Through the use of psychological evaluations, one is able to gain an understanding of a child's cognitive, academic, social, emotional and behavioral functioning.  When testing, I utilize a multiple assessment approach, integrating data collected from various psychological testing instruments, as well as observations, and information provided by multiple informants, including parents and teachers. All evaluations are tailored to meet the individual needs of the child, so that results are able to provide answers to the specific referral questions.  Reports are written in language that is easy for parents/caregivers to understand, and feedback sessions are provided to explain results, make recommendations, and answer any questions. 

Parents or caregivers decide to have their children tested for a variety of reasons.  Psychological evaluations are useful to detect learning disabilities, by comparing a child's intellectual functioning with his or her level of academic achievement. Moreover, testing enables one to identify specific strengths and weaknesses in many areas that may be impacting on school performance.  Some examples are reading fluency, comprehension, computation skills, numerical reasoning, visual-motor skills, spatial organization, visual perception and information processing.

Tests of intellectual functioning and academic achievement may also be used to determine whether or not a child can be considered gifted.

In addition, psychological testing is utilized to detect any possible developmental delays by examining a child's abilities in areas such as self-help skills, communication, motor skills, and social skills. 

Behavioral and emotional disorders, such as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Anxiety Disorders, and Depression, may also be identified through the assessment process.  Projective techniques,standardized rating scales, observations and interviews are used to gain an understanding of current behavioral and emotional functioning, and assist in determining any appropriate DSM-IV diagnoses.

The following list provides examples of some of the instruments that may be used in an assessment battery.  However, tests administered are dependent on the reason for referral and the age of the child.

• Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children-Fourth Edition Integrated (WISC-IV)
• Woodcock Johnson III Tests of Achievement
• Gray Oral Reading Test Fourth Edition (GORT-4)
• Behavior Assessment System for Children - 2 (BASC)
• Conners ADHD/DSM-IV Scales
• Beery Buktenica Developmental Test of Visual Motor Integration
• Rorschach Psychodiagnostic Test
• Roberts Apperception Test

If you have any other questions regarding the assessment of your child, feel free to contact me.