PSYCHOLOGICAL TESTING
Why might a child need an evaluation?
To gain a better understanding of their:
General cognitive abilities
Present level of academic achievement
Current psychological functioning
Areas of strength and weakness
To understand the causes of difficulties with schoolwork
To obtain accurate diagnoses
To determine an appropriate course of treatment
To receive services at school
Common referral questions for psychological testing might include (but are not limited to):
Does my child have:
ADHD?
A learning disability?
Conduct disorder or other behavioral problems?
An anxiety disorder?
Depression?
Impaired executive functions?
Does my child need:
Accommodations and/or modifications within the school environment?
An Individualized Education Program (IEP) or 504 Plan?
Tutoring or other cognitive remediation services outside of school?
Psychotherapy?
Social skills training?
A medication consult?
What might be assessed in a comprehensive evaluation?
General cognitive functioning
Verbal abilities
Nonverbal abilities(e.g. visual-spatial skills)
Fluid reasoning skills
Academic achievement
Language skills
Information-processing abilities
Attention and concentration
Executive functions
Processing speed and efficiency
Visual-motor skills
Memory
Personality structure
Psychological symptoms
What types of treatment or intervention might be recommended after reviewing the results?
Accommodations, modifications or other additional services within the school environment
Tutoring outside of school (e.g. cognitive remediation)
Study skills training
Educational consultation (to explore alternate academic options)
Individual psychotherapy
Group psychotherapy
Social skills training
Psychiatric consultation
Medical consultation