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Jessica Belo
About
Hi! I’m Dr. Jessica Belo, a licensed psychologist in the state of Michigan and PSYPACT-authorized to provide telepsychology services to people in 42 U.S. states and territories. I believe that happiness and wellness start with living authentically, and I’m passionate about helping people create lives that work for them. I know that being evaluated can feel like trying to convince someone to believe what only you know – what it’s like to be you – and how hard that is when you’ve often been misunderstood. While Prosper evaluations follow a structured process, I approach each case with openness, nonjudgment, and genuine optimism that our time together will lead to the clarity you’re seeking.
My commitment to supporting the happiness and wellness of autistic and other neurodivergent people comes from both my personal and professional experiences. Before being diagnosed with autism as an adolescent, my now-adult son was given multiple labels that did nothing more than identify him as a problem to be solved. At the time, I didn’t know the labels were wrong, but I did know he wasn’t the problem. When he was finally diagnosed, having the right name to describe what it was like to be him changed everything. Since becoming a psychologist, I’ve encountered countless neurodivergent adults who were previously diagnosed with depression, anxiety, and other disorders, but never got relief from recommended treatments. Many of them suspected the diagnoses were incomplete or wrong, but couldn’t find anyone who listened, understood, and knew how to provide the clarity they needed. I have now conducted hundreds of neurodivergence evaluations – and received my own ADHD diagnosis in adulthood – and have a deep understanding of the vastly unique ways neurodevelopmental differences are experienced, and the life-changing impact of being correctly diagnosed.
When I conduct autism evaluations, I’m focused on the person in front of me — not the boxes they do or do not check. I know it can be difficult to explain experiences about which you may have been told you’re “wrong,” and I’ll never pretend to know more about you than you do. I ask questions so you can help me understand your inner experience, how you’ve navigated neurotypical expectations, the challenges your differences have created, and the qualities about yourself you love the most – even if you aren’t yet comfortable sharing them with others. As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I’m keenly aware of the ways discrimination and marginalization compound the pressure to conceal or minimize differences for a chance at the acceptance, success, and safety that seems to come easily to others. In my work and in my life, I am a tireless advocate for equity, social justice, and the value of diversity in all its forms. Regardless of your evaluation results, my priority is for you to know you are respected, heard, and celebrated for who you authentically are.
