Founded in 2022, The Discovery Clinic is a part of the community wellness service array available at Austen Psychological Services. This clinic offers psychological evaluations and short-term post-evaluation support, including therapy. This clinic also offers neurodivergent social groups for those who are connected with the clinic.
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We are taking new evaluation requests! Learn more below
Evaluation Types and Purpose
Evaluation Types and Purpose
Neurodivergent-Affirming Psychological and Neuropsychological Evaluations
Our clinic provides comprehensive psychological and neuropsychological evaluations specializing in Autism, ADHD, OCD, Learning Differences, and other forms of neurodivergence.
We proudly serve individuals and families, with a focus on clients ages 4 to 55.
Evaluations are meant to provide an overview of strengths and needs . The information gathered from an evaluation can be to support education, accommodations for work or school, diagnostic clarity, access to public resources, or other reasons.
Our Evaluation Approach
We believe the evaluation process itself should be supportive and respectful. Our approach is designed to be thorough, modern, and affirming.
Neurodivergent-Friendly Format: Evaluations are conducted in a supportive environment that is sensitive to sensory needs and honors different energy levels.
Comprehensive Methods: We use a mix of clinical interviews, observation, and self-report measures via standardized surveys.
Engaging & Playful: We are committed to incorporating fun and play into the process for individuals of all ages.
In-Depth Testing: When appropriate, the evaluation may include psychometric cognitive tests such as IQ tests or assessments commonly used to understand brain functions related to ADHD. Autism testing incorporates the modern observation tool called the MIGDAS-2.
Collaborative Input: We value a holistic view and may include interviews with family members, teachers, or other important people who know you or your child well.
Modern & Inclusive: Our methodology is up-to-date, incorporating both clinical best practices and the valued preferences of the neurodivergent community.
Your Strengths-Based Outcome
The goal of our evaluation is to provide clarity and a path forward.
You will receive a comprehensive report centered on your unique strengths and needs. This document includes a clear summary of our findings and a list of individualized, practical recommendations.
Families and sibling groups are accepted and encouraged.
Evaluation Process
Evaluation Process
10 min
Format: Virtual or In Person
All evaluations start with either a referral from another provider or a phone consultation
60 - 90 min
Format: Virtual or In Person
Developmental History and Functional Needs Assessment
2 - 6 Hours
Format: In Person Only
Cognitive/ADHD Learning Disability or Neuropsychological Testing
60 - 90 min
Format: Virtual or In Person
Review of Data Collected, Diagnosis, and Personalized Recommendations
3 x 60 min sessions
Format: Virtual or In Person
Optional Short-Term Family Therapy Using Evaluation Results
A Bridge to Other Services
Location and Accessibility
Location and Accessibility
GPS Address: 901 West St. Pittsburgh, PA 15221.
Our office is located in Wilkinsburg, on the east side of Pittsburgh.
It's less than five minutes from 376W and just a few steps from several bus stops. The busway is a 10 minute walk. Ample free parking available!
Accessibility
The building is ADA accessible with an elevator and an accessible, gender-neutral, single stall restroom. Use the 907 West Entrance for easy access to the elevator.
Office Space
The office space is calm and low stim with low lights, low sound and low scent. The testing area is free of visual clutter. There are many stims and fidgets available to enjoy or explore.
In-Person, Virtual, Mobile, or Hybrid Format
In-Person, Virtual, Mobile, or Hybrid Format
Evaluations can be completed entirely in-person or through a hybrid of in-person and video.
All evaluations require at least 1 in-person visit.
Some of the visits can incorporate chat and asynchronous communication when preferred.
Some visits may be conducted at your home or your child's school, when suitable.
Learn more about the evaluation process HERE
Clinic Staff
Clinic Staff
All evaluations are conducted by Dr. Julie Austen, a licensed psychologist in PA and NC with over 20 years of experience working with children and families; 10 as a licensed psychologist. Dr. Austen is trained comprehensively in the application of the biopsychosocial model to evaluation practices. She holds a PhD in Health Psychology, MA/CAS in School Psychology, and a Certificate in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Research, all from East Carolina University. Dr. Austen identifies as an AudiHDer, psychology nerd, and "yinzer."
At times, one of Dr. Austen's clinical staff or trainees may conduct an element of an evaluation, like an interview or a test. Or, they may be present to take notes so that Dr. Austen may focus on you. You will have the opportunity to say whether you want to work with Dr. Austen only (which we welcome and encourage) , or if it is ok to include other staff. Thank you for this consideration, which allows us to serve more clients and train new clinicians, when appropriate.
Support Staff
Support Staff
Kate Deken, Administrative Support
Maggie Nowakowski, and Erin Nowakowski, Billing Specialists, Alpha Billing
Sarah Connor, Doctor of OT Capstone Student, Carlow University
Joey Beck, BA, Psychometrist
*Kate, Maggie, or Erin may contact you in preparation for the exam.
Insurance, Cost and Payment Policies
Insurance, Cost and Payment Policies
Insurances Accepted
Insurances Accepted
BCBS, Highmark, Aetna, OPTUM, and UPMC insurances are accepted. Allegheny County Medicaid (UPMC for You) also accepted. We will pursue out of network agreements for all PA Medicaid recipients (except for Bucks County residents)
*Individuals are responsible for out-of-pocket costs including deductibles and co-pays.
Out of Pocket or Self-Pay Options
If you prefer to pay for the evaluation without using your insurance, the out of pocket cost is typically about $2800 for a comprehensive evaluation. A $200 appointment reservation fee will hold your spot. 50% of the remaining estimate is due at booking, 25% due day of testing, and the remainder due upon reciept of the final report. We will provide you with a superbill upon your request.
Other Information
We also offer payment plans for everyone and reduced fees for individuals with financial hardship.
Payments may be made via credit/debit card, flex/HSA card via the client portal or via check.
Billing will occur at a few points throughout the evaluation. You may receive more than one bill for testing.
How to Save Your Spot
We ask that you save your spot at least 14 days before your appointment begins.
Private Pay/Commercial Insurance: Secure your date with a $200 deposit. This goes toward your final bill, and we’ll refund any extra once insurance pays their part.
Medicaid: Secure your date by checking in with us (email or phone) to say "I'm still coming!"
If we don't hear from you or receive your deposit by the 14-day mark, we will give that spot to someone on our waitlist.
Changes & The "Same Month" Rule
Life happens! If you need to move your appointment, you can keep your "saved spot" as long as the new date is within the same calendar month.
1. If you move it to a different month or cancel, the $200 deposit is kept as a "missed time" fee.
2. For Medicaid clients, moving to a different month means we will move you to our "short-notice" list for future openings.
We are currently scheduling for June 2026 and beyond.
Ready to schedule an evaluation? The first step is to schedule an initial meeting to get the process started.
Ready to schedule an evaluation? The first step is to schedule an initial meeting to get the process started.
Use this form to ask any questions you may have.
Use this form to ask any questions you may have.
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