I approach research as a tool for change, asking questions with direct implications for policy, practice, and the systems we're working to improve. I strive to ensure that my research is informed by the perspectives of the people those systems are failing most.
In my Master of Public Health program at California State University, Sacramento, I focused on neurodiversity. My research asks how we can change our systems to better meet the needs of neurodivergent people – and how findings from adjacent fields can inform Systems Change for Neurodiversity. I plan to pursue doctoral studies to deepen this work.
I also made it my job to stay informed about current research in neurodiversity. If we haven’t connected yet, please reach out to tell me about your work.
Research
Current Research
Adult ADHD: Patient Experience of Diagnosis and Treatment
Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in adults remains underdiagnosed and undertreated, despite media reports highlighting the increase in adult ADHD diagnoses. Until clinical practice guidelines for diagnosing and treating ADHD in adults (currently in development) are released in the U.S., there remains a gap with serious consequences for millions of people navigating a healthcare system that is not designed to support them.
My multi-phase research project explores the patient experience of this systems gap. In Spring 2025, I led a team that completed a scoping review of the evidence describing the patient journey of adults seeking care for ADHD [manuscript in preparation]. In Fall 2025, I conducted a survey of adults (n=238) who sought diagnosis for ADHD in the past 18 months. In Spring 2026, I began qualitative interviews to gather detailed and nuanced accounts of the adult diagnosis journey.
I have presented this work at two major national conferences, and a manuscript is in preparation.
Policy Research: Expanding Access to Autism Intervention
After seven years of persistent advocacy, California's SB 805 (2023) expanded private insurance coverage for autism treatment beyond Applied Behavior Analysis. My policy analysis examines the regulatory landscape and recommends implementation options to make the law's promise real for autistic Californians and their families.
Research Assistantships
I serve as a research assistant on two projects where neurodiversity and systems change meet.
Dr. Katie Savin
California State University, Sacramento / National Academy of Social Insurance
I support Dr. Katie Savin (California State University, Sacramento / National Academy of Social Insurance) in their investigation of barriers to SSI and SSDI – the federal disability benefits that should be a lifeline for neurodivergent and other disabled adults and too often aren't.
Dr. Margaret Sibley
Seattle Children's Research Institute
I am a member of a research team led by Dr. Margaret Sibley (Seattle Children's Research Institute) investigating whether ADHD symptoms appear as side effects of commonly prescribed medications – a question with immediate implications for providers and patients navigating ADHD diagnosis and treatment
Antiracism and Justice in Education Systems
With co-author Joaquin Muñoz, I wrote a chapter for the Bloomsbury Handbook of Steiner Waldorf Education examining how communities connected to Waldorf schools in North America have addressed concerns about racism in their schools. Our argument: relying on European-produced reports to respond to those concerns falls short. The chapter reflects the commitment to social justice and antiracist practice that runs through my work in neurodiversity.
© 2026 Jenn Raley Miller. All rights reserved.
