What to Expect During a Psychological / Neuropsychological Evaluation

Psychological and neuropsychological evaluations are designed to answer the questions that matter most to individuals and families. Every step of the process is structured around gaining clarity, understanding patterns, and translating findings into meaningful guidance.

The evaluation begins with an intake appointment. This is where we roll up our sleeves and take the time to deeply understand the individual’s background. We discuss developmental history, medical history, psychological and psychiatric experiences, social functioning, and educational history. For child evaluations, this appointment is attended by parents or guardians only, allowing space for open and detailed discussion.

Following the intake, I determine the most appropriate evaluation plan based on the specific questions we are trying to answer. Testing may include measures of intellectual functioning, attention, executive skills, language and communication, memory, academic skills, visual-spatial processing, motor skills, personality, or social functioning. Each evaluation is individualized—there is no preset battery applied to everyone.

Testing is conducted in person at my office and typically occurs over one or two three-hour appointments. Some tests are completed using paper and pencil, others on an iPad, and others involve hands-on materials such as blocks, cards, or game-based tasks. I conduct all testing myself, which allows for close observation, flexibility, and responsiveness to the individual’s needs.

Parents and caregivers wait in the waiting room during testing. Breaks are built into the session and tailored by age: younger children typically take short, frequent breaks; older children and adolescents take fewer, longer breaks. Patients are welcome to bring preferred snacks, and I also keep a variety of snacks and beverages available in the office.

After testing is complete, I score and interpret the results over the course of several days. Parents then schedule a feedback appointment, during which we review findings, discuss diagnoses when applicable, and walk through recommendations together. For child evaluations, feedback appointments are attended by parents or guardians only.

Following feedback, I prepare a comprehensive written report that families can revisit, share with schools if needed, and use to guide next steps such as educational supports, therapy, or accommodations.

To keep the process clear and manageable, I use automated scheduling and reminders through Calendly. Intake and feedback appointments can be conducted either in person or via Google Meet, while testing appointments are always in person at my office, located within America’s Health Suite.

I manage all aspects of the practice myself, without office staff, which allows for continuity and transparency. If there is ever a delay in returning a call or email, it is usually because I am in session with a patient. I appreciate your patience and will respond as promptly as possible.

When you arrive, you will check in using an iPad in the waiting room. I will receive a notification and meet you shortly thereafter. Restrooms are located inside the office suite; if needed, you can message me through the iPad and I will come out to assist.

My goal is for every step of the evaluation process to feel clear, supportive, and intentional. Understanding should never feel confusing or intimidating—and you should always know what comes next.

Category
Insights
Written by
Dr. Justin Gardner
Psychologist | Founder
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