Comprehensive Psychological Evaluation

The Comprehensive Psychological Evaluation is an in-depth assessment designed to explore cognitive, emotional, behavioral, and academic functioning. This evaluation begins with a 1-hour intake appointment, where background information is gathered and concerns are discussed in detail. The testing phase includes two testing sessions, each lasting approximately three hours, during which a variety of standardized psychological tests and rating scales are administered based on the referral questions. After testing is complete, a 1-hour results appointment is scheduled to review findings, diagnoses (if applicable), and personalized recommendations. A detailed written report summarizing the results and next steps is provided following the feedback session. This type of evaluation is ideal for diagnostic clarification, educational planning, treatment recommendations, and accommodations.

The Intake Appointment

Our first appointment together is called an Intake. The purpose of the Intake is to collect background information about the client and to discuss the reasons they are seeking testing. For clients under the age of 18, this appointment is for guardians only. If the client is an older teen, they may participate in their own Intake if their guardian deems it appropriate and gives permission. The questions asked by the examiner are personal and private, covering many areas of daily living and development. Candid responses are needed to best assess the needs of the client. Use discretion when bringing an older teen under the age of 18. Please leave young children at home for this appointment. Clients 18 and older are welcome to bring their guardian to this initial appointment to help provide information and answer questions. The testing process will be explained during this appointment. No testing is conducted during the Intake. If the client decides to proceed with the testing process, testing will be scheduled at this appointment with the examiner. Intake appointments are about 1 hour or less in duration.

The Testing Appointments

The terms 'testing', 'assessment', and 'evaluation' are used synonymously by others and have the same meaning here. They are sometimes preceded by the terms: mental health, psychological, and behavioral, or by a specific diagnosis (ADHD, Autism, Learning Disability, etc.) The evaluation is comprehensive and seeks to confirm, rule out, or identify a particular diagnosis or disorder, as well as identify the client’s strengths and weaknesses across many areas of functioning. Clients may have a specific reason that brought them to seek testing, and some may be more uncertain and are in the process of gathering information about themselves. Some seek testing independently and some may have been referred by another professional, doctor, school, clinic, or organization. Testing is conducted one-on-one in the examiner’s office. Clients will attend two testing sessions, each lasting 3 hours. The sessions will be scheduled on separate days, usually a week apart. Clients are welcome to bring snacks and drinks. The examiner will also provide bottled water and have snacks available. Many breaks will be given. Guardians are welcome to wait in the lobby during the entirety of the testing or leave and come back. During breaks, children can check in and briefly visit with their guardian. Please return around 15 minutes prior to the scheduled end of testing sessions to be ready to pick up the client.

The Results Appointment

During the results appointment, clients will receive a written report of the test results, test scores, and the examiner’s interpretation and recommendations. Any diagnosis(es) assigned will be noted in the report. There are times when no diagnosis is warranted. Results will be explained by the examiner, and an electronic copy will be made available. Older teens can attend the follow-up/results appointment if deemed appropriate by guardians. Again, this is a very personal document containing private and revealing information. Please use discretion. Clients 18 and older are welcome to bring a guardian, spouse, or partner to this appointment if desired. This appointment is 1 hour or less in duration.

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