Discovering Hope
Counseling and Psychological Services
The unexamined life is not worth living.
~Socrates
FAQ:
Psychological/Psychoeducational Testing
How is psychological testing/evaluations different than the assessments done by my therapist/psychiatrist?
Many mental health providers use clinical assessments, screeners, and questionnaires to assist with diagnosing and treatment planning. Sometimes, and for a variety of reasons, an individual may be referred for psychological/psychoeducational evaluations.
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These are conducted by a clinician with specialized education and training in administering, and interpreting specific and complex assessments. This type of testing is comprehensive in nature, and assesses an individual's emotional, behavioral, and cognitive functioning.
Why would I be need psychological/psychoeducational evaluations?
There are many reasons an individual may be referred for or choose to have a comprehensive evaluation. Some of those reasons (but not all) are listed here:
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Accurate diagnosis
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Learning/developmental delays and disabilities
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Cognitive impairment
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Academic, social, or behavioral problems
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Intellectual concerns/giftedness
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Individualized treatment planning
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How long will testing take?
Testing is a highly individualized process, which is reflected in the length of the testing process. Your clinician will review your specific needs/concerns/referral requirements and make a decision on your specific evaluation process.
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On average, the testing process will require 2-4 sessions each may be one to two hours. This will include the initial consultation and the feedback session (as appropriate). Your clinician will keep you informed throughout the process of specific expectations. ​
How soon will I receive results?
Results for full diagnostic evaluations or psychoeducational evaluations may take up to 4 weeks once the final testing session has been completed. Your clinician will keep you informed if there are any delays that arise.​
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If you have a specific deadline or need expedited results, please discuss this with your provider, prior to the initial testing session. We try our best to work with our clients needs and requirements, but do not guarantee a specific turnaround time frame.
How should I/my child prepare for a psychological assessment?
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​ ​There is no true preparation required for psychological testing. If there are any special considerations (i.e. taking your ADHD medications) prior to testing, your provider will discuss them with you. Otherwise, the best preparation is self-care. Get a good night's rest, eat breakfast, come in to your appointment rested and curious.
What if I need to cancel my appointment?
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​ ​The time for your testing appointment is reserved specifically for you. Each testing session typically requires 2 hours of time blocked off, which cannot be filled with inadequate notice.
We ask that you make every effort to keep your appointments and arrive on time. If you must cancel, or reschedule, you should inform our office as soon as you become aware of the need. Any appointment that is cancelled within a 24-hour window of the scheduled time will be subject to a late cancellation fee. Rescheduling will be handled on a case by case basis and any no-shows may not be contacted or rescheduled.
How much do psychological/ psychoeducational evaluations cost?
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​Due to the individualized process of psychological evaluations, prices may vary significantly depending on your specific evaluation needs, insurance coverage, and private pay options.
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​Your clinician will provide you with an estimated out of pocket expense based on your insurance coverage report and referral reason prior to your initial appointment. These prices may be subject to change due to actual insurance coverage and changes in the scope of services after the initial consultation.​
Does insurance cover testing?
​Some insurance plans cover many psychological evaluation services. Our staff will do our best to contact your insurance company in order to make sure that your specific evaluation services will be covered by your specific insurance plan. However, it is your responsibility to know your insurance coverage and benefits.
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Educational assessments are NOT covered by insurance. It does not matter which insurance provider you have, these assessments are considered elective and will be an additional fee even if insurance covers part of the diagnostic evaluation.
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Why is testing so expensive?
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​ ​Psychological testing is a specialized service. It requires
specific training, materials, and expertise. Testing protocols that are necessary for each specific assessment are also expensive. Additionally, for every hour spent testing face-to-face there are multiple additional hours for the psychologist to gather any additional data, score, interpret, write reports and follow up.
What payment types do you accept for evaluations?
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​ ​Payments may be made by cash, check (Made out to Discovering Hope Counseling and Psychological Services), debit/credit card, and flex spending/HSA cards.