Assessment Services
Neuropsychological Assessment
A comprehensive neuropsychological evaluation is a testing method used to gain data and information about a client’s cognitive, academic, linguistic, visual spatial, motor, attentional, executive functioning, memory, adaptive, and social cognition abilities, as well as social-emotional-behavioral-personality status. Standardized testing measures, along with qualitative information, are utilized to inform diagnosis, treatment planning, educational programming, and, at times, medical consultation. Neuropsychological assessment is recommended for diagnosing learning disabilities, attention disorders, executive functioning problems, language concerns, visual spatial processing difficulties, motor weaknesses, social problems, adaptive functioning issues, developmental delays and residual complexities, some genetic disorders, and mood/behavior/personality disorders.The testing process consists of a one-hour intake appointment; two to three testing sessions, typically encompassing eight to 12 hours of testing; and a two-hour feedback session to discuss results and recommendations. Following the assessment, VitalLife Psychology provides advocacy in public and private school settings to obtain required services and accommodations.
Psychoeducational Assessment
Psychoeducational assessment typically includes an Intellectual Functioning Test (IQ test) and academic testing in areas of reading, written language, and math. Supplemental measures in other cognitive domains such as language or attention may also be added. The psychoeducational evaluation is not as comprehensive as the neuropsychological assessment and is generally recommended for identifying learning disabilities. Appointments include a one-hour intake, one to two testing appointments (ranging from six to eight hours), and a two-hour feedback session to discuss results and recommendations. Post-assessment advocacy is also provided as needed.Other Assessments
In some cases, individuals are seeking to gain specific information about a concern, which can entail targeted attention and executive functioning testing or social-emotional-personality testing. Abbreviated assessments are often requested when there is a specific diagnostic question relating to attention, executive functioning, or mood/personality symptomology. There is a one-hour intake for targeted assessments. Remaining appointment times vary depending on the referral questions and are discussed at the intake appointment. A feedback session is also provided.Admissions Testing
Admissions testing is often requested by private schools and consists of an IQ measure and sometimes educational or achievement testing in reading, written language, and math. Appointment times typically range from one to four hours.See also Therapy Services.