The Mental Health Guide: What You Need to Know Before Getting Support

A psychological evaluation focuses on emotional and behavioral functioning, while a neuropsychological evaluation explores how the brain processes information—such as attention, memory, executive functioning, and learning.

Yes. In adults, ADHD often shows up as disorganization, forgetfulness, mental restlessness, or difficulty following through—whereas in children, it may appear as impulsivity, emotional reactivity, or inattention in school settings.

OCD involves intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors that feel uncontrollable and cause distress. While it’s often confused with perfectionism, perfectionism is more closely associated with a compulsive personality style known as Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder (OCPD). Unlike OCD, OCPD is characterized by rigid thinking, control, and orderliness.

Autism in teens and adults includes the same core traits seen in childhood—such as social communication differences, sensory sensitivities, emotional regulation challenges, and focused interests—but these symptoms are often more internalized or masked. This is especially common among women and gender-diverse individuals.

Yes. With exposure-based therapy and anxiety-reducing techniques, phobias can be reduced significantly—even if they’ve been present for a long time.

Learning disabilities affect how the brain processes specific types of information (like reading or math), regardless of effort or intelligence. They require specialized assessment and support—not just more motivation.

Trauma therapy helps individuals process and make sense of distressing experiences, reduce triggers, and rebuild a sense of safety and trust. Treatment may include evidence-based approaches like Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), as well as body-based and somatic therapies, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), and neurological feedback techniques. These modalities support healing by addressing both the mind and the nervous system—allowing trauma to be processed safely and more completely.

Yes. While personality disorders involve long-standing patterns, therapy—especially relational and skills-based approaches—can lead to meaningful growth, emotional regulation, and healthier relationships.

Anxiety is a natural response, but when it becomes persistent, overwhelming, or interferes with daily life, it may be diagnosed as an anxiety disorder and benefit from professional treatment.

Standard testing doesn’t always detect specific learning disabilities or executive functioning challenges. A targeted psychoeducational evaluation may reveal underlying issues and guide appropriate accommodations.

Absolutely. Individuals with Autism or ADHD often experience anxiety, depression, or trauma-related symptoms—and these can be misdiagnosed if not viewed through a neurodiversity-affirming lens.

Panic attacks stem from sudden, intense fear that can feel physical (racing heart, shortness of breath). Treatment involves identifying triggers, learning calming techniques, and gradually facing feared situations.

Yes. We specialize in helping children and families navigate the emotional and relational complexities of adoption and foster care, including attachment, identity, and trauma.

Dr. Christina Stai uses a trauma-informed, neurodiversity-affirming approach that integrates evidence-based practices like CBT, DBT, play therapy, and family systems therapy—tailored to each individual’s needs.