Chrisha Anderson, PhD, LPCC

My name is Dr. Chrisha Anderson (she/her) of Wayward Therapy, and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in the states of Ohio, Kentucky, California, and North Carolina. The dictionary defines "wayward" as difficult, headstrong, or disobedient. As a slang term, however, wayward often refers to someone who doesn't conform to what's "typical," and who forges their own unique path. My goal as a therapist is to help you find your best and most authentic self, whatever that means for you. I approach counseling as an active partnership, where trust, comfort, and acceptance are essential. Client and therapist work together to form a trusting relationship and explore issues, identify strengths, and work towards solutions and growth. I am also a firm believer in the power of storytelling and fandom, and I greatly enjoy incorporating popular culture of all kinds into therapy. Movies, television, music, or other hobbies which bring joy to our lives all have the ability to move us, heal us, bring us together, and help us learn about ourselves, which can be a valuable therapeutic tool. Licensure Information: Ohio: E. 1901038 (Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor) Kentucky: 104286 (Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor) California: 12595 (Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor) North Carolina: 20600 (Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor) Services offered: Individual Therapy ADHD & Autism Screenings ADHD & Autism Diagnostic Assessments * * * FOR INDIVIDUAL THERAPY: Please note that at this time, my caseload for ongoing individual therapy is full and openings are rare. However, you are still welcome to submit your information through the "Contact" button at the top of the page, and I can contact you if an opening becomes available in the future. * * * FOR ADHD & AUTISM SCREENING/ASSESSMENTS: Immediate openings are available - please submit requests through the "Contact" button at the top of the page. Adult ADHD and Autism Assessments: I specialize in adult neurodivergence and am highly qualified to guide you through the assessment process. The assessment and screening services are specifically for adults (21+) who believe they may have ADHD or be autistic. I offer two (2) options for those seeking validation of their neurodivergence. Option 1: Adult ADHD & Autism Screening (“Neuro Screening”) Cost: $450 (payment plans available) Time: 90 minutes | Service: No diagnosis provided The screening consists of questions  regarding your traits, history, and challenges only in relation to ADHD and autism. A quick review of your information is compared to DSM-5 diagnostic criteria. There is typically no waiting time for the screening report. Your provider will discuss their findings and advise whether continuing with the diagnostic assessment (Option 2) is warranted. Option 2: Adult ADHD & Autism Diagnostic Assessment (“Cherry AADI”) Cost: $1,000 (payment plans available) Time: 180 minutes in interview + 30-minute follow-up session Service: Formal diagnosis and recommendations provided Tool: Cherry Adult ADHD-Autism Diagnostic Interview (Cherry AADI) Developed by Lindley Cherry, LCMHC, QS, NCC, the Cherry Adult ADHD-Autism Diagnostic Interview is a clinical assessment method designed specifically for identifying ADHD, autism, and co-occurring presentations (AuDHD) in adults. Key Features: -Adult-Centered Approach: Unlike tools designed for children and adapted for adults, the Cherry AADI was created specifically for adult presentations, accounting for developmental masking, compensatory strategies, and life experience factors. -Culturally Responsive: Incorporates systematic consideration of cultural, gender, and identity factors that influence neurodivergent presentation and recognition. -Strengths-Based: Emphasizes individual neurological profiles and environmental fit rather than deficit-focused assessment. -Comprehensive Scope: Addresses not only core diagnostic criteria but also masking behaviors, sensory processing differences, and pathological demand avoidance patterns. Additional Information: -Fee covers the time taken for assessment interview, all additional time spent completing documentation or related tasks, and follow-up session. -A thorough review of your information is cross-examined with common misdiagnoses then compared to DSM-5 diagnostic criteria. -A comprehensive diagnostic report based on the data acquired during the assessment process is completed and a copy provided to you. -The wait time for the diagnostic report ranges from only 2 – 4 weeks. -At the follow-up session, your provider will discuss their findings and provide a copy of the assessment for you to review and approve. -This 2-part system allows you to receive services at a speed that is comfortable for you. It also allows you to divide the cost over time. If your screening indicates that continuing with the diagnosis is not warranted, or the screening is sufficient to satisfy your needs, you do not have to spend any additional time or money completing the comprehensive assessment. * * *Assessments are private pay only. Insurance is not accepted, and CANNOT be submitted for insurance reimbursement.