Are you considering an assessment but unsure which one suits your needs? Our quick guide is here to help you understand the different types of assessments and who they benefit. Whether you’re a parent or an adult seeking clarity, this guide will provide a starting point.
Psychoeducational and Neuropsychological Testing
What is it?
- Individually tailored assessment to evaluate cognitive abilities (i.e., IQ, Executive Functioning, Language, Memory), academic skills, and/or emotional and behavioral functioning.
- It often identifies learning difficulties (e.g., dyslexia, dyscalculia), attention difficulties (ADHD), and emotional challenges (e.g., anxiety, depression).
Who is it for?
- Parents concerned about their child’s learning progress, academic struggles, or to uncover emotional/behavioral issues affecting their child.
- Adults seeking to understand personal cognitive strengths and weaknesses or a broad understanding of their psychological well-being.
When is it helpful?
- If your child is falling behind in school.
- When you need to develop an individualized education plan (IEP) or 504.
- To identify specific learning disabilities.
- To guide psychiatry, therapy, or counseling plans.
- When a more holistic view of mental health is needed.
Autism Spectrum Disorder Testing
What is it?
- Comprehensive testing using evidence-based diagnostic tools for autism, including the ADOS-2 and MIGDAS-2.
- In addition to assessing for autism and socio-emotional functioning, we will create an individually tailored assessment that can also evaluate cognitive abilities (i.e., IQ, Executive Functioning, Language, Memory) and/or academic skills.
Who is it for?
- Parents looking to uncover potential emotional or behavioral issues affecting their child.
- Adults seeking a broad understanding of their psychological well-being.
When is it helpful?
- When you notice significant behavioral changes or emotional distress.
- When Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is suspected.
- To guide therapy or counseling plans.
- When a more holistic view of mental health is needed.
Cognitive/Admissions Assessment
What is it?
A cognitive or admissions assessment focuses on measuring intellectual abilities and is often used for school admissions or placement tests.
Who is it for?
- Parents preparing their child for private school or gifted program entry.
- Adults needing evaluation for academic or professional reasons.
When is it helpful?
- Prior to applying for a specialized educational program.
- To assess eligibility for gifted and talented opportunities.
- When cognitive strengths need to be formally documented.
