PSYCHO-EDUCATIONAL ASSESSMENTS.

COMPREHENSIVE PSYCHO-EDUCATIONAL Testing

This type of evaluation is often conducted when concern arises regarding an individual’s learning. Assessments include cognitive areas (including intellectual ability, I.Q., memory, executive function) and a variety of academic achievements. By comparing cognitive potential to actual academic output (among other methods of analysis), information is gained regarding any learning disabilities (barriers, differences). This procedure is often used for understanding learning differences such as:

  • ADHD/ADD (executive functioning, impulsivity, attentional, and/ or memory difficulties)

  • Dyslexia (reading disability), Dysgraphia (writing), Dyscalculia (math).

  • giftedness

…as well as general preferences (i.e., strengths and weaknesses), which assists in seeking and providing an academic setting that best fits an individual's needs. If indicated, a diagnosis is provided along with accommodations to help support academic success.

This type of assessment can be conducted for individuals across the age range.

ADHD assessments are almost always paired with general psycho-educational assessments due to the comorbidity of the concerns involved. Attentional issues can affect learning capability and vice versa, executive functioning delays can cause lack of achievement, and memory issues can affect comprehension.

The following visual is a representation of how comprehensive psycho-educational assessment plans are tailored to each individual (at the time of the initial appointment):

Birch Psychology can provide the above assessment services in collaboration with an educational consultant to help facilitate the process of school placement and/or accommodations through advocacy and consultation. Learn more

INTELLECTUAL ABILITIES ASSESSMENTS (IQ ONLY)

WISC, WPPSI, WAIS

By assessing cognitive abilities (I.Q.), this type of assessment is often used for a school’s admission process when considering a child as a potential fit for a program or specialty school (e.g., Gifted, or Highly Gifted & Talented). This single assessment can also be conducted to provide a general understanding of how a child or adult processes and reasons with information.

IQ AND ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT

WISC, WPPSI, WAIS & WIAT

This type of evaluation utilizes the foundation of a comprehensive psycho-educational assessment to provide a brief overview of “learning style”. This includes measurement of intellectual abilities (including processing speed) and overall academic achievement. This can involve the two tests only or a clinical interview and feedback added for added discussion, background analysis, and recommendations.

These assessments are used to provide an understanding of learning (including intellectual ability), as it applies to school, home or work environments.  

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