Assessments
Every child learns at their own pace. As a licensed educational psychologist, I understand that families seek private evaluations for a variety of reasons, often driven by a desire to gain a deeper understanding of their child.
Unfortunately, it can be defeating when your child is struggling. While it is natural to want your child to succeed, it is crucial to approach the situation with patience and understanding. Children with unique learning profiles or neurodivergent learners may struggle with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Intellectual Disability (ID), or learning disabilities such as dyslexia, dyscalculia, or dysgraphia. Assessments can provide the insight needed to know where there are strengths, where to target interventions for areas of need, and help your understand your child’s unique was of learning.
A private evaluation can provide valuable insights into a child's learning style, strengths, and areas for growth, which may not be fully captured within the school system. Parents may request an evaluation for diagnostic purposes to identify potential learning disabilities, ADHD, or other neurodevelopmental conditions. Additionally, some parents seek an IQ assessment to better understand their child's intellectual abilities, which can inform educational planning. Ultimately, a private evaluation offers a comprehensive and personalized approach to understanding a child's individual needs, empowering families to advocate effectively for their child's success.
TYPES OF ASSESSMENTS
PRIVATE PSYCHO-EDUCATIONAL EVALUATIONS
Understand how your child processes information through an in-depth cognitive and academic evaluation revealing both their strengths and areas of need. This may also include evaluation of behavior concerns. Psycho-educational evaluations are comprehensive and provide the most information of your child’s learning profile.
DIAGNOSTIC EVALUATIONS OR IQ TESTING
(ADHD, Autism, Learning Disability, such as Dyslexia, Dysgraphia, Dyscalculia, or IQ testing)
Gain the clarity for your child’s behavioral needs or academic challenges by seeking a specific evaluation based on your area of concern.
INDEPENDENT EDUCATIONAL EVALUATIONS (IEE)
Families can request an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE) when they disagree with the school's assessment of their child, seek a second, unbiased opinion, or question the school's expertise. They may feel the school's evaluation was incomplete or biased, or they may desire a more comprehensive assessment to better understand their child's needs. An IEE provides stronger evidence for advocating for appropriate educational services and accommodations. Ultimately, parents pursue an IEE to ensure their child receives the most accurate and thorough evaluation possible, leading to effective support and educational planning.
Once an IEE is approved by the school district, families can choose their assessor, which also has to be approved by the school district. Independent Educational Evaluations are paid in full by the school district.
