Neurodevelopmental Evaluations

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As a practice, we offer a comprehensive suite of psychological assessments designed for children, teens, and adults. Our assessments, which include cognitive ability testing, are personalized to meet individual needs and utilize the most current and updated tools, focusing on strengths. Each assessment is specifically crafted to answer the referral source's questions and is complemented by in-depth feedback sessions. During these sessions, we review the results and provide a detailed treatment plan that includes necessary recommendations and accommodations. 

Additionally, we provide neurodevelopment testing for individuals aged 4-17 years. For those 18 years and older, click here for information on neuropsychological testing.

A review of the presenting problem is essential for understanding why the individual seeks treatment or evaluation. Presenting problems may include challenges such as difficulty with attention, restlessness, hyperactivity, trouble falling and staying asleep, poor organizational skills, frequent forgetfulness, persistent sadness, daily anxiousness, difficulty letting go of things, and relational problems or poor social skills. Prior to the initial session, clients must complete an in-depth developmental history form to provide a general background on their symptoms.

The psychological interview. The initial session (1 hour) with the psychologist serves as an opportunity to get to know the client on a personal level. During this psychological assessment, current symptoms, their history, and developmental issues are discussed to construct an accurate understanding of the individual. Questions will probe areas related to family, social relationships, medical history, and work or school experiences.

Psychological testing related to the presenting problem. After gathering information from the developmental history form and the psychological interview, the psychologist will determine the appropriate cognitive ability testing and neurodevelopment testing required to gather specific data about the identified problem areas. Psychological tests consist of responding to specific questions using standardized instruments. These tests may assess mood, personality, aptitude, pathology, skill, intelligence, or cognitive ability. Assessments are administered in person by a testing technician, along with several assessments sent via email to parents, relatives, and/or teachers. Testing sessions vary in length depending on the client's age, typically lasting between 1-3 hours and employing various testing methods such as paper and pencil, iPads, and laptops.

A summary of results and a feedback session. Following the completion of testing and the collection of all assessment measures, the psychologist synthesizes the information from the interview and testing to form a clinical picture of the client and generate appropriate diagnoses.

Common diagnoses can include: Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Sensory Processing Disorder, Specific Learning Disorders in Reading, Writing, or Mathematics, Dyslexia and Dysgraphia, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Major Depressive Disorder, Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia), Personality Disorders, Developmental Coordination Disorder, Language and Communication Disorders, Non-Verbal Learning Disorder, Intellectual Disability (and Borderline Intellectual Functioning), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Bipolar Disorder (I and II), Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Conduct Disorder, and Schizophrenia.

After discussing the information with the client, the psychologist will recommend interventions to address the identified issues from the assessment. These treatment interventions are typically supported by research and clinical practice and effectively address the problems identified. The psychologist may refer the client to other resources or providers for the recommended interventions. For instance, if bipolar disorder is diagnosed, the psychologist may refer the patient for a medication consultation with a psychiatrist. In some cases, the psychologist may directly provide treatment interventions, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, for clients diagnosed with depression or anxiety.

Comprehensive Report. Lastly, a complete extensive psychological assessment report will be provided, containing the five essential components mentioned above. This report can be used for obtaining necessary services based on specific diagnoses, collaborating with teachers and schools regarding attention or learning concerns (typically through an IEP or 504 plan), enhancing clarity and accuracy among multiple healthcare professionals (such as the psychologist and psychiatrist), and for tracking symptoms over time.

The initial intake session for assessment services, including cognitive ability testing and neurodevelopment testing, is $250. After this initial session, a financial contract will be provided for the client’s approval, detailing the cost of psychological assessments and other services. This contract will include an estimated amount that the client’s insurance will cover, along with the remaining out-of-pocket expense for which the client will be responsible. Once both parties sign the contract, the client can schedule testing with our receptionist.

Genesis Clinical Services is in-network with Blue Cross Blue Shield and Aetna for these testing services. We also assist with the preauthorization of insurance coverage for assessments. If the assessment is conducted out of network, we will provide a superbill of charges for you to submit to your insurance company for reimbursement.