Three steps, and none of them are complicated.
First steps
How to get started.
A free 20-minute call
No charge, no pressure. We talk about what's going on and whether this practice is actually the right place for it. If it isn't, we'll tell you and point you somewhere better.
Paperwork and scheduling
If we're a fit, you'll get secure portal access to complete intake forms, consents, and rating scales before your first visit — so we spend the appointment talking, not typing.
Your first full appointment
Sixty minutes. History, current concerns, what's been tried, what worked and what didn't. You leave with a working formulation and a plan — in plain language, and written down.
What to expect
Your first appointment, step by step.
- Before
Paperwork done in advance
Intake forms, consents, and rating scales are completed through the secure portal beforehand. Bring a list of current medications and doses, and any prior evaluations or school reports if you have them.
- First 20 minutes
The story
What brought you here, when it started, what it looks like day to day. For children, we want the developmental history and what teachers are seeing, not just what happens at home.
- Middle
The systematic part
Structured review of symptoms, sleep, mood, medical history, family history, and prior treatment. This is where the differential gets narrowed — several things imitate ADHD and autism, and they need to be ruled in or out properly.
- Last 15 minutes
The plan
What we think is going on, why, what the options are, and what each one involves. You'll be asked what you think about it. If medication is on the table, you'll hear the risks and alternatives before anything is prescribed.
- After
Follow-up scheduled before you leave
Usually two to four weeks out. Early appointments are close together on purpose — that's when adjustments matter most.
What to bring
- A list of current medications and doses, including supplements
- Previous evaluations, testing, or psychiatric records if you have them
- For children: report cards, IEP or 504 documents, and any teacher notes
- Photo ID and a payment method
- Your questions, written down. People forget them otherwise.
For telehealth visits
You'll get a secure video link before your appointment. You need to be physically located in Michigan at the time of the visit — that's a licensing requirement, not a preference.
Find a private space with decent internet. For a child's first evaluation, we usually recommend coming in person if you can.
If this is an emergency
FirstLight is an outpatient practice and does not provide crisis or after-hours care. If you or someone you care about is in immediate danger:
- Call or text 988 — Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
- Call 911 or go to your nearest emergency department
Practice policies
The things worth knowing up front.
| Policy | Detail |
|---|---|
| Cancellations | 48 hours' notice, please. Cancellations inside that window and missed appointments are charged the full visit fee — that time was held for you and can rarely be filled. |
| Refills | Request through the patient portal, allowing 2–3 business days. Refills require an established treatment relationship and current follow-up. Controlled substances cannot be refilled early. |
| Messaging | Secure portal messages are answered within 1–2 business days. Messaging is not for urgent concerns. |
| After hours | There is no after-hours or on-call service. For emergencies, use 988 or 911. |
| Payment | Due at time of service. A card is kept on file through our secure payment processor. |
| Interpreters | Professional interpreter services are available at no cost to you. Tell us what you need when you reach out and we'll arrange it in advance. |
| Accessibility | Tell us what you need — sensory accommodations, a quieter waiting arrangement, written follow-up instead of verbal, or a longer appointment. Just ask. |
FAQs
Frequently asked.
When are you accepting patients?
Not yet. We're building the waitlist now, ahead of opening in Ann Arbor. Everyone on the list is contacted first, in order, as soon as scheduling opens — and we'll email a firm date to the list before we announce it publicly.
What ages do you see?
Children, adolescents, and adults. Autism and ADHD present very differently at six, sixteen, and thirty-six, and each of those needs a different kind of appointment.
Do you offer telehealth?
Yes, for patients physically located anywhere in Michigan. Some visits are better in person — particularly first evaluations for younger children — and we'll be straightforward with you about which is which.
Do you prescribe stimulant medication?
Yes, when it's clinically indicated and after a proper evaluation. We follow Michigan controlled-substance requirements, including the state prescription monitoring program. We do not prescribe stimulants on a first contact without an adequate assessment.
Do you provide therapy?
Our focus is diagnostic assessment and medication management, along with parent guidance. Most patients do best with a dedicated therapist alongside us, and we keep relationships with local clinicians we trust and refer to regularly.
Can you diagnose autism in an adult?
Yes. A large number of autistic adults were never identified as children — particularly those who learned to mask well. Late identification is a significant part of what we do.
Do I need a referral?
No. You can contact us directly. If another clinician is already involved in your care, we'd like to coordinate with them, with your written permission.
What if English isn't my first language?
Professional interpreter services are available at no cost to you for any appointment. Please tell us what you need when you reach out so we can arrange it in advance.
Will you talk to my child's school?
Yes, with your written consent. We provide documentation for IEP and 504 planning and will speak with school staff when it helps.
What happens if you're not the right fit?
We'll say so, ideally on the free call before anyone has paid anything, and we'll try to point you toward a practice that fits better.
Take the first step.
Add your name to the waitlist and we'll contact you first when scheduling opens.