Frequently Asked Questions About ADHD and Autism Evaluations and Neurodiversity Affirming Therapy in New Jersey
Find answers to common questions about ADHD testing and Autism evaluations in New Jersey for children and teens and adults, neurodiversity affirming therapy, play therapy, immigration mental health evaluations, fees and out-of-network billing, and telehealth services at True Reflections Mental Health Services in Middlesex, NJ. Do not see your question? Reach out at info@truereflectionsmhs.com
About True Reflections Mental Health Services
What is True Reflections Mental Health Services?
True Reflections Mental Health Services is a neurodiversity affirming therapy and evaluation practice located in Middlesex, NJ, founded and led by Janine Kelly, MSW, LCSW, C-NDAAP, ADHD-CCSP, ASDCS, PMH-C, RPT-S™, C-DBT, CBT-C, CCATP-CA. The practice specializes in supporting autistic and ADHD children, teens, and adults, with additional specializations in anxiety, trauma, and perinatal mental health. Services are available in-person in Middlesex, NJ, and virtually throughout New Jersey and Florida.
Who is Janine Kelly?
Janine Kelly is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Certified Neurodiversity Affirming Advanced Practice Professional (C-NDAAP) in Middlesex, NJ, and holds additional certifications in ADHD-CCSP, ASDCS, PMH-C, RPT-S™, C-DBT, CBT-C, and CCATP-CA. As a neurodivergent clinician who received her own ADHD and Autism diagnosis later in life, Janine brings both professional expertise and lived experience to her work with clients.
Where is True Reflections Mental Health Services located?
The office is located at 518 Clinton Ave, Middlesex, NJ 08846. It is a sensory friendly home office designed with adjustable lighting and noise levels and flexible seating to support clients with sensory integration needs. Telehealth services are available throughout New Jersey and Florida.
Does True Reflections Mental Health Services offer telehealth?
Yes. Telehealth therapy and evaluation services are available virtually throughout New Jersey and Florida, using the same comprehensive process as in person sessions through a secure, HIPAA compliant platform. In person services are offered at the Middlesex, NJ office.
Who is True Reflections Mental Health Services a good fit for?
True Reflections Mental Health Services is a strong fit for autistic individuals, ADHDers, people who suspect they may be neurodivergent, and anyone who has felt out of place in traditional therapy or evaluation settings. Services are available for children as young as 2.5 years old through adulthood, including teens, college students, and adults seeking a later-in-life ADHD or Autism diagnosis. The practice also serves parents navigating a new diagnosis for their child, individuals with co-occurring anxiety or trauma, and people in the perinatal period. True Reflections MHS is fully private pay and out-of-network with most insurance plans.
I think I might be autistic or have ADHD. Where do I start?
If you suspect you may be autistic or have ADHD, an evaluation is a great place to begin. At True Reflections Mental Health Services, you can reach out directly through the contact form or by emailing info@truereflectionsmhs.com. Janine will connect with you to discuss your concerns, answer your questions, and determine whether a neurodiversity affirming evaluation is the right next step. No referral is required to begin the process. You do not need to have a prior diagnosis or a specific reason to suspect ADHD or Autism. Many clients come simply with a feeling that something has always been different, and that is enough to start the conversation.
ADHD and Autism Evaluations
What is a neurodiversity affirming ADHD and Autism evaluation?
A neurodiversity affirming ADHD and Autism evaluation is a comprehensive assessment process that evaluates for ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and related differences using a strength-based, affirming framework. Unlike traditional deficit-focused evaluations, this approach identifies how a person's brain works, what supports they need, and how their neurological profile shapes their experiences. Evaluations at True Reflections Mental Health Services are available for children, teens, and adults, in-person in Middlesex, NJ and virtually throughout New Jersey and Florida.
What ages do you evaluate for ADHD and Autism?
Autism evaluations are available starting at age 2.5. ADHD evaluations begin at age 4. Both are available through adulthood.
What is the difference between an ADHD evaluation and an Autism evaluation, and can both be assessed together?
