Originally from rural Illinois, Sarah passed the long winters getting lost in books and watching Reading Rainbow. Sarah holds a Master of Science in Social Work degree from The University of Texas at Austin and has over 20 years of experience working with children and families in public schools and mental health agencies.
These days, Sarah still loves a good book—her deep interest is learning all about neurotypes. She also loves maximalist decor, drawing birds with pastels, and hanging out in pastures while her daughter rides horses.
Neurodivergent Therapist | Austin TX
“Imagine if we measured success by the amount of safety people felt in our presence.” – Jonathan Louis Dent
Sarah McElvain, LCSW
Sarah is a neuro-affirming therapist who is passionate about supporting other neurodivergent folx. As a late-diagnosed multiply neurodivergent Social Worker (and parent to neurodivergent children), she brings deep lived experience to her clinical work.
She pulls from various therapeutic modalities including narrative, IFS parts work, solutions focused, and Autistic-Centered therapy to help clients integrate their wiring and experiences. Sarah also supports clients with neuro-affirming I-CBT for OCD.
Specializing in working with anyone identifying as or curious about AuDHD, Autistic, ADHD, and PDA.
Person-centered, insight-oriented, co-regulatory, and felt safety focused.
Qualifications & Trainings
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Cultural Competence in Autism Assessment by Adapting to Autism / M Perfect Consulting July 2025
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Autistic Informed Autism Assessment Advanced Training for Licensed Professionals, Properties of Light, September 2024
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MIGDAS 2 Diagnostic Interview System Workshop with Dr. Marilyn Monteiro, June - December 2024
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ADHD and Rejection Sensitivity, Dr. Donna Henderson and Kelly Pickens, May 2025
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Using Internal Family Systems (FS) Therapy with Autistic Clients, Sarah Bergenfield, April 2025
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PDA Masterclass with Dr. Donna Henderson and Dr. Megan Anna Neff December 2024
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Inference-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (I-CBT) Training for OCD, November 2024
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Autism Differential Diagnoses Course (ADHD, BPD, bipolar, and trauma/PTSD), Dr. Theresa Regan, October 2024
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PDA of North America: PDA Level 1 & 2 Certificate Training, January and July 2024
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Collaborative and Proactive Solutions Training with Dr. Ross Greene, June 2024
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Inclusive Approaches to Supporting Neurodivergent Children with ARFID/Feeding Challenges, Spring 2024 Cohort
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Low Demand Parenting Summit, 2024
- Member of the National Association of Social Workers
Specialties
- Autism & ADHD Assessment
- PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance) Profile
- Neuro-affirming Individual Practice
- Trauma-Informed Nervous System Support
- Strength-Based Healing Strategies
- Parental Consultation for Neurodivergence
Populations
- Neurodivergent Children (6+)
- Adolescents & Young Adults
- Adults (Autism, ADHD, AuDHD)
- Parent & Caregiver Support
- PDA-identified Individuals
- LGBTQ+ Neurodivergent community
Individual & Consultation
Session (50 Minute): $165
Session (90 Minute): $270
Parent Consultations: $185
Investment in Your Healing
Sliding Scale & Payment Plans Available
*PDA profile will be indicated for any neuro-assessment
Assessments
- Adult Autism Only: $1200
- Adult AuDHD: $1500
- Child Autism Only: $1400
- Child AuDHD: $1700