Learning Disabilities & ADHD – Lighthouse Psychological Services PLLC

Assessment for Learning or Attention Problems

Problems with attention/concentration are some of the most pervasive, but least specific complaints in psychology. That is, these problems can arise for extremely different reasons. For example, attention problems can be caused by a lack of sleep, head injuries, neurological diseases, depression, anxiety, ADHD, or even just individual differences in cognitive abilities. Therefore, it is extremely important to identify the specific causes of the attention problems because each of these conditions will have a vastly different treatment plan.

See below for a description of the assessment process or download the PDF here.

Quick tip: on a Mac you can have your computer read it to you. Select the text you want read, then go to Edit, Speech, Start Speaking.

Assessment Process

Diagnostic Interview: This is a 55 minute appointment where we can identify the presenting concerns and some important history. For young children, I prefer to gather the bulk of the history without them present so that parents can talk freely about their concerns without upsetting the kids. I will also spend some one-on-one time with kids to help establish some rapport and get to know them. For teenagers, I will gather the history from them and their parents. For adults, if you prefer to have a spouse, relative, or close friend to help provide details of current or past functioning, they are welcome to participate in the diagnostic interview. It is also helpful to bring any previous records that might be relevant.

Questionnaires: The next step involves completing personality questionnaires or behavior checklists, which help to gather structured information about a range of difficulties. Some of these are completed in the office whereas others may be sent home with you.

Testing: The appointment for the cognitive and academic testing will then be scheduled. This testing helps to identify strengths and weaknesses in the areas of intelligence, learning/memory, specific academic abilities, and attention. Generally, these appointments are scheduled for 4 hours at a time. Depending on the specific nature of the assessment, we may schedule testing over 2 sessions and the time required will vary. Testing appointments are scheduled with a technician, who is an assistant working under my supervision. The technician is trained to administer and score the psychological tests. The testing is best described as similar to school-based activities, such as solving problems, providing answers to questions, and learning new information. The important thing to remember is to try your best so we have valid and reliable information about your abilities. Parents of children are welcome to wait in the waiting room or stay close by the office during the testing, but cannot be in the room during the testing.

Results: This is a 45-55 minute appointment where we review the results of the assessment. I will review the test results, diagnosis, and treatment recommendations with you. This is an opportunity to ask questions and have a discussion. Often there is some additional information I will gather at this appointment.

Report: You will also be provided a copy of the report, which includes information about your history, test results, diagnosis, and recommendations. The purpose of the report is to provide you with an understanding of the assessment and to communicate the results other professionals, such as physicians, psychologists, or schools.

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FAQ’s for Assessment

Do you do testing for accommodations for GRE, SAT, LSAT, MCAT, or other exams?

Yes. My evaluation process meets the standards requested by the testing agencies. If there is a test not listed here, I can likely adjust the report writing or testing to meet the requirements. Please just send that information to me.

Do you provide a diagnosis?

Yes. I can never guarantee a specific diagnosis, but will work to consider all possibilities and provide the most appropriate diagnosis based up on the data gathered from the evaluation.

Does insurance cover testing?

Sometimes. I can never be sure how insurance companies will process the testing. See the Insurance and Fees section for some helpful questions to ask your insurance company.

How long does the whole process take?

That depends on the type of evaluation. Generally from start to finish is about 3 weeks.

What do I need for my first appointment?

It’s helpful to bring any records that are relevant to the evaluation, which may include previous evaluation reports, school records, or medical records.

Please also bring the completed office paperwork, including the Registration Form, Consent Form, and the Authorization for Release of Information (if I’ll need to share information with someone).

Insurance card (if applicable).

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