LEARNING DISABILITY TESTING AND/OR NEUROPSYCHOLOGICAL EVALUATION

WHY WOULD I BENEFIT FROM THIS SERVICE?

• Increased understanding of learning style

• Suggestions for academic accommodations within the school system

• Detailed description of strengths and weaknesses

• Information for educational and vocational decisions

• Documentation of diagnosis written in format that will meet requirements for educational systems

• Reliable differential diagnosis

• Recommendations for treatment when warranted

WHAT TO EXPECT:

Step 1—Assessment:

There are two primary tests that must be administered as part of this testing process – a measure of cognitive functioning and a measure of academic achievement skills.  Based upon results of these measures, additional tests targeted at clarifying areas of strength and weakness will be completed, such as memory and/or specific academic/cognitive domain targeted assessments.  To assist with making this a positive experience, we promote a relaxing atmosphere during testing that allows for breaks when needed to ensure results that are not influenced by fatigue.

Clients (and parents) will complete various behavior rating scales used to assess symptoms associated with emotional/behavioral concerns.  Since best practice in assessment involves gather information about a client's functioning across settings, we will also attempt to obtain a teacher report when applicable. 

Step 2—Clinical Interview/ Information Gathering:

A diagnostic interview to gather information regarding the client’s developmental, health, school/work, and family history will be completed. This step involves a comprehensive review of the presenting concerns and review of any relevant records (previous evaluation reports, report cards, and/or work samples).   Based upon interview findings, semi-structured interviews may be completed with clients (and families) with a specific focus on differentiating between the many psychological disorders that can interfere with learning.  For children and adolescents, we may also speak directly with school staff and/or observe the child in his/her classroom.

Step 3- Report Feedback/Recommendations: 

We will review the results of the evaluation with the client (and parents). We will describe the tasks completed and your child’s individual performances.  We explain the diagnosis(es) completely and provide recommendations for intervention that will include suggestions for academic accommodations.  Clients (and parents) will be encouraged to ask questions and voice concerns to ensure a full understanding of the findings.  We will also provide a detailed, comprehensive written report that summarizes all of this information.