Psy.D. Alumna Dr. Kelsey Allison Provides Autism Assessment Training to Current Students
Published
Marywood University Psy.D. alumna Dr. Kelsey Allison, Psy.D. ’22, returned to campus on July 23 to provide current Psy.D. students with specialized training in evidence-based assessment for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
A recipient of the coveted William G. McGowan Medal for Excellence in Doctoral Studies, Dr. Allison currently serves as Psychologist Supervisor at Scranton Counseling Center. She generously facilitated the training for Marywood’s Psy.D. students at no cost.
The training provided students with an introduction to the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, Second Edition (ADOS-2), a widely recognized assessment tool used in the evaluation of Autism Spectrum Disorder. Dr. Allison shared her expertise in evidence-based assessment and provided students with an opportunity to learn from a practicing psychologist with specialized experience in autism evaluation.
Dr. Allison is among the relatively small number of psychologists in Northeastern Pennsylvania with the specialized training and expertise necessary to diagnose Autism Spectrum Disorder. The shortage of qualified providers has contributed to a nine-month waitlist for autism assessments at Scranton Counseling Center, highlighting a significant need for additional professionals trained in evidence-based autism assessment.
The shortage of qualified autism assessment providers is not unique to Northeastern Pennsylvania. Communities across the country, particularly those outside large metropolitan areas, face limited access to specialists, leaving many individuals without a diagnosis and unable to access services and supports.
For Marywood’s current Psy.D. students, Dr. Allison’s training represents an opportunity to begin developing expertise in an area of significant need. Her willingness to share her knowledge with the next generation of psychologists demonstrates the continued impact of Marywood’s Psy.D. alumni within the profession and the broader community.
Dr. Allison’s visit also reflects the value of the connections that continue between Marywood’s Psy.D. program and its graduates, creating opportunities for students to learn directly from professionals who are actively addressing critical needs in the field.
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