The assessment begins with an intake appointment, during which Dr. Michaeli meets with parents to discuss current concerns and the child’s background history. For elementary school students, a classroom observation is conducted before testing. Testing appointments are typically scheduled over three sessions, although the exact number of sessions may vary according to scheduling considerations or for individuals who need shorter appointments. During the assessment process, Dr. Michaeli collaborates with parents, teachers, and providers working with the child (i.e., therapist, tutor, psychiatrist, etc.) through phone interviews and administration of behavior rating forms. After the testing is concluded, Dr. Michaeli meets with parents for a detailed feedback session, where she discusses findings and recommendations, including comprehensive treatment planning. Dr. Michaeli also meets individually with the child or adolescent during a separate student feedback meeting. Parents are provided with a comprehensive report shortly after the feedback session.

The timing of a new assessment can vary depending on the individual’s needs, the severity of the problems, and the specific reason for reevaluation (e.g., seeking standardized testing accommodations, determining the need for medication support, etc.). However, it is generally recommended that reassessments occur every 2 to 4 years to document the student’s progress, evaluate their response to interventions, and update treatment planning.

Testing conducted for an IEP is targeted and designed to determine eligibility for special education services. As such, an IEP evaluation typically does not include the full scope of assessments provided in a comprehensive psychoeducational evaluation. The results of an IEP evaluation determine whether a student meets criteria for one of the categories established by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), such as specific learning disability, speech or language impairment, or emotional disturbance. However, these categories are assigned solely to determine the supports a student needs to access the curriculum and are not the same as a clinical diagnosis.

Dr. Michaeli is qualified to perform Independent Educational Evaluations (IEEs). An IEE may be requested when a parent disagrees with the results of a school-conducted evaluation or when such an evaluation is not available. An IEE is a private assessment conducted by an examiner who is not employed by the child’s school. This comprehensive evaluation provides insight into the student’s learning profile and social-emotional functioning, helping to inform the specific services and supports needed as part of the student’s overall educational plan.

Yes. A comprehensive psychoeducational assessment can be used to support applications for accommodations on standardized tests (such as the SAT, ACT, GRE, LSAT, or MCAT) as well as entrance exams for private schools or colleges. These evaluations document the student’s cognitive, academic, and social-emotional functioning, and include diagnostic information when appropriate. The results can be submitted to testing agencies to demonstrate the need for accommodations such as extended time, breaks, or other supports that ensure equitable test access.

We are not directly contracted as a provider with any insurance panels; however, depending on the insurance carrier, policy coverage, and diagnosis, a portion of the assessment may be eligible for reimbursement. At the conclusion of the evaluation, families may request a superbill, which can be submitted to their insurance for potential reimbursement.