Autism Evaluation & Therapy in NYC
Comprehensive autism assessments and neurodiversity-affirming support for children, teens, and adults in Manhattan and throughout New York.
Is it autism? You've been wondering. Maybe you see it in the way your child interacts with others, their intense interests, their sensory sensitivities. Or maybe you're an adult who's always felt different and finally found a word that fits.
​
Getting an autism evaluation can feel overwhelming—but it's also the first step toward understanding, acceptance, and the right support.
​
We specialize in comprehensive autism assessments using gold-standard tools (ADOS-2, ADI-R) for children, teens, and adults in Manhattan and throughout New York.
When to Consider Autism Evaluation
Signs You Should Consider Evaluation:
Social Communication
-
Difficulty with back-and-forth conversation or social reciprocity
-
Challenges understanding social cues and unspoken rules
-
Different way of connecting with others or preference for solitary activitiesIntense focus on specific topics or interests
​
​
Repetitive Behaviors & Sensory Differences
-
Need for routine and predictability; distress with changes
-
Repetitive movements or stimming (hand-flapping, rocking, spinning)
-
Sensory sensitivities (sounds, textures, lights, smells)
-
Strong preferences for certain sensations
Many autistic individuals also experience
-
Anxiety (especially in social situations or with transitions)
-
ADHD symptoms (difficulty with focus, organization, or impulsivity)
-
Learning differences or processing challenges
-
Executive function difficulties
​
Autism looks different in everyone—especially in girls, women, and people who've learned to mask. Comprehensive evaluation identifies autism even in subtle presentations.
Autism Evaluation Services
Seeking an autism evaluation in NYC can feel overwhelming. We provide clear, compassionate, and thorough assessments designed to answer questions and guide next steps.​
Each Evaluation Includes:
✓ Gold-standard diagnostic tools – ADOS-2 (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule) and ADI-R (Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised)
✓ Detailed developmental history – Comprehensive family interview and background information
✓ Cognitive testing – Understanding strengths and challenges beyond autism diagnosis
✓ Adaptive functioning assessment – Daily living skills and real-world functioning
✓ Differential diagnosis – Is it autism, ADHD, anxiety, or all three? We identify co-occurring conditions
✓ Collaboration with providers – We work with schools, physicians, and other professionals involved in care
✓ Comprehensive written report – Clear diagnosis, actionable recommendations for therapy, school, and support
✓ Personalized feedback session – Review results, answer questions, and discuss next steps
Whether you're seeking a first-time diagnosis, clarifying complex challenges, or updating an existing evaluation, you'll receive a practical, individualized report that helps inform treatment, education, and daily life.
Therapy & Ongoing Support
In addition to evaluation, we provide therapy and consultation services for autistic individuals and their families. Our approach is neurodiversity-affirming, strengths-based, and tailored to each client's goals.​​
Therapy Services for Autistic Individuals:
​
-
Managing anxiety and sensory overwhelm – Strategies for coping with sensory sensitivities, social anxiety, and autistic burnout
-
Social communication skills – Building meaningful connections while honoring your authentic self
-
Executive function support – Organization, planning, and managing routines
-
Self-advocacy and identity development – Embracing your autistic identity
-
Parent and family support – Helping families understand and support autistic loved ones​
Our Therapeutic Approaches:
​
Depending on needs, therapy may include:
​
-
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) – Our primary approach for anxiety, emotional regulation, and values-driven living
-
Cognitive-behavioral strategies (CBT) – Practical skills for anxiety and daily challenges
-
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) when appropriate – Evidence-based behavioral interventions
-
Parent coaching and family therapy – Supporting the whole family system
-
Collaboration with schools and community providers – Ensuring consistent support across settings
​
This flexible, evidence-based model ensures that care is not limited to one method, but instead designed around the unique strengths and needs of each individual.
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Services
As a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA-D), Dr. Voulgarakis provides individualized ABA services focused on building meaningful skills and reducing behavioral barriers through evidence-based interventions and family collaboration.
ABA Services Include:
-
Functional behavior assessments (FBA)
-
Individualized intervention planning
-
Social skills development
-
Communication enhancement
-
Daily living skills training
-
Family and caregiver support
Our ABA approach is neurodiversity-affirming – we focus on what matters to the individual and family, not arbitrary "normalcy."
Why Families Choose HMV Psychology for Autism Evaluations
​​Gold-Standard Assessment Tools
We use ADOS-2 and ADI-R—the most reliable autism diagnostic tools available
Specialized Training & Experience
Dr. Voulgarakis trained at the Seaver Autism Center at Mount Sinai in New York. Nearly 15 years focused specifically on autism and neurodevelopmental conditions.
Dual Expertise: Psychology + Behavior Analysis
Dr. Voulgarakis is both a licensed psychologist AND board-certified behavior analyst (BCBA-D)—a rare combination bringing deeper insight into neurodivergent minds.
Neurodiversity-Affirming Care
We honor different ways of thinking. Our goal isn't to make anyone "normal"—it's to help autistic individuals and families thrive as their authentic selves.
NYC School System Expertise
Approved for NYC DOE Independent Educational Evaluations (IEE). We help families advocate for appropriate school services.
Convenient Manhattan Location + Telehealth
In-person services on the Upper West Side or remote therapy across New York State
