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The purpose of a psychological evaluation is to address the specific area(s) of concern. Therefore, there is not a standard battery of tests used for every evaluation given. Instead, the evaluation will be tailored to address the specific concerns. Based on the area of concern(s), a variety of assessment instruments may be used to measure your child’s general intelligence; cognitive processing skills; individual academic achievement; emotional, social and/or behavior functioning; and/or self-concept measures. Additional information might be gathered including, but may not be limited to, developmental history, adaptive functioning rating scales, interviews and/or specific behavioral observations. Generally, assessment sessions can take 1-3 sessions depending on how much testing is needed and the age of the child. Each session can typically last from 2.5 to 3 hours.
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The evaluation process starts with an intake appointment, which is held with parents (or care providers) and/or with the individual being evaluated, if the student is 18 years or older. Sessions are approximately one hour (sometimes longer) in length where a detailed clinical interview is conducted to gain a thorough understanding of the child's current strengths and area(s) of concern. During this time, we will also discuss what the evaluation will entail, review policies and procedures, and answer your questions or address any concerns that you may have.
In advance of your appointment, please email (drwells@drwellspsych.com) or mail a copy of your child's most recent evaluations (through the school or other agencies/doctors), IEP, 504, and/or grades prior to your appointment. You can also bring copies along with you to your initial intake appointment.
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The next appointment involves testing. There can be 1-3 testing appointments depending on how much testing is required and the age of the child. Each testing session can last for approximately 2.5 to 3 hours. The sessions are typically conducted in the mornings. Parents and teachers are asked to complete rating scales to provide insightful about the child's behaviors.
The final appointment is scheduled once testing has been completed and outstanding documents have been received. Dr. Wells will score, interpret data, and write a written report. A feedback appointment is scheduled with the parents and sometimes the student, when appropriate, to review the results of the evaluation. This is typically completed approximately within two weeks after testing. This feedback appointment usually takes about 1.5 hours (and sometimes longer) to provide a detailed understanding of the results, review the recommendations and answer any questions. You will receive a copy of comprehensive written report.
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The testing appointments typically takes between 2.5-3 hours, depending on the amount of testing that needs to be completed and the age of your child. All testing is completed with Dr. Wells and your child. Parents will have access to a business lounge and internet if needed. In the office space, there is a small area where you are welcome to get water, warm drinks (e.g., coffee, tea, hot chocolate) for a fee, and a vending machine. There is also a cafe located in both buildings to make food purchases.
Testing is typically scheduled across two sessions to allow your child the opportunity to perform at their optimal level with maximum effort, and have time for brain breaks to rest and relax between tasks. This ensures that we are achieving the best and most accurate results.
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For younger children, let them know that they will be working with a "doctor for the brain" (not a medical doctor that gives shots). They will complete many activities/tasks to help understand how they learn the best.
For older children, you can explain that they are working with a psychologist that helps children with school, friends, and feelings. She will be figuring out how they learn best and getting a better understanding of their everyday experiences (e.g., learning about friendships, interests, and even what may cause stress or worries). You may tailor this to your child's unique experiences.
On the day of testing, try to make sure your child has had a good night's rest, healthy breakfast, and glasses (if needed), etc. If you child typically takes medication, make sure that they take their medication as prescribed prior to the appointment. Sometimes there are questions about certain medications that should or should not be taken prior to the evaluation, we can discuss those concerns on an individual basis.
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The entire process from the initial intake appointment to receiving results and a written report typically takes around 4-6 weeks. In some cases, teachers or parents take longer than expected to complete rating scales or issues arise in scheduling the feedback appointment. In these cases, it may take longer for the evaluation to be completed.
Expect around 2 weeks after all testing and rating scales are completed to receive a report.
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Depending upon your child's circumstances, the psychological evaluation report can be useful in many ways. Generally, it is recommended that the results are shared with your child's school to request for educational support and additional accommodations that are offered through special education services (e.g., IEP), 504 accommodation plans or by serving as a guide to establish a learning plan (e.g., Response to Intervention, private school settings, tutoring, etc.).
Others have shared the results with medical and/or mental health professionals to support treatment planning and/or medication decision making and management. The psychological evaluation report can also be used to help obtain accommodations for: college entrance exams (e.g., SAT or ACT), school-based standardized testing, and establishing college support through the Office of Students with Disability Services.
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