FAQS

Testing services are solely provided by Dr. Melissa to include testing, assessment, scoring, interpretation, diagnostic formulation, report writing, and feedback. Notably, Dr. Melissa only does as much testing is needed to answer concerns or referral questions, trying not to “over-test” clients. She also uses the most recent available testing methodologies (i.e. iPads & computer). 

Parents are often surprised to learn that a medical diagnosis, such as Autism Spectrum Disorder, does not automatically entitle a student to special education services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Eligibility for special education services is based on an educational determination of a disability, which includes meeting not just the criteria for a specific disability (such as Autism), but also finding that a student is in need of modifications to access the general academic and/or social/emotional curriculum. Understanding the differences between a medical diagnosis and an educational determination of eligibility for special education services can help parents become better advocates for their children.

A medical diagnosis is made by a psychologist or other specially trained clinician by using symptom criteria set in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition, Text Revision (DSM-V-TR), published by the American Psychological Association. By contrast, educational eligibility is decided by a team comprised of various school professionals and the student's parents/guardians. The team must find that the student qualifies for services under IDEA. To be eligible, IDEA requires that a student have at least one of 14 specified disabilities and be in need of special services.

• Psychological/neuropsychological evaluations are both more targeted and expansive. 
• Psychological/neuropsychological evaluations provide medical diagnoses if appropriate, and interventions beyond the school setting.
• Due to Dr. Melissa's training, the evaluator can offer special education classifications for the school to consider. 
• Many school psychologists do not have training in personality/neuropsychological measures and have a limited scope in test interpretation.
• Evaluations done by schools may be done in pieces by several different professionals so parents do not get a synthesized, comprehensive understanding of how to help their child.  
• Psychologists provide objective recommendations that are not biased by the school or school district.

Certain tests cannot be administered within the span of a calendar year due to practice effects. However, this does not preclude a second evaluation as there are other measures available. Please let Dr. Melissa know if your child has had recent testing so you and she can discuss the best path forward.

Be as open with your child as you would like about the evaluation. Many parents find it helpful to tell their child that this testing will help them understand how they learn best, and that this testing will help make school and home life as happy and successful as possible. It is also helpful to remind them that no one gets every question right and the most important thing is to try their best. There will not be any scary machines or shots. In fact, Dr. Melissa uses iPads for many tests used. 

There is no need to study or prepare yourself or your child for testing. This is done by design. The best thing anyone can do to prepare themselves for their in-person appointment is to get plenty of rest the night before and eat a healthy breakfast. If they take any medications, please have your child take them as prescribed. 

Some children may like the idea of going to therapy, whereas others may feel anxious, apprehensive, or unsure. It is important to give your child plenty of notice and information about therapy as soon as possible. Make sure that your child is in a calm and relaxed state when talking to them about going to therapy. Use language that matches your child’s age and developmental stage. Remember that your child, no matter how mature they seem, is not a ‘mini adult’. Their brains are still developing; therefore they cannot reason or behave the way that adults do, especially when they are upset or anxious. 

Acknowledge with your child the challenges/difficulties that they as well as the family are facing. Let them know that as a family you will be getting support to help manage what is happening. Let your child know that many families and children go to counseling when things get tough (a little like seeing a doctor or dentist when feeling sick or when a tooth is sore). Let your child know that you will be with them and will be apart of the counseling process too. 

Try to keep your description of therapy simple without overwhelming your child with too much information (e.g. “It is a safe place where you can talk to a support person about your worries, and also do fun things such as painting, drawing, or making things”). It can be unhelpful to tell your child that they are meeting a “new friend” or that they are going somewhere “just to play” – this can be confusing for them. For specific questions related to your child's preparedness, please reach out to Dr. Melissa. 

It is understood that life can get in the way of scheduled appointments. You are kindly asked to provide at least 48 hours' notice if you need to cancel or reschedule your testing appointment. Otherwise, you may be charged a cancellation fee.

While Dr. Melissa is a licensed psychologist, she is an out-of-network provider which means she does not have contracts with insurance companies and therefore does not directly bill insurance for services. Please visit the Financial Investment page for additional information.