Now that school is back in session and children are beginning to acclimate to the structure of the academic environment, school age children may begin to display behavioral issues in school. The behaviors are often reported to parents as their child is being off-task, not listening, not on academic level, or disrupting the classroom. As a result, many parents are being told that their child would benefit from a psychological evaluation. Parents may be confused and unsure as to what that means, what that entails, and where to even look to start that process.
What is a psychological evaluation?
A psychological evaluation is typically requested to better understand a presenting issue, answer questions related to the issue, and to provide potential recommendations to address the problem. Many common questions that are asked regarding school age children are, “Does my child have Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)?” or “Is there a learning disorder?” Once a specific question has been identified, it will help guide direction for appropriate services.
Where to look?
Parents are often unsure as to where to find a qualified professional to conduct an evaluation and may seek advice or a referral from their local pediatrician. The pediatrician may have appropriate referral sources in the community, or the parent can search online for a local psychologist.
If you are looking to utilize insurance, you can contact your insurance provider and ask for a list of approved providers in your area. However, it is important to understand that some types of testing may not be covered by insurance, and it can be an out-of-pocket cost. While parents want to obtain a good deal, do not trade price for quality.
Psychological evaluations are most often conducted by a Clinical Psychologist, as a psychologist has extensive training in the administration and interpretation of standardized testing.
Once you have identified professionals to contact, feel free to shop around. Ask about the clinician’s experience, qualifications, and ability to adequately perform testing. If you are going to invest in this process, as a parent, you want to make sure you are getting a quality product.
What to expect
It is common for parents or the caregivers to meet with the psychologist first, independently of the child, to discuss background information and the presenting concerns. The psychologist will often ask questions that assist in better understanding your child. At that time, the determination of which testing will be conducted is decided, and what additional information may be needed. Since the issues being explored involve the school, parents should expect the clinician to seek collateral information from teachers as well.
What should I tell my child about testing?
Many parents are unsure as to what their child may experience with psychological testing, and do not know what to say. Telling your child that they will be meeting with a professional to discuss their personal strengths and areas for improvement is appropriate. Letting the child know that they will be engaging in talk and tasks that help the clinician get to know them will also put the child at ease. Once the psychologist meets with the child, they will explain the purpose as well to ease any anticipatory anxiety.
Depending on the type of assessment being requested, your child may be engaged with the clinician for several hours. It can be helpful to bring a drink &/or snack in the event the evaluation is lengthy.
My child is done testing, what happens next and what do I do with it?
Once testing is completed, the clinician will write a thorough report explaining the results of the assessment. Some clinicians will meet with the parents or caregivers to review the results and offer the them the opportunity to ask questions. Based upon the findings, the clinician will offer recommendations that will be beneficial to addressing any concerns and provide appropriate referrals that may be necessary. Depending on the type of assessment, the parents may wish to share the results with other parties, such as the school, caregivers, and pediatrician, etc..
If you are asked to seek out a psychological evaluation for your child, don’t hesitate to ask questions and become informed. The more you know the more you can assist your child moving forward.