ADHD and Autism are distinct neurological profiles that require different assessment tools and methods, though they frequently co-occur. An ADHD evaluation focuses on attention, impulse control, working memory, and executive functioning. An Autism evaluation examines social communication, sensory processing, behavioral patterns, and identity development. Because ADHD and Autism frequently co-occur, it is common and clinically appropriate to evaluate for both in the same process when the presenting concerns warrant it, avoiding the need for separate assessments.
What if criteria are not met for a diagnosis?
Even without a formal diagnosis, the evaluation still provides significant value. You will receive a detailed profile of cognitive strengths and challenges, emotional and behavioral functioning, sensory processing, and individualized recommendations for support.
I had a previous evaluation that came back negative. Can I be re-evaluated?
Yes. Re-evaluations are valid, increasingly common, and often necessary. This is particularly true for girls and women, who are frequently missed in evaluations conducted without specialized training in the female presentation of ADHD and Autism. If a previous evaluation did not feel accurate or complete, you have every right to seek a second opinion.
How is a private evaluation different from a school evaluation?
School evaluations are conducted by the school district and determine eligibility for school-based services only. They do not provide a clinical diagnosis. A private evaluation at True Reflections Mental Health Services provides a formal ADHD or Autism diagnosis along with a comprehensive, individualized report and recommendations. Many families pursue both: a private evaluation first, then use those results to advocate for services through the school.
What assessment tools are used when evaluating children for ADHD and Autism?
Every evaluation is individualized, and the specific tools used depend on your child's age, presentation, and the referral questions being addressed. Tools that may be used include the Childhood Autism Rating Scale, Second Edition (CARS-2), the Monteiro Interview Guidelines for Diagnosing the Autism Spectrum, Second Edition (MIGDAS-2), the Social Responsiveness Scale, Second Edition (SRS-2), the Conners 4th Edition (Conners 4), the Brown Executive Function/Attention Scales (Brown EF/A Scales), the Delis-Kaplan Executive Function System (D-KEFS), the Delis-Rating of Executive Functions (D-REF), the Behavior Assessment System for Children, Fourth Edition (BASC-4), the Developmental Neuropsychological Assessment, Second Edition (NEPSY-II), the Sensory Profile, The Comprehensive Assessment of Interoceptive Awareness, Third Edition, the Revised Children's Anxiety and Depression Scale (RCADS), the Clinical Assessment of Pragmatics (CAPs), A Language Processing Skills Assessment (TAPS-4), the Wechsler Individual Achievement Test, Fourth Edition (WIAT-4), the California Verbal Learning Test, Third Edition (CVLT-3), the Wide Range Assessment of Memory and Learning, Third Edition (WRAML-3), the Reynolds Adaptable Intelligence Test (RAIT), the Reynolds Intellectual Assessment Scales, Second Edition, Normative Update (RIAS-2 NU), the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), and the Beck Depression Inventory, Second Edition (BDI-2). Not all tools are used in every evaluation. The most clinically appropriate instruments are selected for each individual child, so your child's evaluation is tailored specifically to their needs.
What assessment tools are used when evaluating adults for ADHD and Autism?
Every evaluation is individualized, and the specific tools used depend on the individual's presentation and the referral questions being addressed. Tools that may be used include the Camouflaging Autistic Traits Questionnaire (CAT-Q), the Monteiro Interview Guidelines for Diagnosing the Autism Spectrum, Second Edition (MIGDAS-2), the Social Responsiveness Scale, Second Edition (SRS-2), the Conners Adult ADHD Rating Scales (CAARS), the Brown Executive Function/Attention Scales (Brown EF/A Scales), the Delis-Kaplan Executive Function System (D-KEFS), the Delis-Rating of Executive Functions (D-REF), the Behavior Assessment System for Children, Fourth Edition (BASC-4), the Sensory Profile, The Comprehensive Assessment of Interoceptive Awareness, Third Edition, the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), the Beck Depression Inventory, Second Edition (BDI-2), the California Verbal Learning Test, Third Edition (CVLT-3), the Wide Range Assessment of Memory and Learning, Third Edition (WRAML-3), the Reynolds Intellectual Assessment Scales, Second Edition, Normative Update (RIAS-2 NU), the Wechsler Individual Achievement Test, Fourth Edition (WIAT-4), the Clinical Assessment of Pragmatics (CAPs), and A Language Processing Skills Assessment (TAPS-4). Not all tools are used in every evaluation. The most clinically appropriate instruments are selected for each individual, so the evaluation is tailored specifically to their needs.
