Psychological Testing and Evaluation

Parents who have concerns about their children's learning, achievement, emotions, or behavior have the opportunity to receive information about the child's functioning through psychological evaluations. Psychological evaluations generally include a series of tests which most typically assess intellectual and social/emotional functioning. In addition, psychological testing often includes school achievement testing.

There are several reasons to request psychological testing:

1. To determine current academic functioning, including strengths and weaknesses.
2. To evaluate the appropriateness of educational placement, and to determine the need for supplemental services.
3. To explore the impact of particular circumstances or stressors on emotional and behavioral functioning.
4. To explore underlying issues which may impact functioning.
5. To plan for the future to help the child reach his or her full potential.

At an initial intake session with the parent and child, UPCCES staff will determine the need for psychological testing. If testing is indicated, tests will be chosen which meet the child's individual needs and concerns, with particular sensitivity to cultural issues. Families are encouraged to bring previous school records, test reports, and counseling reports so we can gain a comprehensive view of the child. The parent and child will be interviewed during the initial intake session. On the second session, the child will then be administered the test battery. The last session consists of providing feedback and recommendations to the parents and the child.

Future recommendations may relate to family, peers, school, and specific areas of concerns. If counseling is indicated, a decision is made whether this can best be accomplished at the Counseling Center or by referral to another agency.

It is important to remember that all information provided is strictly confidential.

Other things important to know:

1. All services are provided with particular sensitivity to ethnic and cultural concerns.
2. The service is completely CONFIDENTIAL.