What is a psychological assessment?

Psychological assessment refers to the battery of tests administered to evaluate intellectual, learning, emotional and/or behavioral functioning. The test battery varies depending upon the referral questions (s), and can include a structured interview, assessment of intellectual capacity, learning/processing measures, measures of attention and memory, academic achievement measures, projective measures, self-report surveys, parent and third party checklists, and possibly in vivo observations. One or two testing sessions may be scheduled, depending on the number of tests/measures being given. We will be happy to answer any questions that you may have regarding specific names of tests that will be administered during testing.

 

How much will the assessment cost? 

The psychological assessment process involves administration, scoring, and interpretation of tests. It also requires the psychologist to prepare a written report and meet to review the results. The cost of a full assessment is determined by the total number number of hours required by the psychologist to complete the full evaluation process from testing time to results review session, at the rate of $175/hour. An assessment can range from $750 to $3000. A partial payment is usually required on the day of testing, with the balance due at the follow-up appointment. Payments can be made by cash, check, or credit card.

 

Is the cost covered by insurance? 

Many insurance companies doe not cover psychological testing, and those who do will typically only reimburse a portion of the costs. It is your responsibility to contact your insurance company to determine benefits. A list of tests to be administered can be provided, if requested by your insurance company. When you call them, ask the following:

• Is the cost of psychological testing covered?

• Is there a deductible? 

• What portion will be reimbursed?

• Is a referral needed from a primary care physician?

• Is pre-authorization required?
   

How long does it normally take?

A battery of assessments that include the above-mentioned measures typically takes 2-4 hours. It may be necessary for additional hours.

​

What does the process look like?

First, an intake appointment is scheduled (either as an in-office visit or over the phone) where the referral question/presenting problem is discussed and I offer my opinion on what tests I would recommend. From there, the testing sessions are scheduled and the individual (or parent) will be provided with paperwork to complete. Once all tests are complete, they are scored and a report is written. The report contains all of the individual test results, a summary, a conceptualization of the problem, and a list of recommendations. The report can take anywhere from 2-6 weeks (unless there is a rush service requested). Once the report is finalized a session is scheduled to go over the results and provide the individual (or parent) with the final printed and signed report. You may be asked to sign a release so that the report can be sent directly to specific professionals working with you.

​

What should I remember about the appointment? 

Preparing for testing will minimize anxiety and stress. Before the day of testing, it is helpful to remind yourself what the day will look like. Try to avoid calling it "testing," as this word itself can often make people unnecessarily anxious. Remember that the tasks are completed on your own or with the psychologist. Remember that people learn in different ways and that the tasks will help you understand how you learn best. The day will include a variety of questions, puzzles, drawings, and stories as well as some school-like tasks like reading and math. While you may be challenged, you will probably have fun with some of the tasks. On the day of the assessment, make sure you are well rested and have eaten. Feel free to bring along any snacks and drinks you may like. Arrive a few minutes early before your scheduled time to become familiar with the psychologist and to get settled before starting. To avoid fatigue, breaks will be taken during the tasks to allow you to use the restroom and have a drink or snack.

​

The following represents the types of assessments that are available:

• Targeted ADHD Assessment

• ADHD Screening/Diagnostic Update

• Psychoeducational Assessment

• Comprehensive Psychological Assessment

• Individually Administered Personality Tests

• Forensic Psychological Assessment

• Pre-Surgery Psychological Evaluation

Children are typically referred for an assessment by their parents, pediatrician, or school for evaluation of:

• Academic Readiness

• Attention Deficit Disorder - with or without hyperactivity

• Autism Spectrum Disorders

• Disruptive Behavior Disorders

• Emotional Disturbances - depression, anxiety, mood disorders

• Giftedness

• Learning Disabilities

• Learning/Processing Problems

• Parent-Child Relational Problems

• Psychological Factor Associated with Medical Conditions

• Social Problems