Meet Dr. Jessica Alvarez

Ph.D

Licensed Psychologist

A woman with blonde hair is smiling outdoors, wearing a beige crochet zip-up sweater and a gold necklace with a small pendant, with trees in the background.

I am a Licensed Psychologist and former Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) with a deep passion for supporting children, parents, caregivers, and families. My work is grounded in collaboration- I believe that meaningful change happens when children and caregivers feel supported, guided, and empowered. I specialize in comprehensive psychoeducational and autism evaluations for children and adolescents ages 2.5–18, as well as JATP testing for grades K–5. Many families come to me with questions about learning styles, academic struggles, attention concerns, or whether their child may benefit from accommodations or additional services. My evaluations assess cognitive and academic strengths and challenges and help determine whether diagnoses such as ADHD, learning disabilities, developmental delays, or autism spectrum disorder are appropriate. I conduct both initial evaluations and re-evaluations for individuals who already have an autism diagnosis and need updated testing for school or insurance purposes. Providing clear neuroaffirming diagnostic feedback and thoughtful treatment planning are the most meaningful parts of my work.

In addition to comprehensive psychoeducation evaluations, I provide behavioral assessment and treatment for concerns such as tantrums, aggression, disruptive behaviors, self-injury, noncompliance, elopement, sleep challenges, inappropriate sexual behavior, and other behaviors that significantly impact daily life. I also support parents through research-driven behavior plans for toileting concerns and encopresis. I have worked with both neurodivergent and neurotypical children, including many with developmental disabilities and autism spectrum disorder. Together, we work to understand the “why” behind behaviors, reduce what’s getting in the way, and build skills that help children and families thrive. I also frequently support families with everyday challenges like morning routines, homework battles, bedtime struggles, and behavior difficulties in community settings. My goal is always to help caregivers understand what their child is communicating through behavior and to equip them with tools that feel realistic, compassionate, and effective.

My approach is neuroaffirming, strengths-based, and rooted in behavioral science. I help caregivers identify the concerns they’re experiencing, understand the function of the behavior, develop individualized treatment recommendations, and build confidence through caregiver training. I stay closely involved during the early stages of treatment and gradually support families in becoming independent and empowered in setting and achieving future goals. My training also includes advocacy within school systems, particularly around Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs) and Individualized Education Plans (IEPs), ensuring that children’s needs are understood and supported across environments.

I received my Ph.D. in School Psychology from Louisiana State University and my Bachelor’s degree from the University of Iowa. My internship at the Marcus Autism Center included rotations in Severe Behavior, Language and Learning, Toileting, and Feeding Disorders. I completed my postdoctoral fellowship through the Emory School of Medicine, again at the Marcus Autism Center, where I worked across the Severe Behavior Program’s Intensive Day Treatment Clinic, Outpatient Program, and Intake Program. These experiences shaped my commitment to compassionate, evidence-based care for children with complex behavioral needs.

Families often come to me feeling unsure, exhausted, or worried they’ve “tried everything.” Many share that what worked for one child doesn’t work for another, or that they feel overwhelmed by conflicting advice. I understand how vulnerable it can feel to seek help, and I strive to create an environment where you feel supported, understood, and in the right place. My therapy personality is kind, supportive, and empathetic. I want you to feel that you and your child are safe with me—that nothing is “too much,” and that you don’t have to navigate these challenges alone.

My hope is that through our work together, you feel more confident, more informed, and more connected to your child. I believe deeply in providing neuroaffirming diagnosis and treatment planning that honors each child’s individuality and helps families move forward with clarity and hope. I look forward to supporting you and your family as you navigate this journey.

Outside of work, I enjoy reading, traveling, and trying new restaurants. My weekends are typically spent at Avalon, downtown Alpharetta, or a youth sports tournament. I have two children, so I deeply empathize with the pressures of parenting in the world we live in.