As society becomes more aware of the science behind mental health and mental health conditions, psychoeducational assessments are becoming more prevalent. Approximately 1 in 44 children are diagnosed with autism each year, so parents are becoming increasingly aware of possible issues they may notice at home, school, or in social situations.
Assessment testing is increasingly available nationwide. If you live in Florida, for example, psychoeducational testing in Tampa is one of the options available to you or your loved ones.
If you believe that you or a loved one may require a psychoeducational evaluation, learn more about what you can expect below.
What is a Psychoeducational Assessment?
These assessments are a form of testing that is backed by science. They help determine the presence of a learning disability while also taking into account the diagnosable Autism spectrum.
During such an assessment, there will be interviews and conversations between the mental health professional, the parent(s) or guardian(s), and the individual undergoing the assessment.
Let’s go over some of the exact procedures that you can expect during such an assessment and then elaborate on each step. It is important to remember that psychoeducational assessments are not intrusive.
Procedures Involved
- General Questionnaire
- Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire
- Interview with the Patient
- Consultation with the Parent or Guardian
- ADOS-2
- STAT
Explanation of Procedures
While questionnaires will vary from location to location, interviews are generally pretty similar depending on the responses from the interviewees.
The two “diagnostic tools” to consider are the last two acronyms in the list above.
ADOS-2
The Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS-2) is a tool that allows the physician to take an individualistic approach to each child’s situation. Younger children are assessed using a more “play-based” rubric, while older children are engaged in a more conversational-type review.
This situation-based assessment can benefit all involved because of the varied evidence of a learning disability and the associated diagnoses.
STAT
The Screening Tool for Autism in Toddlers (a.k.a. STAT) is a screening program that works hand-in-hand with other assessments like the ADOS-2 for younger children. It will not be used as a method of diagnosis but rather as a way to determine the merits of further testing.
There are additional screening methods (such as the CSBS), but STAT is by far the broadest form.
Psychoeducational Testing in Tampa
Armed with the brief knowledge you’ve learned here, please consider your options in whatever geographical area you call home. Remember to take your insurance provider’s coverage into account as well.
If you are looking for psychoeducational testing in Tampa, you have some great options.
If you have additional questions or concerns or are trying to decide whether or not assessment testing is right for you or your loved one, please feel free to reach out to our office, and we will be happy to help consult you or walk you through the process.