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Mark Pennick
About
Hello and welcome. My name is Mark Pennick, and I am a licensed clinician specializing in comprehensive autism evaluations for adolescents and adults. Through my work with Full Spectrum Therapeutic Services, I have dedicated my practice to supporting neurodivergent individuals in gaining clarity, validation, and a deeper understanding of themselves.I currently live in Colorado and am licensed in Colorado. My background includes extensive experience in psychological assessment, differential diagnosis, and working with individuals who may have gone years without having their experiences fully recognized or understood.I believe that the diagnostic process should feel respectful, collaborative, and empowering. Seeking an autism evaluation as an adult can bring up many emotions—curiosity, relief, uncertainty, even grief. My role is to create a safe, affirming space where you feel heard, validated, and supported throughout the process. Every person’s story matters, and I approach each evaluation with care, curiosity, and deep respect for your lived experience.
My passion for working with autistic and neurodivergent adults began with recognizing how many individuals—particularly women, people of color, and high-masking adults—are overlooked or misunderstood for years. I have witnessed how powerful it can be when someone finally receives language for their experiences. An accurate, affirming diagnosis is not about labeling—it is about clarity, self-understanding, and access to support. It can transform self-doubt into self-compassion. I deeply respect neurodiversity and view autism not as something to “fix,” but as a valid and meaningful way of experiencing the world. I am continually inspired by the insight, creativity, resilience, and authenticity within the autistic community. My work is driven by a desire to ensure that individuals feel seen, believed, and accurately understood.
My approach to assessment is strengths-based, neurodiversity-affirming, and collaborative. While part of diagnostic work involves identifying areas of challenge, I place equal—if not greater—emphasis on recognizing strengths, adaptive strategies, and unique cognitive and interpersonal qualities. I conduct evaluations in a way that reduces stigma and honors masking, burnout, sensory differences, and intersectional identities. I take time to understand not only symptoms, but context—your developmental history, coping strategies, relationships, and lived experience. Rather than viewing autism through a deficit lens, I approach each evaluation with the understanding that neurodivergence comes with both challenges and profound strengths. My goal is for you to leave the process feeling validated, informed, and empowered—regardless of the diagnostic outcome. If you identify with particular cultural, gender, or neurodivergent communities, I am committed to practicing with cultural humility and ongoing education to ensure my work remains affirming and inclusive.
