Psychological Evaluations
A Neuroaffirming Approach to Psychological Testing
A neuroaffirming approach to psychological evaluations is important because it is strength-based. It helps an individual and their family explore when and where they thrive, and how to build on that. It also identifies which situations are likely most challenging and what adjustments can be made to support that particular brain. It also provides a starting point for building skills and strategies to remain authentic while adapting to reduce distress and promote confidence and emotional regulation.
Psychologist Stephen Finn describes psychological tests as powerful “empathy magnifiers” that allow us to better understand and appreciate others’ lived experiences. Testing can help individuals and families reframe their narrative with greater compassion, insight and autonomy.
Why We Believe Evaluations are Vital
Psychological Evaluations are utilized to get a precise picture of a child’s profile. They incorporate the results of various tests to gain information about how an individual’s brain processes information, and provides information about the individual’s strengths and potential challenges.
For children who are neurodivergent, a greater understanding of their unique strengths, challenges, and underlying needs is critical to academic success, empowerment and a stronger self of self.
As therapists, we have witnessed major, positive changes in children once they understand how their brain works, that it may work differently than their peers or parents, and there is nothing “wrong” with them. Children often feel shame because of their perceived differences and want to know why they feel the way they do, why they act the way they do, and why they struggle in certain areas when their peers don’t.
As Therapists
As a parent, when you understand that certain behaviors and responses can be explained by a child’s neurodiversity or learning abilities, a shift can happen in how behavior is approached, and this shift can be the key to repairing relationships and decreasing stress, and improving family life as a whole.
As Parents
Evaluation Benefits At A Glance
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Understanding
Move beyond labels with an understanding of Neurodiversity.
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Identifying strengths is a game-changer for Neurodivergent kids who are used to people focusing on their deficits.
Strengths
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Support
Find individualized support tailored to your child’s needs.
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Insights can help educators create a supportive learning environment with less anxiety.
Academic Success
5
An accurate diagnosis will help professionals provide appropriate support.
Accurate Diagnosis
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Foster a positive sense of self based on their strengths and an acceptance their unique characteristics.
Empowerment
Success Stories
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Adult Diagnosed with Au-DHD
Getting a neuropsychological evaluation was life-changing—it gave me the self-understanding I had been searching for my entire life. I had always sensed that life felt more difficult for me than it did for my peers, but receiving an AuDHD diagnosis finally allowed me to extend compassion to both myself and the neurodivergent children in my life. Although I was initially hesitant to pursue a diagnosis, it ultimately helped replace the negative labels I had internalized growing up. I strongly encourage anyone who suspects they or their child might be neurodivergent to consider an evaluation—it's an empowering step toward embracing your authentic self.”
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Parent of a Child with ADHD
The information I learned from my son's evaluation honestly changed my parenting. Learning how his brain operates differently from mine helped me understand him and his behavior in a way that was a game-changer for our family."
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Parent of a Child with Autism
Getting an Autism diagnosis for my son through an evaluation was a huge relief. After years of telling professionals he was Autistic, years of trying to get accommodations at school, I felt like my son had finally been seen and understood and as a family, we could help him get the services that would help him be the best version of himself.
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Parent of a Child with ADHD
We worked with Melissa Krulik and she did an amazing job. She helped us work with the teachers and the school and made the process so easy. It made such a difference for our daughter and we were able to get her the accommodations we needed to really help her thrive. At first I didn't understand why an evaluation would make a difference because we just thought she needed to try harder. Understanding that she had ADHD, and the ways it made it so difficult for her to keep track of her work, organize her time, and follow through was so eye opening. It was such a weight lifted for her and for us to understand what we needed to do and what would help our daughter adjust to high school and thrive. I'm so glad we pursued it and wish we had done it sooner.
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The first appointment is an intake interview, which typically includes a discussion with the parent(s) and child (if appropriate) or adolescent, to learn more about the current concerns and difficulties. This also includes gathering history and information about family life and school functioning and, to review the findings from a background questionnaire completed in advance.
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Information from this meeting helps with the final selection of measures for testing. At this first meeting, you may be asked to provide additional records such as report cards and prior testing reports, and your written authorization to provide permission to communicate with other professionals involved in your child’s care.
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The testing session(s) are usually scheduled in 1 or 2 blocks of time, either on the same or separate days. Following the final session, after all supporting data and reports have been received, a feedback meeting is scheduled for parents. This typically occurs 4 to 5 weeks later and this is a time to review the test results and provide recommendations for your child or adolescent. At this time, you will be provided with a comprehensive written report of the evaluation.
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After the written report has been prepared and shared, the usual next step is to share the report with other involved professionals. This includes, but is not limited to the school team, pediatrician and other medical professionals. On many occasions, parents set up a meeting at the school to review recommendations and determine if or how additional supports can be put in place.