Do I need a referral to get an ADHD or Autism evaluation?
A referral is not required to schedule a neurodiversity affirming evaluation at True Reflections Mental Health Services. You can request an appointment directly through the website to begin the process. Because True Reflections Mental Health Services is a private pay, out-of-network practice, there are no insurance gatekeeping requirements that would require a physician referral prior to evaluation.
How long does an ADHD or Autism evaluation take?
The length of an evaluation at True Reflections Mental Health Services varies based on the type of assessment, the age of the client, and the referral questions being addressed. Evaluations typically involve an intake appointment, one or more assessment sessions, and a feedback session during which the report and findings are reviewed in detail. The full evaluation process from intake through the feedback session typically takes 4 to 6 weeks depending on scheduling availability.
What is included in an evaluation report from True Reflections Mental Health Services?
The evaluation report includes a summary of background history, a description of all assessment tools and methods used, results and interpretation of every measure administered, diagnostic impressions, a strengths-based profile of the client, and practical recommendations for home, school, or work. The report is reviewed in full during the feedback session so that clients and families leave with a clear understanding of the findings and what to do next.
How much does an ADHD or Autism evaluation cost at True Reflections Mental Health Services?
Evaluation fees at True Reflections Mental Health Services vary based on the type and scope of the assessment. To view the evaluation fees visit our Fees/Out-of-network page. Evaluation fees are not billed through insurance, though a Superbill may be provided after the feedback session.
Does insurance cover the evaluation?
True Reflections Mental Health Services is an out-of-network provider and does not bill insurance directly. A Superbill is provided after the feedback session that you can submit to your insurance company for potential partial reimbursement. Relevant CPT codes: 90791, 96136, 96137, 96130, and 96131.
Does True Reflections Mental Health Services offer payment plans for evaluations?
Yes. Payment plan options are available for evaluations at True Reflections Mental Health Services. Visit our Fees/Out-of-network page for more information.
Neurodiversity Affirming Therapy
What is neurodiversity affirming therapy?
Neurodiversity affirming therapy is an approach that recognizes ADHD, Autism, and other neurological differences as natural variations in human development rather than deficits to be fixed. A neurodiversity affirming therapist works to support the client's strengths, identity, and wellbeing without trying to change who they fundamentally are. The goal is to help clients thrive as they are, not to make them appear more neurotypical.
What conditions does True Reflections Mental Health Services treat?
True Reflections Mental Health Services specializes in ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, anxiety, trauma and PTSD/CPTSD, perinatal mood disorders (prenatal and postpartum anxiety, depression, OCD, and PTSD), and the unique mental health challenges that arise at the intersection of neurodivergence and trauma. Later-in-life ADHD and Autism diagnosis support is also available.
What therapy approaches does True Reflections Mental Health Services use?
Janine Kelly is trained in a wide range of evidence-based and neurodiversity affirming therapeutic approaches including Play Therapy, AutPlay Therapy, Sandtray Therapy, EMDR, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Interoceptive Awareness Training.
Play Therapy
What is play therapy?
Play therapy is an evidence based form of treatment that uses play as the primary medium for children to express their feelings, process experiences, and develop coping strategies. Because children naturally communicate through play rather than words, play therapy is a developmentally appropriate way for a therapist to build a relationship with a child and support their mental health. It is typically used with children ages 3 to 12, with modified approaches available for younger children starting at 2.5 years old, and can be adapted for teens and adults when appropriate.
What does a play therapy session look like?
