence and understanding.
How I Support You After Your Autism Assessment:- Detailed Feedback Sessions: We’ll break down your assessment results in a way that’s easy to digest. We’ll focus on your strengths and talk about areas where extra support could make a big difference in your day-to-day life. This is all about helping you move forward with a sense of direction and self-assurance.
- Customized Recommendations: Based on your unique profile, I’ll offer personalized suggestions on therapies, accommodations, or resources to help you thrive. Whether it’s exploring autism therapy in St. Louis or figuring out what adjustments might make school or work smoother, everything we discuss will be tailored to your specific needs and goals.
- Community Connections: Finding your people is so important. I can help connect you with local groups, organizations, and other resources around St. Louis that offer support for autistic individuals and their families. Building a strong support network can make all the difference in feeling understood and supported.
- Ongoing Support and Guidance: Our relationship doesn’t end with the diagnosis. I’m here for you whenever you need ongoing therapy, help navigating challenges at school or work, or just a space to talk. I’m committed to being a source of support as you continue to thrive in your life, long after the initial assessment.
For more information on autism and related resources, you might find this guide on autism resources helpful, or you can explore local support options through the St. Louis County Health Department’s autism resources.
Ready to take that next step towards clarity and empowerment? Reach out to me today and let’s continue your journey together, with support every step of the way.