When children struggle, families need information that is individualized to the child, practical to their environment, and grounded in science. At My Child Assessment Los Angeles, our comprehensive evaluations encompass the careful balance of data from rigorously developed tests, collaborations with educators and parents, and clinically guided insights and observations, in order to form a well-rounded and thoughtful understanding of the individual. Our holistic, detail oriented, and research backed assessments represent the gold standard of testing services for children with neurodevelopmental and psychological challenges.
Do you have concerns about your child’s learning or their ability to problem solve? Does your child seem distractible, impulsive, or are they always “on the go”? Does your child seem anxious or irritable, or do they struggle with friendships? Perhaps they were delayed in one or more areas of development, and their skills in this area have continued to lag behind over the years. Some children exhibit highly advanced abilities in some areas, but struggle in others. Challenges such as these can be baffling, because of the often changing and uneven nature of development. Furthermore, issues such as these can be difficult to identify without a formal evaluation, because of they are a part of larger, complex puzzle of cognitive strengths and weaknesses.
Dr. Nicole Michaeli, Ph.D. is a clinical psychologist specializing in comprehensive assessments of children, adolescents, and young adults in Los Angeles, California. She has over 15 years of experience in the identification and treatment of neurodevelopmental disorders and holds a dual specialization in assessment as well as therapy. Dr. Michaeli earned her undergraduate degree at UCLA, and her M.A. and Ph.D. in clinical psychology from the California School of Professional Psychology, an APA-accredited program. Her clinical training has included the assessment of diverse individuals across a broad range of settings, including inner-city youth with severe and persistent cognitive disorders, autistic children at local Regional Centers, incarcerated individuals with intellectual disabilities, and evaluation of children and adults in private practice. Dr. Michaeli completed a predoctoral internship in therapy at Vista Del Mar Child and Family Services, and she has a great deal of experience in providing psychotherapy to children, individuals, and families. She is trained in psychodynamic-based play therapy with children, as well as cognitive-behavioral, family systems, and relational models of therapy.
Dr. Michaeli’s approach to assessment is informed by her dual training as an assessor and psychotherapist, which affords her the opportunity to not only understand neurocognitive challenges, but to also delve deeper into the child’s inner world and understand their social and emotional experiences, thereby forming a more nuanced, well rounded, and holistic view of the individual. Through her integration of empirically validated test data, collaborations with parents, educators, and providers, and application of cutting-edge research in children’s development, Dr. Michaeli’s comprehensive assessment represents the gold standard of testing methods.
Dr. Michaeli is an expert speaker and consultant who shares her knowledge on children’s learning and psychology through lectures, and numerous digital media outlets including blogs, podcasts, and webinars. Her caring, compassionate demeanor and ability to connect with children and parents make her an invaluable partner not only to families but to educators and other professionals participating in the child’s care.
A child’s perpetual restlessness, difficulty in sustaining focus, or impulsiveness might be more than just fleeting phases. These can be indicative of attention disorders like ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder), which can influence academic achievement, social interactions, and self-esteem. At My Child Assessment Los Angeles, Dr. Michaeli offers specialized evaluations to delineate the nuances of these attention challenges. With accurate diagnosis and personalized guidance, we can pave the way for interventions that harness a child’s strengths and address their challenges, enabling them to flourish in every aspect of their life. Let’s partner to spotlight and support your child’s unique capabilities.
Every child learns at their own pace, but consistent challenges in mastering specific skills might indicate a learning disorder. From difficulty with reading and comprehension to struggles with mathematical concepts, learning disorders can hamper academic progress and self-esteem. At My Child Assessment Los Angeles, Dr. Michaeli specializes in identifying these disorders, providing clear insights and tailored strategies. With the right support and understanding, every child can unlock their true potential and thrive in their educational journey. Empower your child with the tools they need for success.
Does your child show a deep curiosity about the world around them, or are they able to grasp information at a rapid pace? Do they seem to have natural abilities in problem-solving, in their use of language, learning of new concepts, or the arts? Children who are gifted have special talents and are able to perform at a level much higher than their peers. My Child Assessment Los Angeles offers comprehensive gifted assessments in order to recognize your child’s unique talents and provide them with the tools that will help them soar.
Witnessing your child grappling with pervasive worries, fears, or aversions can be distressing. These could be symptoms of an anxiety disorder, which, when identified early and comprehensively, can be managed effectively. At My Child Assessment Los Angeles, Dr. Michaeli offers meticulous evaluations to pinpoint the nature of these anxieties, guiding families toward tailored solutions that can restore balance, peace, and happiness to your child’s life. Discover the path to understanding and support today.
Tailored educational support can make all the difference for a child facing learning or attention challenges. An IEP is a customized plan designed to meet the specific needs of a student with a disability. At My Child Assessment Los Angeles, Dr. Michaeli is skilled in guiding families through the IEP process, ensuring that each child receives the resources and accommodations necessary for their academic success. Whether it’s modifying teaching methods, providing additional time for tasks, or offering specialized tools, our goal is to foster an optimal learning environment. Together, we can pave a path that celebrates every child’s potential and addresses their unique challenges. Equip your child with the education they deserve.
Navigating the world of academics can be challenging, especially for young minds that process information differently. While standardized tests such as the ISEE, SAT, and GRE aim to evaluate students uniformly, they may not always reflect the abilities of those with neurodiverse profiles. Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), individuals with disabilities are eligible to receive necessary testing accommodations, in order to provide an equal opportunity for them to demonstrate their capabilities. This includes a mental impairment that limits a life activity such as learning, reading, concentrating or thinking. In most cases, these disabilities must be documented by a qualified professional, through a formal assessment. My Child Assessment Los Angeles offers comprehensive assessments required to secure exam accommodations, ensuring children and young adults receive the support they need for these critical exams.
Comprehensive assessments involve an in depth examination of individuals’ cognitive strengths and weaknesses, and their social and emotional development. The assessments that Dr. Michaeli conducts encompass the careful balance of data from empirically validated tests, collaboration with individuals who know the child, and her own clinical insights to form a well-rounded and nuanced conceptualization of the individual. When it comes to neurodiverse children, the difficulties that are observed often represent only symptoms of the problem, and not the problem itself.
The human brain is unique in the way it influences thinking, behaviors, and emotions Understanding these multifaceted differences is what sets our assessments apart. Dr. Michaeli likens her assessment approach to that of an architect: without understanding the foundation first, one cannot build a strong, free-standing home. Similarly, without appreciating the differences of the neurodivergent brain, a clinician cannot appropriately address their needs and help them to be strong and independent learners.
