About Our Clinical Assessments
ADD/ADHD
Psychoeducational & behavioral
ADD/ADHD
Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
ASD
Psychoeducational & behavioral
ADD/ADHD
Autism Spectrum Disorder
Psychoeducational
Psychoeducational & behavioral
Psychoeducational & behavioral
Comprehensive Assessment
Psychoeducational & behavioral
Psychoeducational & behavioral
Psychoeducational & behavioral
Comprehensive Assessment with Behavioral Evaluation
Providing Comprehensive Evaluations
ADD/ADHD
An ADHD evaluation is a structured process used to determine whether an individual meets the criteria for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. It looks at symptoms, their impact on daily functioning, and rules out other possible causes. The purpose of this assessment is to confirm or rule out ADHD, understand how symptoms affect academics and/or work as well as social functioning, and identify co-occurring conditions (e.g., anxiety, depression).
The clinical evaluation includes the following core components:
- Clinical Interview
- Covers developmental, medical, educational, and family history.
- Discusses current symptoms and their onset.
- Symptom Assessment
- Uses standardized and empirically tested assessment measures.
- Collects input from multiple sources (self-report, parents, teachers).
- Behavioral Observation
- Observes attention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity during tasks or sessions.
- Cognitive Testing
- Assesses executive functioning, working memory, and processing speed.
- Often includes IQ testing and academic achievement tests if learning issues are suspected.
- Screening for Other Conditions
- Evaluates emotional, behavioral, and medical factors that may mimic ADHD symptoms.
- Collateral Information
- School reports, work performance reviews, or prior evaluations.
Results include the following components:
- A diagnostic determination based on DSM-5 criteria.
- Recommendations for treatment (behavioral strategies, therapy, medication).
- Educational or workplace accommodations if needed.
Autism Spectrum disorder
An autism evaluation is a structured, multi-step process used to determine whether an individual (child or adult) meets criteria for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and to understand their strengths and challenges.
The clinical evaluation includes the following core components:
- Comprehensive Developmental History
- Collects information about early development, medical history, family background, and social functioning.
- Often involves interviews with parents or caregivers.
- Clinical Interviews
- Conducted with the individual and caregivers.
- Focuses on communication, social interaction, behaviors, and sensory experiences.
- Standardized Diagnostic Tools
Common instruments include:
- ADOS-2 (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule): A structured, play-based or conversational assessment that observes social and communication behaviors.
- ADI-R (Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised): A detailed caregiver interview about developmental history and current behaviors.
- Cognitive and Developmental Testing
- Measures intellectual functioning (IQ), problem-solving, and adaptive skills.
- Helps differentiate autism from other developmental or learning disorders.
- Language and Communication Assessment
- Evaluates expressive and receptive language skills.
- May include pragmatic language (social use of language).
- Behavioral and Emotional Assessment
- Screens for co-occurring conditions like ADHD, anxiety, or depression.
- Uses rating scales and questionnaires completed by caregivers and teachers.
- Observations Across Settings
- Observes the individual in natural environments (home, school) when possible.
- Provides insight into real-world social and behavioral functioning.
- Sensory Profile
- Assesses sensitivities or preferences related to sensory input (sound, touch, movement).
Results include the following components:
- A detailed report summarizing findings, diagnostic impressions, and recommendations.
- Includes individualized supports, therapy options, and educational accommodations.
Psychoeducational Evaluations
A psychoeducational evaluation is a comprehensive assessment designed to understand an individual’s cognitive, academic, and emotional functioning, typically within the context of learning and school performance. It is often used for children, adolescents, and/or adults who may be experiencing difficulties in learning, attention, or behavior.
The purpose of psychoeducational evaluations includes identifying learning disabilities (e.g., dyslexia, dyscalculia), assess intellectual abilities and academic achievement, explore attention-related issues (like ADHD), understand emotional or behavioral factors impacting learning, provide recommendations for educational planning and accommodations.
The core components to the evaluation process include:
- Background Information
Includes developmental, medical, educational, and family history.
- Cognitive Testing
Measures intellectual functioning (IQ), memory, processing speed, and problem-solving skills.
- Academic Achievement Testing
Evaluates reading, writing, math, and sometimes oral language skills.
- Behavioral and Emotional Assessment***
Uses questionnaires, interviews, and observations to assess emotional well-being and social functioning. A more thorough behavioral assessment can be added for a fully comprehensive psychoeducational evaluation with a behavioral component.
- Attention and Executive Functioning
Tests for focus, organization, and self-regulation skills.
Results include the following components:
- A detailed report summarizing strengths, weaknesses, and recommendations.
- Guidance for interventions, accommodations (like IEP or 504 plans), and sometimes referrals for therapy or specialized instruction.