Novi Minds -formerly Stefanie Rushatakankovit, LEP

10/08/2025

10/01/2025

Girls don’t always ‘look’ autistic or ADHD — and too often, that means they go unnoticed.

Had the privilege of speaking with , an impressive therapist group serving the community, about understanding the differences between autism, ADHD, and social anxiety- especially in females.

The latest research shows girls are often diagnosed years later than boys because their struggles can be less obvious on the surface, which can lead to more anxiety, self-doubt, and fewer supports during the time they need them most.

At Novi Minds Educational Psychology, Inc., we’re passionate about helping kids and teens get clarity early, so they can thrive.

09/10/2025

So proud to celebrate the 10 year anniversary of Our Village, a small but mighty non-profit dedicated to supporting local South Bay families with neurodivergent kids, teens, and young adults who need social skills support!😊 As a volunteer board member for the last 7 years, it's been so great to see it grow, and it wouldn't have been possible without community partners like Beach Cities District, Harbor Regional Center, and more!

07/22/2025

What it's almost August?! If you have or know a 7th-12th grader who has been struggling with friendships or may be socially awkward, this group will help teens understanding the unwritten rules of socializing and practicing the skills in a supportive environment. Formed based on age & grade. Send a DM for more info!

07/17/2025

Girls with autism are often missed—not because they aren’t showing signs, but because those signs can look different.

This article sheds light on how special interests show up in autistic women and girls, and why recognizing these patterns matters.

More awareness = less stigma. And for many, finally seeing themselves in the autism framework brings relief, clarity, and empowerment.

https://www.wpspublish.com/blog/autism-in-women-girls-special-interests

Restricted interests are more than a diagnostic indicator. They are a window into the joys and challenges autistic girls and women experience every day.

06/26/2025

I can't help but be biased towards my alma mater! https://www.uclahealth.org/news/release/no-one-play-with-uclas-peers-preschoolers-program-changing

06/10/2025

Super excited to announce our next Social Skills group for ages 4-6! This is a parent only, online course, hot off the press from UCLA, with positive outcomes similar to the in-person child+parent group. This means more access for more families. I'll be teaching this with another social skills pro, Monica Adimari Fyfe. Open to any parents in CA. DM or go to the website for more info!

05/20/2025

04/02/2025

More awareness of helps people understand behaviors with empathy instead of judgment. But for some, it can also feel overwhelming or even negative, leading to internal conflict.

That’s why self-advocacy and positive identity are so important. This video by the Autistic Self Advocacy Network is a great resource I’ve used to help autistic kids/kids with autism understand, accept, and feel good about who they are. 💙

Watch here: https://youtu.be/XnuGPJ7UdpU?si=9bdj6UTZcABjk5CB

04/01/2025

Happy Month! 💙

I first started learning about as an undergrad at , and the progress in research since then has been incredible. While there’s no single known cause, autism is widely understood to be linked to differences in brain structure and function—not vaccines.

With prevalence now at 1 in 36, every child will have classmates with autism. The more we understand, the better our kids can learn empathy and create inclusive spaces where neurodivergent kids thrive.

Check out these latest stats! ⬇️

03/20/2025

Summer planning in effect! Reach out now before the spring break-end of school-start of summer whirlwind begins. Groups are screened to optimize a fun, positive dynamic to help your teen get the most out of this program.