Jaclyn Wolf, Ph.D.
Licensed Psychologist | CA PSY33665 & Credentialed School Psychologist
CLIENT FOCUS
Children and adolescents across all ages, particularly those with complex presentations where learning and social-emotional/behavioral challenges intersect.
ASSESSMENT APPROACH
Strengths-Based
Neurodiversity-Affirming
Identity-Affirming
Culturally & Linguistically Informed
Holistic
Rapport-Focused
ISSUES COVERED
Educational Advocacy (IEPs/504 Plans)
Learning Differences
Executive Functioning
ADHD
Behavioral Challenges
Autism (including high-masking presentations)
Multilingual Assessment
Depression
Anxiety
Trauma
School Placement
Over ten years of experience providing psychological services across varied settings
Jaclyn's dual training in clinical and school psychology gives her unique insight into how learning and neurodevelopmental differences impact children across settings, allowing her to bridge communication between families and schools effectively.
Her exceptional ability to build rapport with reluctant or anxious children creates an assessment environment where children feel safe sharing their true experiences, resulting in more comprehensive and accurate evaluations.
Jaclyn's expertise in identifying "high-masking" presentations helps uncover subtle or hidden challenges in children who may appear to be functioning well on the surface but are struggling internally.
"I often feel that what I do for work isn't really a 'job,' and that's because it's such a profound privilege to interact with children and their families in this capacity. I hope that my passion for this work shines through in each interaction, and that children and their families feel seen, empowered, and supported. Our work doesn't end when the testing process does: I remain available to support the children and families I work with through each step of what's ahead, advocating alongside them to reduce barriers and get the support they need."
- Jaclyn Wolf
Jaclyn Wolf is a Licensed Psychologist and Credentialed School Psychologist who specializes in comprehensive evaluations for children and adolescents, with particular expertise in educational advocacy (IEPs/504 Plans), identity-affirming/strengths-based assessment, and understanding how learning differences and neurodevelopmental conditions manifest as social-emotional and behavioral challenges.
Jaclyn's unique training in both clinical and school psychology allows her to bridge the gap between educational and mental health services, ensuring children receive the support they truly need.
With an energetic, kind, and knowledgeable approach, Jaclyn quickly builds rapport with children and adolescents—even those who are initially hesitant to engage in the assessment process. Parents have noted that "she made this a comfortable, and even fun, process for our child. He was less overwhelmed and more empowered" through her engaging assessment style.
Jaclyn excels at identifying "high-masking" presentations of conditions like autism, anxiety, and ADHD, skillfully uncovering symptoms that children may feel afraid or self-conscious to disclose. Her ability to create a safe, accepting environment allows children to share aspects of their experience they might otherwise keep hidden, leading to more accurate understanding of their needs.
Beyond her core specialties, Jaclyn assesses children experiencing behavioral outbursts, trauma, executive functioning challenges, and provides guidance on school placement decisions. Her strong background in multilingualism and cultural sensitivity makes her particularly effective in the assessment of multilingual youth and children from diverse backgrounds.
What distinguishes Jaclyn's work is her commitment to demystifying the process of accessing school services. Drawing from her school-based practice experience, she provides clear, practical guidance to help parents navigate the often-complex educational system. Additionally, her background in residential treatment gives her deep insight into the social-emotional and behavioral manifestations of various conditions, recognizing patterns that might otherwise be missed.
Jaclyn's identity-affirming, strengths-based approach ensures that each child's unique characteristics are recognized and valued, not pathologized. Her evaluations highlight capabilities alongside challenges, helping children develop positive self-understanding while also addressing areas of difficulty.
The assessment relationship doesn't end when testing concludes—Jaclyn remains available to support families through next steps, advocating alongside them to reduce barriers and secure appropriate services. Her commitment to ongoing support reflects her view that psychological assessment is not just a diagnostic process but the beginning of a journey toward greater understanding and empowerment.
Outside of work, Jaclyn enjoys spending time with family and friends, working out, going to concerts, and baking.