Increasing knowledge, understanding, compassion, and support through evaluations & presentations
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Our Approach
Is it a diagnosis or a discovery?
At Developmental Discoveries, we combine insight and empathy to see the whole person: how they think, learn, socially connect and process their world. We don’t seek to change a person, but better understand who they are and the symptoms they are experiencing.
By translating that understanding into meaningful action, we help families, educators, therapists, and organizations harness strengths while addressing challenges, leading to growth and inclusion.
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As a college student working with autistic children, I got curious about how families learned of their child’s diagnosis. They were all terrible; cold, lacking in education, dismissive, etc. I sought out to be the person at the start of the process who could provide a better experience. I have an amazing team whom I respect and admire (it’s great to get to pick your coworkers!).
After 11 years of practice, I felt confined by the medical system and knew I could serve families more ideally on my own. I opened DDN in 2022 where kids are made to feel welcomed and included and parents leave armed with a better understanding of their child and a clear path forward.
During COVID, I began providing virtual workshops and training for parents, educators, therapists, and organizations. I’ve since had the good fortune to work with diverse groups in multiple formats, including keynote speaking!
My speaking mission mirrors that of the DDN clinical process: help more people better understand and support often misunderstood individuals.
-Dr. Megan Helmen
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A focus on building strengths, understanding, and connection
Licensed psychologists conduct your child’s testing
The flexibility to complete real-world observations at school or home
Child-friendly feedback, in their language, with a personalized book
User-friendly reports, provided in a timely manner
30+ combined years in the autistic community
Special interest & experience in niche areas of child development
A space for parental grief & frustration without judgment
Our Process
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Step 1: Learn
Caregiver interviews, records review, provider collaboration
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Step 2: Assess
Evidence-based testing in a welcoming space by a psychologist (not a tech)
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Step 3: Discuss
Conversational feedback about our discoveries that turns insights into next steps
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Step 4: Deliver
Reader-friendly, child-centered report with practical recommendations (Here is an example template)
"This was extraordinarily comprehensive and I really admire and am grateful for the astute observations you were able to make of [our child] in the time you had together." - Parent
"This was extraordinarily comprehensive and I really admire and am grateful for the astute observations you were able to make of [our child] in the time you had together." - Parent
"I feel so hopeful about a positive path forward for us thanks to your guidance." - Parent
"I feel so hopeful about a positive path forward for us thanks to your guidance." - Parent
“The report was extremely helpful! It feels like 100 pounds has been lifted off my shoulders” - Parent
“The report was extremely helpful! It feels like 100 pounds has been lifted off my shoulders” - Parent
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