Psychological Testing & Assessments
The Benefits of Neurodiversity-Affirming Psychological Assessments
Neurodiversity-affirming assessments are a compassionate and inclusive approach to understanding neurological differences, such as autism, ADHD, OCD, and other conditions. These assessments differ from traditional models by focusing on the strengths, preferences, and needs of neurodiverse individuals, rather than merely diagnosing deficits.
One of the key benefits of this approach is that it reduces the stigma often associated with these conditions. By acknowledging neurodiversity as a natural variation of human brains rather than a disorder that needs to be "fixed," clients feel more empowered to embrace their identities. Neurodiversity-affirming assessments help individuals, especially children, recognize their unique abilities, fostering self-confidence and a more positive outlook on their future.
Additionally, neurodiversity-affirming assessments provide more accurate, tailored support. Rather than using a one-size-fits-all approach, these evaluations focus on understanding the individual’s unique traits. For example, testing for autism with a neurodiversity lens may identify traits like hyperfocus or sensory sensitivities that traditional assessments might overlook. This holistic perspective ensures that recommendations for support are customized to align with the individual's strengths and challenges.
With Jessica Brandon’s years of experience in educational settings and her neurodiversity-affirming approach, clients can feel assured that the assessment process will be respectful, thorough, and attuned to their specific needs. Whether it's navigating school challenges, work dynamics, or personal relationships, Jessica is dedicated to helping individuals understand their neurodiverse identities in a supportive, empowering environment.
Jessica Brandon
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MS, TLLP
We are excited to introduce Jessica Brandon, a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, as the newest member of the Heartstone Guidance Center team. Jessica brings a wealth of experience to our center, having worked for years as a school psychologist, where she specialized in supporting neurodiverse individuals. Her passion for neurodiversity-affirming care makes her a perfect fit for our mission of providing inclusive, compassionate mental health services.
Jessica offers comprehensive assessments for autism, Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA), Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) as well as academic and achievement testing. Her testing approach affirms neurodiversity, ensuring that each assessment respects and values the unique traits and experiences of individuals. Jessica provides these services for children, adolescents, and adults, and her online testing options and sliding scale payments offer flexibility and convenience for families and individuals alike.
With Jessica’s expertise, Heartstone Guidance Center continues its commitment to supporting individuals across the neurodiversity spectrum in a way that celebrates their strengths and provides the right tools for growth and well-being.
Expertise in Academic and Achievement Testing
In addition to providing neurodiversity-affirming assessments, Jessica Brandon offers specialized academic and achievement testing for students of all ages. Her background as a school psychologist gives her unique insight into the educational challenges faced by neurodiverse students, such as those with autism, ADHD, and other learning differences. Jessica’s assessments provide valuable information about a student’s strengths and areas for growth, helping families and educators better understand how to support the child’s academic success.
Jessica’s experience allows her to interpret complex testing results and provide clear recommendations for educational interventions and supports. Her assessments can identify learning disabilities, intellectual capabilities, and specific academic skills, helping students receive the individualized support they need to thrive. Whether it’s evaluating for IEP (Individualized Education Program) eligibility, accommodations for standardized testing, or determining the best learning environment for a student, Jessica’s expertise ensures a thorough, compassionate evaluation process.
Advocacy and Support in the School Setting
Jessica’s role extends beyond testing—she is also a strong advocate for students within the educational system. She understands the complexities of the special education process and helps parents navigate the often confusing landscape of school accommodations, IEPs, and 504 plans. Jessica’s years as a school psychologist have equipped her with a deep understanding of how to work collaboratively with teachers, administrators, and special education teams to ensure that each student receives the support they deserve.
Jessica works closely with families, guiding them through every step of the process to ensure that their children’s rights are respected and their needs are met. She helps parents understand their options, advocate for appropriate services, and communicate effectively with schools to secure accommodations that enhance the student’s learning experience. Her goal is to empower parents with the knowledge and confidence to ensure their children thrive in the academic setting.
Navigating Workplace Accommodations for Adults
For adults, Jessica also offers guidance on navigating workplace accommodations. Whether it’s assisting with ADHD, autism, or other neurodiverse conditions, Jessica provides insights into how individuals can advocate for themselves in the workplace. She helps adults understand their rights under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and works with them to develop strategies for requesting accommodations that allow them to perform their jobs to the best of their ability.
Jessica’s expertise is particularly valuable in helping neurodiverse adults create work environments that support their strengths and needs. From adjusting communication styles to structuring work tasks in a way that suits the individual, Jessica’s approach ensures that neurodiverse employees can thrive professionally while feeling valued and understood in their workplaces.