What Makes Your Full Evaluations Different From Others?

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A parent asked me a couple of good questions which were, “Don’t psychologist all use the same tests?  What makes your testing different?”  There are a hundred plus psychological tests so psychologists don’t always use the same tests, nor should they.  An inexperienced psychologist will always use the same tests regardless of the issue but this often leaves parents wondering because the parents’ questions were not answered.

For each individual I work with I use a different set of tests that is individualized to make sure to answer the parent’s most important question(s).   Since I specialize in school neuropsychology, ADHD, and dyslexia, I can use tests that many school psychologists have not been trained to administer.   These tests provide greater information than the ‘average’  test.

My philosophy is to try and add value and knowledge to your situation by doing the best job I can.  One tidbit that sets me apart from most private practitioners is that, with your permission, I’ll talk to your child’s teacher on the phone to get his/ her perspective.  Most psychologists won’t do that because it takes them additional time and many believe time is money.   I’ve been a classroom teacher so I understand the importance of getting the teacher’s perspective.  After all, the teacher is spending considerable time with your child and the issue is usually occurring at school.  You don’t get the big picture without talking to the teacher.  I want the big picture of what the parent sees, teacher reports, my direct work with the child, and my intuition.  This way all bases are covered.   This is just one of the many ways my testing differs from others.  Call me and I’ll discuss more with you.

Does Insurance Cover Testing?

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I am an out-of-network provider so I don’t accept insurance.  However, I do provide you with an invoice that shows procedure codes and a diagnosis (if there is one).   Most of the time the insurance companies say testing is educational and not medical so they don’t cover it.  Some parents don’t want to use insurance even if they have it because they are concerned about a permanent record.  Additionally, I find their services too restrictive and not compatible with most people’s real needs.  Lastly, the amount of paperwork is excessive.

What is the evaluation process like?

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A psychoeducational evaluation is an investment in your child.  It is an evaluation process used to determine your child’s abilities and how he or she learns best.  Standard psychoeducational evaluations typically include a test of intelligence, information process testing, and achievement testing.  My evaluations go beyond basic and also include a measure of self-esteem, testing for dyslexia and, if the child is in middle or high school, often times learning strategies. 

Since I am a school neuropsychologist, I often use neuropsychological measures such as the NEPSY II or Delis- Kaplan Test of Executive Functioning.  The use of these tests depends on what questions parents want me to answer.

My evaluations are based on identifying strengths as well as areas of need.  I make sure the child knows his/her strengths.  This is important because by the time parents bring their child to me, the child may not feel good about school or themselves.  I want to change this perception.

Throughout my evaluations I gather information from parents, teachers, the child, and through my observations while working with him or her.  Once the evaluation process is complete, I meet with parents to discuss the results and recommendations as well as create an action plan of key steps to take.  My recommendations are based on quality, not quantity of recommendations provided.

I also follow up with parents long after the evaluation process to make sure the child is on the right track.

After the evaluation is complete, you’ll know your child’s abilities, academic levels, and how he/she processes information.  You’ll also know how they feel about themselves and school.  You’ll leave with answers to your questions!

Can Books Help Children?

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The motto of my practice is “Helping Parents Help Children.”  One way I believe parents can help their children is to increase our own knowledge about how kids think, feel, and act.  I want to share two books that my wife and I have found helpful in raising our son and daughter.  I think they can help you too.  One book is for fathers and the other is for moms.  Both are easily available online or in most bookstores because books help children.

One of my favorite books for dads is called “The Difference A Father Makes” by Ed McGlasson.  Ed is a former NFL star and played football for the Raiders.  His small book is a quick, but meaningful, read that helps fathers understand the importance of their power in preparing our children for life.  He shares personal examples of how he influenced his sons and daughters to become leaders in life.  This includes an awesome chapter called Rites of Passage that has information to give fathers the power to change his relationship with his son or daughter forever.

The book I recommend for moms is called “That’s My Son: How Moms Can Influence Boys to Become Men of Character” by Rick Johnson.  My wife found this book helpful because she grew up with two sisters and no brothers.  She did not have family experiences as a child learning what makes boys tick.  By reading Rick’s book she found a new understanding about our son.  The book is appropriate for single moms as well as married moms.  There are some interesting secrets in this book that Rick tells about the inner workings of boys.  He gives moms straightforward honest advice to help moms discuss communication, respect, and learning self discipline.

I believe books can be valuable tools in helping parents build stronger relationships with their children and these two books are a great starting point.  If your child struggles in school, dislikes school, is easily frustrated with homework, or has other school issues, consider getting him or her evaluated.  My evaluation process can help reveal the true issue so that you can begin the appropriate intervention instead of trying a hit and miss approach.  It’s an investment that can get your child on the right track.

Dr. Forgan is a Diplomate of the American Board of School Neuropsychology and certified dyslexia testing specialist who can evaluate your child for ADD/ADHD, giftedness, dyslexia, and other associated disorders.  Call 625-4125 to discuss your child.