EVALUATION SERVICES
Commonly Asked Questions
What types of evaluations do you offer, and how can they help?
We offer a wide range of assessments, designed to meet the individual needs of children and adults. They include academic, psychological, neuropsychological and developmental assessments for ages 18 months through adulthood. These tests are non-invasive in nature and are a combination of interview, questionnaire, and behavioral measures. The testing process provides valuable information about an individuals’ cognitive strengths and weaknesses, and under what conditions they can thrive. Assessments are often a vital component of treatment and educational planning. Families and individuals leave the testing experience with questions answered about possible diagnoses, and a better understanding of how to help their child or themselves.
In case you are still wondering what an assessment can offer you or your child, let us walk you through some common reasons people seek evaluation services. In the preschool years, parents come because they have concerns about their child's social or emotional development. Perhaps they have noticed differences between their child and peers, or gotten worrisome feedback about their child not meeting verbal milestones or displaying lack of social connectedness. Parents may wonder if Autism is affecting their child. Early identification of these diagnoses is important so early intervention can be started, which has been shown to significantly improve developmental outcomes for children. At the time of school entry, we help parents make the decision about school readiness based on their child's social, academic development. Another common scenario is when children start to struggle in school as the coursework gets harder, and parents and teachers feels they aren't learning at the rate they would expect for the child. In this case, evaluation for learning disabilities, including dyslexia, can provide the information teachers and parents need to best tailor the child's educational experience so they can thrive. Often, it is necessary to also rule out if ADHD or mood disorders (such as anxiety or depression) are present, as they can also account for academic struggle. Questions about possible giftedness are also a common reason for referral. We also help homeschool parents know if their children are meeting grade level expectations in their academics. For adolescents and young adults with a pre-existing diagnosis (e.g., Autism, ADHD, Learning Disability), sometimes an evaluation is needed when applying for accommodations on standardized exams (e.g., SAT, ACT, MCAT, LSAT, etc.), or academic supports at the college level. We have also worked with young adults who always suspected an ADHD or Autism diagnosis, and are seeking the evaluation now to get answers to their unanswered questions. Regardless of the reason for the testing, all of our evaluations culminate in a feedback session with our psychologist where you can ask questions, and recieve a comprehensive report that clearly explains all results. Individually tailored recommendations are also provided so that the client leaves the assessment experience with a clear understanding of how to best proceed to ensure that they thrive.
Who will do the evaluation?
At Strong Foundations, all of our evaluations are only completed by licensed and highly experienced psychologists. Dr. Tanya Banda and Dr. Lea LaPointe have extensive experience in providing evaluations. Dr. Banda has experience working with individuals as young at as 18 months old, through the young adult age. Dr. LaPointe focuses on assessments of teens and adults.
Will the results of the evaluation be shared?
By going privately through our practice, you are in control of who sees your results. Given the value of the information you will gain, families and individuals often ask that we communicate with other care providers (such a therapist or physician), schools and employers to explain the results and to inform what types of accommodations would be useful to the individual. Your preferences for this can be discussed during the feedback session.
What safety precautions are you taking during Covid?
Masks are worn by the examiner and patients during testing. Social distancing is also kept whenever possible. Our office is operating at reduced capacity to allow for more space, and doors are left open to improve air circulation. During testing, there is a plexiglass divider. All materials and surfaces are sanitized between each patient.
What is the process like and how long does it take?
Evaluations are typically completed over three to four appointments. The first appointment, which is done virtually, is an interview with parents to gather a full history and understanding of the concerns. The second appointment (and sometimes third) is in person testing with the patient and takes approximately three hours. Breaks are provided as needed. The final appointment, which is done virtually, is a feedback session in which results are explained, questions are answered, and recommendations are made. Reports are given to families in a timely manner after the last appointment. **Due to the confidential nature of our work, please secure a private space for your telehealth appointments.**
How much does testing cost?
Please see the Fees & Insurance section of our website for detailed prices.
I'm ready to get started. How do I schedule?
Please click on the "Wait List" button below to provide the information we need for scheduling. Since we are often scheduling a few months in advance, this will allow you to be added to our wait list. Our staff will reach out to confirm we received your information and to give you an estimate of when we can offer you an appointment. Many individuals and families elect to start therapy while they wait for testing to be completed. If you are also interested in therapy, please complete the "contact us" form on our home page.