Typical Assessments
Though all assessments at our office are unique and tailored to the needs and symptoms expressed in each child, the general outline of a comprehensive Psychoeducational assessment at our office is as follows:
1 hour Initial Consultation
The assessment process begins with a one hour consultation with families. This consultation allows us to garner a better understanding of a parent's perspective on their child's strengths and areas of challenge, and provides us with insight into the effectiveness of strategies utilized thus far in the home, at school, and in the community.
1 hour Naturalistic Observation
Next, we spend one hour observing your child in his or her natural environment (e.g., at school, on a family outing, during lessons, etc.). Including your child’s teacher (both through garnering their comments and opinions, as well as through being in the classroom) very often helps to foster a more collaborative environment.
6 hours of Standardized Testing
The face-to-face testing portion of the assessment incorporates several standardized testing measures. This process is six hours in duration (arranged in three two-hour appointments). Testing batteries are developed to cater to the learning profile and areas of potential concern expressed in each individual.
1.5 hour Feedback Meeting
The results are analyzed and, one to two weeks following the final assessment session, are presented to parents. This feedback meeting (and accompanying report) outlines your child's learning style and overall profile, discusses any potential diagnostic implications, and directs intervention to help bring about your child’s potential. Many parents also request that we present the results and recommendations of the assessment to relevant personnel at their child’s school.
4-5 hours of report writing
Though utilized as a reference tool in the daily life of the families we work with, most parents also provide copies of the report to their child’s school and pediatrician. The report, in essence, provides an account of your child’s life to the present; it reads like a story told in a way to promote understanding and acceptance. As we gather information from several sources (teachers, parents, the child), the report incorporates various perspectives and opinions, and points out the precise strategies to ameliorate your child’s issues post-assessment. It is the starting point for the family, the school, and relevant medical personnel to formulate a plan to enhance success.