Diagnostic Evaluations

Developing life skills so children can achieve meaningful independence and live a fuller life.

Diagnostic Testing

To help better understand your child’s needs, we facilitate objective, in-depth diagnostic services. Psychological and neuropsychological evaluations assess difficulties in the behavioral, emotional and social parts of a child’s life, and how a child learns and processes information, highlighting strengths and weaknesses in cognitive functioning.

PSYCHOLOGICAL AND NEUROPSYCHOLOGICAL EVALUATIONS CAN ASSESS?

  • Cognitive/intellectual functioning, including verbal and nonverbal skills, memory, and processing speed
  • Executive functioning
  • Basic daily living skills
  • Academic achievement
  • Behavioral/social and emotional functioning
Diagnostic Evalutions

What are psychological and neuropsychological evaluations?

Peach Tree Therapy Center works with neuropsychologists through an assessment process in order to diagnose and form treatment plans. These evaluations can be psychological or neuropsychological in nature.

Psychological evaluations generally refer to the battery of tests administered to evaluate intellectual, adaptive, academic, and emotional and/or behavioral functioning.

Although it is sometimes possible to complete the testing procedure in one sitting, it is common for evaluations to last 3 to 5 total hours across two or more sessions. Once testing is completed, the data will be analyzed and integrated into a written report. A session will then be held with you to discuss the results with our psychologist and receive a copy of the report. General turnaround time for completed reports is about 2-3 weeks, depending on the complexity of the evaluation. 

A more comprehensive assessment, neuropsychological evaluations examine how a child’s brain functions and how that functioning impacts the child’s behavior and learning. This can provide deeper insight into why children are having certain difficulties, what their learning strengths and weaknesses are, and what interventions can be used to address their difficulties. Since these assessments are broader in scope, they typically take longer to administer than psychological evaluations.

Psychological or neuropsychological testing does not guarantee that a client will have a diagnosis. There is also no guarantee that a client will qualify for special education and related services, which is the decision of the child’s school evaluation team.

What does an evaluation involve?

The evaluation process generally involves completion of a social-developmental history form, followed by an informational interview and the administration of one or more psychological tests and/or questionnaires. When indicated, evaluations may also consist of interviews with school personnel, physicians, or other individuals who can provide helpful information. You may also request to have our psychologist observe your child in the school setting, if applicable. Your written consent will be necessary to authorize these contacts. The components and order of assessment administration may vary based on the type of evaluation you are seeking.

Our science-backed, compassionate approach to ABA also includes the expertise of our in-house occupational therapists and Speech Pathologists, for an integrated and comprehensive program that serves children needing an individualized approach.

A psychologist licensed in Montana with the following qualifications:

  • A doctoral degree in psychology obtained from an institution accredited by the American Psychological Association
  • Two years (at least 3200 hours) of supervised field experience under the direction of licensed psychologist supervisors
  • Recent examples of psychological evaluation reports for analytical review by the Montana Board of Psychologists
  • A comprehensive application approved by the Montana Board of Psychologists
  • A computerized national examination specific to competency in psychological practice
  • An oral examination administered by the Montana Board of Psychologists, also focusing on the applicant’s competency in ethics and psychological practice

Navigating the Insurance Process

An effective approach to helping children with diverse abilities and autism thrive, ABA is the only therapy currently approved by health insurance providers. Peach Tree believes ABA should be available to everyone in need. We are here to help parents understand and navigate the insurance process.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of Diagnostic Evaluations?

The primary benefits of psychological evaluation include diagnostic clarification, appropriate treatment recommendations, a written report to facilitate services in the community and/or at school, and insight into the nature of your child’s strengths and weaknesses. 

What are the benefits of Diagnostic Evaluations?

The primary benefits of psychological evaluation include diagnostic clarification, appropriate treatment recommendations, a written report to facilitate services in the community and/or at school, and insight into the nature of your child’s strengths and weaknesses. 

What are the potential risks of a Diagnostic Evaluation?

Although most individuals have a positive experience during the evaluation process, there are some risks. The person being evaluated may experience discomfort (e.g., frustration, anxiety, fatigue, etc.). Also, it is possible that the evaluation will not answer all your questions, and further evaluation may be needed.