What is a psychological assessment?

Psychological assessment is an in-depth process to identify the best explanation for the concerns you have through administering specific psychological testing instruments. I often describe myself as a psychological detective looking to provide insight and answers to questions you have about yourself or your child’s difficulties. Like a detective using expertly applied instruments to a case, the assessment process allows for examination of concerns that are not easily observed but necessary to provide a precise understanding. The assessment process is data-driven, meaning that the data obtained through the right tests provides a powerful interpretation of your child’s difficulties. Since the data determines the diagnosis, I cannot guarantee any specific diagnosis at the start of testing. Rather, I can only report what the data says and cannot provide conclusions that the data does not support.

How can a psychological assessment be helpful?

Precise understanding leads to precise interventions and supports. When there isn’t a precise understanding of one’s functioning and suffering, they often experience school interventions or psychotherapy that tend to be only partially helpful. Undergoing a psychological assessment can provide valuable insights and clarity for various reasons. For individuals struggling with mental health concerns like anxiety or depression, an assessment can lead to a more accurate diagnosis, which in turn informs more effective treatment planning. For parents concerned about their child's learning, a psychoeducational assessment can identify specific learning disabilities such as dyslexia or dysgraphia, allowing for targeted educational interventions and support at school. An ADHD assessment can help individuals understand their challenges with attention and impulsivity, leading to strategies for improved focus and organization. Furthermore, assessment reports can sometimes be used to support applications for academic accommodations or to provide documentation for legal purposes. Ultimately, a comprehensive psychological evaluation offers a deeper understanding of one's strengths and challenges, paving the way for positive change and informed decision-making.

What is the cost of a psychological assessment? Do you take insurance?

Since the psychological assessment process is tailored to answer your specific questions, the price range can vary from $500 - $2,750+. Comprehensive ADHD and Learning Disability testing is $2750. I do not take insurance for testing. I can provide documentation for those seeking possible out-of-network reimbursement.

How long is the assessment process?

The assessment process involves several questionnaires, tests, and interviews that are scored, interpreted, and written into an extensive report. While the timeline varies from case to case, the assessment process tends to be completed in about a month from start to finish. I know that time is crucial to getting the IEP or 504 interventions applied in schools to help course-correct a child’s learning experience and help them succeed, and to prioritize finishing testing cases promptly.

What is a psychological assessment like?

A psychological assessment at my practice typically involves several key steps designed to gather a comprehensive understanding of your (or your child's) cognitive, emotional, and behavioral functioning. The process usually begins with an initial consultation to discuss your concerns and determine the most appropriate type of assessment. Following this, there are one or more testing sessions which may involve standardized questionnaires, interviews, and cognitive or academic tasks, depending on the nature of the assessment (e.g., for ADHD testing or a psychoeducational evaluation). These sessions are conducted in a comfortable and supportive environment. After the testing is complete, I carefully analyze the data and prepare a detailed assessment report outlining the findings and providing recommendations. Finally, a feedback session is scheduled to discuss the results, answer your questions, and collaboratively plan next steps or interventions.

What types of psychological assessments do you offer?

I offer a range of comprehensive psychological assessments to address various needs. These include psychoeducational assessments to evaluate learning styles, identify potential learning disabilities like dyslexia and dysgraphia, and assess for giftedness. I also conduct thorough ADHD assessments for both children and adults to understand attention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Additionally, I provide clinical assessments to clarify diagnostic concerns related to anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and other mental health conditions. For individuals seeking to understand their personality functioning and inform treatment planning, I offer personality assessments. Please contact me to discuss your specific needs and determine which assessment would be most appropriate.