Specialties

The focus of Frye Psychological Services is on evaluation and diagnosis, with a particular emphasis on neurodevelopmental disorders. These are conditions that are based in the brain and present in some way in the developmental period. Although neurodevelopmental conditions are often identified in childhood, they may not be fully recognized or diagnosed until later in life. Thus, Frye Psychological services specializes in conducting pediatric evaluations, as well as evaluating adults who may be receiving a diagnosis of a neurodevelopmental condition for the first time. 

ADHD

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), which includes what was previously called ADD, is a condition that impacts attention regulation and/or hyperactivity and impulsivity. ADHD is a brain-based condition. Diagnosis is based on an individual’s clinical history and current experiences, and is informed by the results of neurocognitive testing. Although typically identified in childhood, some individuals are not diagnosed until adulthood. These individuals may be able to compensate for symptoms to a degree but may not be performing optimally or have to exert significantly more effort than others. Accuracy in diagnosis of ADHD and any other co-occurring factors, is critical to inform treatment recommendations.

Autism Spectrum Disorder

Autism spectrum disorder is a form of neurodivergence that involves differences in how an individual thinks, processes, and interacts. These differences can make it challenging for the individual to function in a neurotypical world. Autism is now recognized as a spectrum, with each person experiencing a unique set of strengths and differences. Although also considered to be neurodevelopmental, some individuals are not diagnosed until adulthood (especially women/nonbinary individuals), due to how characteristics present and if the individual engages in masking. Proper diagnosis can help inform a person’s identity and how they navigate social, educational, and work demands. 

Specific Learning Disabilities

Learning disorders (also called specific learning disabilities in school settings) are neurologically based and impact an individual’s ability to read (dyslexia), write (dysgraphia), or do math (dyscalculia). Like other neurodevelopmental conditions, learning disabilities are typically identified in childhood, but may not become fully apparent until academic demands increase. Formal identification of learning differences, and any co-occurring conditions, is critical for designing effective interventions and implementing academic supports to address the individual’s learning needs.

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Intellectual Disability / Intellectual Developmental Disorder

Intellectual disability, which is now referred to as intellectual developmental disorder, involves global weaknesses in cognitive abilities. Intellectual disabilities are also associated with weaknesses in adaptive skills, which refers to how well an individual handles common demands in life and how independent they are compared to others of a similar age. Identification of specific neurocognitive profiles is helpful for determining the individual’s specific needs.

Traumatic Brain Injury / Concussion

A traumatic brain injury (TBI) involves a trauma to the head that causes damage to the brain (with or without loss of consciousness). Severity ranges from mild (typically called a concussion) to severe, and recovery can be quick or prolonged. Neuropsychological evaluations help to understand the neurocognitive impact of the injury and guide suggestions to support recovery.

Behavior Disorders / Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)

Behavior disorders, such as oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), typically involve difficulties with self-regulation that cause disruption and negatively impact functioning. Difficulties with behavior regulation are common in individuals with neurodevelopmental conditions. Thorough evaluation of behavioral factors, and identification of co-occurring conditions, is an important component of designing effective interventions.

Anxiety and Depressive Disorders

Anxiety disorders involve excessive or uncontrollable worries that are related to a specific trigger or are generalized to a variety of topics / situations. Depressive disorders encompass conditions that impact mood, such as major depressive disorder (MDD) or disruptive mood dysregulation disorder (DMDD). Research has shown that anxiety and depression can negatively impact neurocognitive functions, such as memory, attention, executive functioning, etc. These conditions often co-occur with neurodevelopmental conditions. Clear understanding of symptom presentation and contributing factors helps to better direct treatment.

Intellectual Giftedness

An individual who exhibits cognitive abilities that are well above expectations compared to those of a similar age is referred to as intellectually gifted. Identification of intellectual strengths is important to ensure that the individual is provided with a supportive environment that challenges them academically and keeps them engaged mentally. Individuals who are intellectually gifted may also exhibit other forms of neurodivergence (like ADHD or a learning disability), which is referred to as twice exceptional (2E).