Kat O'Donnell, LCSW
They/She
Online (throughout Virginia) and In-Person (at our neuro-inclusive office in Richmond, VA)
I specialize with autistic and ADHD adults and teens who are high-masking, 2E (twice exceptional), seeking a diagnosis later in life, and/or desiring a more affirming diagnostic process, as well as autism evaluations for children who might be missed by traditional evaluations. I also am incredibly passionate about supporting parents who are seeking their own diagnosis after their child’s diagnosis/traits led to new or increased self-discovery. My approach is collaborative and grounded in lived experience.
About Me and How I Work
I have intentionally designed a diagnostic evaluation process for autism and/or ADHD that is collaborative, person-centered, and focused on your lived experience, using neurodivergent-affirming diagnostic assessment models, self-questionnaires, and other aligned resources. Every diagnostic evaluation or consult session (short-term, solution-focused therapy) caters to and centers the unique needs of the client and their neurotype.
During the diagnostic interview session, I work with clients to co-create meaning. Then, during report writing, I apply the DSM-V criteria to what I've learned, using it only as an adaptive framework for diagnostic purposes. This thoughtful process allows me to provide formal diagnosis and facilitate access to accommodations, while ensuring the experience for the client remains neuro-affirming and non-pathologizing.
Qualifications and Professional Experience
I have been trained by The Properties of Light to conduct neuro-affirming autism and ADHD diagnostic evaluations with clients of all ages. I spent over a decade as a therapist providing grief and chronic illness counseling, as well as training on LGBTQ+ inclusive care, with specialization in supporting transgender, non-binary, and gender non-conforming clients. I have worked with clients of all ages — children, youth/adolescents, young adults, adults, and older adults — as well as individual clients, parents, siblings, and families.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Virginia (#0904010650), where I am able to provide diagnostic evaluation as an LCSW and Master's-level clinician. My practice, Wingspan Neuro-Affirming Care, is a Professional LLC in Virginia, and we are fully insured with APA. I received my Master's of Social Work from University of Maryland, Baltimore in 2013 and my Bachelor's of Social Work from UMBC in 2012. I attended a two year post-Masters social work leadership fellowship with NYU from 2019-2021, and in 2024 I received the LGBTQ+ Business Award from the Washington Business Journal for my work with that population.
Next Steps
I am actively scheduling for both in-person (Richmond, VA) and virtual (throughout Virginia) sessions, and I see clients Fridays from 9am-5pm. Clients need to complete the quick scheduling form on my website to initiate services, though you are welcome to email with questions. I respond to emails in 48-72 hours, though I aim to reply as soon as possible. Please get in touch if you would like to schedule an evaluation or consult session!
Website: www.wingspan.care (includes scheduling link)
Email: kat@wingspan.care
Flyer: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1_3uXVlW5W93ibxOu34xApvCKSjPZ-izm
I provide all services using an equitable sliding scale model, with rates far below market to ensure financial accessibility. All rates are transparently listed on my website, as well as information about how to determine your rate. No documentation is required to select the accessible rate, as I don't believe that income is a clear representation of access needs. Services are private pay to ensure autonomy over diagnostic disclosure.