F.A.Q.

How long does an evaluation take to complete?

The evaluation process can take several hours, sometimes requiring two or more sessions, to complete the needed assessments. The length of the sessions will depend on your child’s age, attention, level of activity, need for breaks, and complexity of the evaluation. 

What steps are involved in the process of an evaluation?

Intake Packet: The first step is to complete and return the SEC Intake Packet, which includes the following documents: Notice of Privacy Practices; Confidentiality and Informed Consent; LPC Statement of Professional Disclosure; Background Information; and Release of Information form.

Assessments: Some assessments will involve one on one interactions between your child
and the examiner. Other tests will include rating scales, checklists, and questionnaires to be completed by parents and teachers (these assessments will be electronically generated and sent to you by link in your email). Some data will be collected through the examiner’s observations.

Report Writing and Feedback: Once all assessments have been administered and all rating scales (from parent/guardian and teachers) have been returned, the examiner will begin analyzing data and writing the Evaluation Report. Once the report is complete, the examiner will schedule an appointment to review the Evaluation Report. At the Evaluation Report Review, you will receive a printed copy of your child’s report.

Should my child take their regular medication on the day of their evaluation?

Another common question is about medication on the day of the evaluation, particularly ADHD medication. If your child is being assessed for concerns regarding attention, focus, hyperactivity, or impulse control, they should NOT take their medication on the day of the evaluation (so the evaluator can get a good read of their functioning without medication).

How can I prepare my child?

  • Ensure your child gets a full night’s sleep the night before your evaluation.

  • Ensure your child has a meal or snack before attending their assessment session. You may also pack your child a healthy snack and water bottle to bring to the session, if needed.

  • Prepare to leave early and arrive on time so you and your child arrive relaxed and in the best state of mind to do their best work.

  • Talk to your child about the process. Try to avoid the word “testing.” Let them know they will be doing some “activities” with things like blocks, puzzles, word games, and answering some questions. Let them know some things will be easy and some things may be hard, but to try their very best. Remind them these activities help us figure out what they are really good at, and what they may need some help with.

  • Consider celebrating your child’s hard work after the testing session (i.e., visit the park, play/color together, cook their favorite meal, go out for ice cream, etc).