In a play therapy session, the child is provided with carefully selected therapeutic materials including puppets, miniature figures, sand trays, art supplies, books, and therapeutic games. The child leads the play while the therapist provides a safe, non-judgmental presence. Children do not need to talk about their problems directly; through play they naturally project and process their inner experiences. Parents are not typically present in the session room but are an important part of the therapeutic process.
What does play therapy help with?
Play therapy is effective for anxiety, trauma, ADHD, Autism, depression, grief and loss, anger and aggression, adjustment to family changes, school-related difficulties, social challenges, and self-regulation difficulties. At True Reflections Mental Health Services, play therapy is delivered through a neurodiversity affirming lens.
Fees and Insurance
Does True Reflections Mental Health Services accept insurance?
True Reflections Mental Health Services is an out-of-network provider and does not bill insurance directly. Full payment is due at the time of the appointment. A Superbill (statement for insurance reimbursement) is emailed after each session so clients can submit it to their insurance company for potential partial reimbursement, depending on their out-of-network benefits.
What are the therapy fees at True Reflections Mental Health Services?
The initial intake appointment is $285. For children and adolescents, two intake appointments are required: one with the parent ($285) and one with the child or teen ($285). Ongoing therapy sessions are $260 per session.
What is a Superbill and how do I use it?
A Superbill is a detailed receipt that includes everything your insurance company needs to process a reimbursement claim for out of network services, including provider information, date of service, diagnosis code, and CPT code. It is emailed to clients after the feedback session for evaluations, and after each therapy session on an ongoing basis. You submit it directly to your insurance company along with any required claim forms. Reimbursement is not guaranteed and depends on your specific plan's out of network benefits.
What payment methods do you accept, including HSA and FSA?
True Reflections Mental Health Services accepts cash, debit card, credit card, HSA, and FSA for therapy and evaluations. The NeuroVocational Assessment is the one exception and is not eligible for HSA, FSA, or personal check payment. Please confirm specifics with your plan administrator, as coverage can vary by plan.
Getting Started
How do I schedule an appointment, and what happens after I reach out?
You can request an appointment through the website or by emailing info@truereflectionsmhs.com. Janine will follow up to discuss your concerns, answer your questions, and determine together whether True Reflections Mental Health Services is the right fit. If it is, you will receive clear next steps for paperwork and scheduling. There is no pressure to commit, and no question is too small.
What happens at the first therapy appointment?
For adults, the first appointment is an intake session where Janine gathers background information about your history, current concerns, and goals for therapy. For children and adolescents, two intake appointments are required: the first is a parent-only session to gather developmental and family history, and the second is with the child or teen directly. This two-appointment intake process ensures the most thorough understanding of your child's needs before treatment begins.
Does True Reflections Mental Health Services have a waitlist?
No. True Reflections Mental Health Services does not maintain a waitlist. New clients are typically able to schedule within a short timeframe after reaching out, often within days to a couple of weeks, not months. When you are ready to move forward, you do not have to wait to get started. You can request an appointment directly through the website at truereflectionsmhs.com/schedule or by emailing info@truereflectionsmhs.com
Is the office sensory-friendly?
Yes. The True Reflections MHS office is designed with neurodivergent clients in mind. Lighting and noise levels can be adjusted as needed, toys and materials can be covered if a child feels overstimulated, and a variety of seating arrangements are available to support comfort and regulation.
Still have questions?
Janine is happy to help. Reach out directly at info@truereflectionsmhs.com or call (908) 271-8000, or click below to request an appointment.
True Reflections Mental Health Services is a neurodiversity affirming therapy and evaluation practice serving children, teens, and adults in Middlesex, NJ and throughout New Jersey and Florida via telehealth. Whether you are seeking ADHD or Autism testing, immigration mental health evaluations in English and Spanish, play therapy, trauma support, prenatal and postpartum therapy, or support following a later-in-life neurodivergence diagnosis, True Reflections Mental Health Services offers compassionate, strength-based care grounded in lived experience. Janine Kelly, LCSW, C-NDAAP, RPT-S, is ready to answer your questions. Reach out at info@truereflectionsmhs.com or request an appointment below