TESTING/ASSESSMENT for
Learning Disabilites
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Developmental Delays, Autism Spectrum Disorders
Should I have my child tested?
Parents have their children tested for Learning Disabilities (LD) or Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) for a variety of reasons. For some, it is comforting for the family to know that there is a specific name and a body of research for what they have been experiencing. Many kids with ADHD or LD mistakenly think that they are "stupid," "lazy," or "a bad kid" without fully understanding that their problems are actually confined to some small area and are not such a mystery after all. The results of an evaluation can help to “demystify” what is going on for the child and parents. Specific problem areas as well as strengths, can be pinpointed. Once these are known, kids can learn compensatory strategies to work around their areas of weakness and to capatalize on their strengths. Also, teachers are able to make appropriate accommodations and modifications in how they present material, test the student, and give assignments. Some of the accommodations often given to students with an LD or ADHD include, longer testing time, quiet testing rooms, shortened assignments, written outlines of classroom material, books on tape, verbal testing instead of written, etc. Another benefit to testing is that if treatment is pursued, insurance companies usually require testing and a diagnosis to pay for services.
Why Choose Dr. Greenaway?
Dr. Greenaway specializes in this type of testing and is well versed on the most up-to-date procedures. Because he has a degree in education as well as clinical psychology and was a teacher for 8 years, he understands the kinds of interventions that will be realistic and most useful for teachers. Oftentimes, learning issues are complicated by behavior problems, negative mood, or anxiety, and Dr. Greenaway is able to address these as part of the testing as well.
Because Dr. Greenaway is not officially affiliated with any school system, he can take an unbiased approach. Also, scheduling is much more convenient with Dr. Greenaway than with other settings. He is usually able to begin testing within 1-3 weeks of your initial call. And, he is more affordable than other options. (Click on Fees and Scheduling above). There are no hidden costs, and insurance is often able to pay a large portion. If you have further questions, please don’t hesitate to call.
What is involved in testing?
Testing begins with a parent interview to clarify the history of problems and other issues that may be going on. The child or teenager often takes part in the interview as well. Questionnaires, completed by the parents, teachers, and the child are also necessary. When possible, previous report cards and progress reports help in documenting the history of learning, attention, or organizational problems. Standardized tests are then used to assess various cognitive skills and abilities. After the evaluation, Dr. Greenaway sits down with the parents and often the child to explain the results and answer any questions. Results, applicable diagnoses, and recommendations are included in an in-depth written report. Recommendations offer the family strategies to employ at home and help guide teachers in providing needed accommodations and modifications.