Adolescent and Young Adult

Adolescent and young adults are generally referred for testing by parents, school districts, pediatricians or specialized medical providers, and/or outpatient therapists.  There may be concerns about changes in academic performance, changes in behavior and emotional control, the effects of injury or illness, or a lack of improvement over a course of treatment, like psychotherapy.  

Evaluations help to differentiate what is expected and normal from what indicates a problem requiring intervention. Evaluations can be lengthy in this age range, and can range from (3-8 hours) to complete.  The evaluation begins with an interview with the patient and their parent/guardian.  Copies from prior psychological or neuropsychological evaluations, or relevant medical tests are requested for review in advance of the testing session.

The patient will engage in testing of all domains of cognition.  At the same time, their parent/guardian will complete questionnaires that provide further detailed information useful in honing diagnosis. By lunchtime, most of the cognitive portion of the assessment is completed, and afterwards, any remaining cognitive tests are finished.  They will generally finish the day by filling out questionnaires and participating in other tasks that yield information regarding their personality and emotional functioning.  

During a feedback session, results are shared in a conversational and developmentally appropriate manner. Ideally, both family and the patient are present for that session; when feasible, an outpatient therapist or other provider may also attend.  The report is completed  shortly after this session, and any new information that arose during feedback will be included in the final report.

Oftentimes, results from these evaluations significantly impacts a young person's academic life.  Attendance at a PPT or 504 meeting is included in the fee for the evaluation, if needed (virtual or in person).  This helps to ensure that stakeholders collaborate on intervention planning.