Autism Evaluation 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.
About
Harry M. Voulgarakis, PhD
Dr. Voulgarakis is a licensed psychologist and board-certified behavior analyst specializing in pediatric neuropsychology, autism, and complex developmental disorders. His clinical work combines evidence-based assessment with a compassionate, family-centered approach to help children and families thrive.
Selected Publications
Children’s Health Care
Journal of Pediatric Neuropsychology
Child Care in Practice
Advances in Neurodevelopmental Disorders
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). Dr. Voulgarakis is research-reliable ADOS-2 certified.
✓ 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.
What Happens After Your Autism Evaluation?
Many families continue with our specialized autism therapy to address the challenges identified in the evaluation—managing anxiety, sensory overwhelm, social communication, and executive function.
Our neurodiversity-affirming therapy honors autistic identity while building practical skills for navigating daily life.
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 a licensed psychologist, neuropsychologist, and board-certified behavior analyst (BCBA-D)—a rare triple combination bringing deeper insight into neurodevelopmental conditions and behavior change.
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
Common Questions
Can you diagnose autism in adults?
Yes! Adult autism diagnosis is a significant part of our practice. Many adults (especially women) weren't diagnosed as children but have autistic traits they've masked or compensated for.
What if it's not autism?
Sometimes what looks like autism is ADHD, anxiety, or processing differences. Comprehensive evaluation identifies what's actually going on so you get the right support.
Will autism diagnosis help with school services?
Yes. Autism diagnosis often qualifies children for IEPs in NYC schools, including specialized instruction, speech therapy, occupational therapy, and social skills support.
Do you provide ABA therapy?
Yes, Dr. Voulgarakis is a BCBA-D and provides individualized ABA services when appropriate. Our approach is neurodiversity-affirming and family-centered.
Can this evaluation be used for test accommodations?
Yes. If you're taking standardized exams (LSAT, MCAT, GRE, Bar Exam, etc.) and need accommodations due to autism-related processing challenges, our comprehensive evaluations meet testing board requirements.