SACHS CENTER
What is unique about the Sachs Center?
We are specialists in the testing and treatment of neurodiverse challenges. Specifically, ADHD and Autism. Since this is all we treat, we understand the nuances that other doctors may miss or misunderstand. As well, we provide a holistic approach to treatment, not seeing you or your loved one just as a label or diagnosis, but as an individual with unique strengths and weaknesses.
Do you have child psychologists?
Dr. Sachs is a child psychologist, and one of only a handful of male child psychologists in New York City with a thorough understanding of ADD /ADHD and Autism.
Do you prescribe medicine?
No. We do not but can make a referral to a psychiatrist or nurse practitioner we recommend to our clients.
Do you take insurance?
We work out of network with insurance companies. After receiving payment from you, we will provide you with a superbill or receipt so you can seek reimbursement from your insurance carrier.
Do you offer a sliding scale?
We do not offer a sliding scale.
On average what is the number of women to men that are diagnosed at the Sachs Center?
About 70% of patients at the Sachs center are women. In the last few years, more women have been seeking treatment at the Sachs Center (this reflects trends found in the general population).
Are you experienced in diagnosing black women with autism?
All psychologists at the Sachs Center are trained in understanding the specific needs of BIPOC neurodivergent communities. At the Sachs Center, we service an ethnically and culturally diverse clientele with a range of symptom presentations and diagnoses. We understand potential concerns and fears that you may have about being understood. We work hard to listen and learn from our patients’ experiences as we conduct our evaluations.
TESTING
How do I know if I have ADHD??
The best way to tell if you have ADHD is through a comprehensive evaluation. The Sachs Center offers a 2-hour comprehensive evaluation that includes a clinical interview and evidence-based assessments of executive functioning.
Can you really diagnose ADHD or ASD via zoom? How is that effective?
Yes, you can conduct assessments and testing remotely. Research indicates that telehealth is just as effective as in-person care.
How do you keep a child's attention during a remote evaluation?
This is a valid concern to have as a parent because it can be difficult to keep children engaged even in an in-person session. When working with children, we make sure to establish a strong connection with the child and incorporate their interests into sessions to make therapy engaging and a positive experience in their lives.
What do the individual therapy sessions for ADHD (or ASD) consist of?
Individual sessions are tailored to each client depending on their symptoms and presenting problems. Not everyone with ADHD comes to therapy for the same reasons and not everyone has the same symptoms. Typically, we will start by conducting an evaluation of your symptoms and presenting problems and implement interventions to target the symptoms. For example, cognitive behavioral therapy is a form of treatment that has been shown to be effective in treating ADHD.
What is the difference between a diagnostic evaluation and neuropsychological testing?
A diagnostic evaluation consists of a clinical interview and evidence-based self-report rating scales to determine a diagnosis. Following this evaluation, you are provided a letter with your diagnosis. This form of evaluation is really helpful if you want to know what is going on with yourself or your loved one. It is important to understand, this letter will NOT help you receive accommodations on any standardized testing (SAT, LSAT, college, etc.).
To receive accommodations, you would need a neuropsychological evaluation. The neuropsychological evaluations are eight hours long, intensive, and consist of many tests (memory, IQ, executive functioning, processing speed). Aside from tests of cognitive and academic performance, these evaluations include clinical interviews with clients and families. All the information gathered is utilized to provide an in-depth overview of your cognitive strengths and weakness. The neuropsychological testing culminates in a 25-page report, which you can use to seek accommodations.
The Sachs Center provides both diagnostic and neuropsychological evaluations.
Will it be Dr. Sachs that evaluates me?
We have excellent licensed psychologists who may be evaluating you. All the psychologists at the Sachs Center are trained in administering ADHD and ASD assessments and consult with Dr. Sachs regularly.
What type of tests will I be given for ADHD & ASD?
We give several evidence-based clinically proven self-report and parent-report measures for both ADHD and ASD.
TREATMENT
Does therapy Work?
Absolutely! Countless studies have shown that psychotherapeutic treatment works. The effects have been measured in terms of improved social functioning, relief from anxiety, and reductions in depression.
Do you offer Neurofeedback?
We do not offer neurofeedback anymore but can recommend a good provider in Manhattan.
What is the best treatment for ADHD?
Current research demonstrates that a combination of medication, education, and support through therapy or coaching is most effective. Your therapist will work with you to develop a treatment plan that suits your individual goals, needs, and comfort level.
What is a good diet to help ADD or Autism?
While no one diet has been definitively proven to treat symptoms of ADD or Autism, we recommend a Mediterranean Diet to better control the roller coaster feelings associated with ADHD or Autism.
What model of therapy do you practice?
Each therapist at the Sachs Center utilizes a different therapeutic approach based on the needs of the client. For example, the coaching process is much more cognitive and behavioral with a solution-oriented approach. Dr. Sachs was trained in both CBT and Gestalt psychotherapy and uses both in his treatment process.
How do you work with schools or outside psychiatrists?
We employ an open approach to treatment. With your permission, we will talk with outside doctors and school officials to help you get the most out of the change process.
Will the Sachs Center ever resume in-person sessions?
We provide in-depth 8-hour neuropsychological evaluations in person, but all other services are only offered remotely.
Do you have group sessions for adults?
At the moment we do not have group sessions for adults.
Do you do coaching?
Yes. We offer a strength-based approach to coaching that focuses on your core values, short and long-term goals. Our experience with ADHD allows us to tailor your program to maximize your unique abilities. In addition to nutritional coaching and organizational coaching, we also specialize in life and social skill coaching for teens and adults on the spectrum.