Dr. Bolnick works with many teens and adults who have either been newly diagnosed with or suspect that they have Level 1 Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). She looks at treatment from the perspective that individual uniqueness through neurodiversity is something to be honored and not pathologized. Treatment is to better understand your strengths and weaknesses, ways to cope in our overstimulating world, as well as improve skills in the areas you wish to work on to function better at work, home, and/or school. From a symptom perspective, there tends to be a mix of ADHD symptoms (inattention, hyperactivity, impulse control difficulties), anxiety (generalized, social, and/or obsessive-compulsive in nature) and depression symptoms, along with social communication issues and sensory dysregulation (sensory defensiveness and/or sensory seeking). Dr. Bolnick started working with developmental disabilities in 1999 and continues to take courses to stay up to date on the current research and treatment options.

 

The sensory dysregulation experienced can be felt by the body as if the world is a personal threat to safety, causing fight, flight, and freeze responses. Dr. Bolnick is informed by Polyvagal Theory (emphasizes the role of the autonomic nervous system in regulating health and behavior), Mindfulness (mind-body connection), and Somatic Therapies (body-centered therapy), allowing her to use more traditional Behavioral and Cognitive Behavioral Therapies, along with Physical practices for a more holistic approach. At times, consultation with an Occupational Therapist specializing in ASD can be beneficial for identifying a Sensory Diet to keep the nervous system better regulated.

 

Neurodivergent individuals also are at higher risk of being in abusive relationships and experiencing Interpersonal Violence (IPV) or Domestic Violence. Dr. Bolnick has completed training in Narcissistic Abuse Treatment, allowing her to help educate and spot the warning signs of power and control in these relationships.

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Dr. Bolnick's experience with this population began in Undergrad, while working at The Cove School (a private school in the Chicagoland area specializing in teaching IEP students with Learning Disabilities and related disorders). Her understanding of Special Education, assessment, remediation, and behavior planning deepened during her Master’s training at Northwestern University's Learning Disabilities Program in the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders. During her Doctoral training in Clinical Psychology at the Chicago School of Professional Psychology, Dr. Bolnick worked at Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center’s Pediatric Developmental Center. She conducted behavioral assessments and in-home therapy with families who have children with developmental disorders and/or chronic medical conditions, as well as co-facilitated monthly socialization groups for Autistic children and children in Early Intervention services. 

 

**Please note that Dr. Bolnick does not conduct formal assessments for ASD.

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**Given statements from the Secretary of Health and Human Services that pathologize Autism, many are concerned about pursuing diagnosis and treatment. Dr. Bolnick takes the security of your data very seriously. If you have questions about how she handles these issues, please ask for more details.