frequently asked questions
What is an evaluation?
A psychological evaluation includes a variety of data gathering methods that can be used to help identify learning, attention, behavior, and other psychological problems. Evaluations include a thorough interview, administration of a series of assessment measures, a comprehensive report to include treatment recommendations, and an hour video feedback session. A psychological evaluation may not only help identify and properly diagnose new concerns, it may also help determine if previous diagnoses are still accurate, and of course, it can help to provide the most appropriate treatment recommendations and school-based accommodations.
What are the benefits of an evaluation?
A comprehensive evaluation can help identify the underlying causes of the behaviors or symptoms your child is exhibiting, and can help to shed light on the “why” behind your child’s behavior. While you can utilize many treatment options without a diagnosis, an accurate diagnosis can help you better identify your child’s needs. More importantly, some treatment paths may look very different depending on the root cause of your child’s struggles. For example, there are many reasons your child may look distracted in school, ADHD being just one of them. Anxiety, processing delays, and learning challenges are additional reasons behind the distractible behavior you may be seeing, and the treatment approaches for each of these concerns is vastly different. While numerous interventions may support your child, understanding the true etiology can help us better target our treatment plan and maximize the benefits for you and your child.
When children are struggling, when spend so much time focusing on the negative, the problem, and the “what’s wrong” that we sometimes find it hard to focus on what’s right. A comprehensive evaluation will not only pinpoint the underlying cause of your child’s challenges, but will also identify your child’s specific areas of strength. By having this information, we can focus on strength-based intervention and treatment plans, which will be most effective in enhancing your child’s overall functioning, mental health, and happiness.
How do I know if my child needs an evaluation?
Determining whether and when your child needs an evaluation is a very personal decision. Sometimes children outgrow behaviors and can learn strategies to compensate for their challenges. However, other times, the stress and frustration that occurs in the meantime can have a lasting impact on your child and your family. Weighing the costs and benefits is an important consideration, and we can help you determine if it is the right time for you during our free phone consultation.
When do you schedule evaluation appointments?
Evening and weekend appointments are available to prevent your child from missing school. Saturdays are also a great option as your child is refreshed and not tired after a long day of school.
How long do evaluation appointment last?
Most evaluations can be completed one 2 to 4 hour session. However, appointments can be broken into two sessions as needed.
How do I pay for services and can I use my insurance?
We are considered an out-of-network provider, and payment is due on the day of the evaluation. However, payments can be split into two payments (i.e., at the time of booking the appointment and the day of evaluation) if needed. We accept cash, check, and all major credit cards. You also may use your Health Saving Account (HSA) Card and Flex Saving Card (FSA) for payment (and for medical cost deductions on taxes). Additionally, you may also seek potential reimbursement from your insurance company through your out-of-network benefits. Your insurance provider may pay partial, full or no payment for services, but the amount covered will depend on your specific policy. Insurance companies do require you to have a diagnosis in order to receive reimbursement.
How much does an evaluation cost?
Given that each evaluation is individualized to your child’s specific needs, rates for can vary considerably ranging from $350 to $2,100. The cost will depend on the types of assessments are given and the time it takes to complete the evaluation. Completion of the full evaluation process can take between 10 to 15 hours, and in addition to the evaluation itself, it includes time spent interpreting the results, writing the report, and the feedback session. Gifted evaluations begin at $350 and psychoeducational evaluations start at $1,440. In order to obtain a more accurate quote for your child’s specific need, please contact us for a free phone consultation.
