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Are you wondering if your child may be on the autism spectrum or what an autism assessment actually involves? In this episode of The Polaris Connection, we break down the entire autism evaluation process — from the first signs and screenings to formal diagnosis and next steps. You’ll learn what professionals look for, how assessments are conducted, and what parents can do to prepare.

Join us as we talk with specialists who explain testing tools, timelines, and common myths about autism diagnosis. Whether you’re beginning the journey or supporting someone through it, this episode offers clarity, guidance, and hope for families navigating autism assessments.

Meet Dr. Maylin Griffiths, Ph.D., a licensed clinical psychologist and founder of the Arizona Pediatric Assessment Center (AZPAC). With a dedicated focus on children and families, Dr. Griffiths specializes in comprehensive psychological and developmental evaluations, including assessments for autism, intellectual disabilities, learning differences, ADHD, mood disorders, and more.

Drawing from years of hands-on experience across clinical, educational, and academic settings, she also supports Independent Educational Evaluations (IEEs), coordinates treatment among multiple professionals, and has served in academic leadership, including chairing assessment committees.

Dr. Griffiths is deeply committed to a strength-based, child-centered approach, guided by the belief that “there is no such thing as a bad kid.”

Her work at AZPAC aims to bring clarity, hope, and actionable guidance to families navigating the complexities of developmental and mental health assessments.

info@azassessment.com

https://azassessment.com/autism-evaluations

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Do you know how ESA works in Arizona? In this episode, the discussion centers around the importance of educational freedom and the resources available to families, particularly those with children on the autism spectrum. The guests, Lucy Willing and Lindsey White, share insights into how Love Your School helps families navigate educational options, emphasizing the value of personalized education plans. They highlight the benefits of Arizona's open enrollment policies and the Education Savings Account (ESA) program, which provides families with the flexibility to choose the best educational path for their children.

Parents of autistic children can learn about the application process for ESA, the importance of having a qualified diagnosis, and the various resources available to support their child's unique needs. The episode underscores the mission of Love Your School to empower families with the knowledge and tools to make informed decisions about their children's education.

lindsey@loveyourschool.org

lucy@loveyourschool.org

Find Love Your School resources at https://loveyourschool.org/arizona/

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This episode of "The Polaris Connection" podcast offers a heartfelt and insightful discussion aimed at supporting and guiding parents of autistic children. The hosts, Brad Broyles and Nathan Palmer, delve into the complexities of autism, emphasizing the importance of understanding and embracing the unique ways autistic children process information. They highlight the beauty in these differences, likening autism to a "beautiful kind of different" and a "superpower." The conversation encourages parents to stay present, enjoy the moment, and find joy in the unique qualities of their children. The podcast serves as a resourceful guide, offering reassurance and practical advice to help parents navigate the challenges and celebrate the joys of raising a child on the autism spectrum.

Follow us on Instagram at PolarisAcademySocial and reach us at Info@PolarisAcademy.com