FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
HOW LONG DOES A TYPICAL EVALUATION TAKE?
Evaluations are tailored to each child individually, however, we prioritize obtaining an exceptionally thorough clinical picture. Due to the uniqueness and complexity of all children, evaluations typically require 6-8 hours of testing (depending on child’s age and presenting concerns), a parent feedback appointment and a school feedback session. Testing sessions are scheduled over two days. A classroom observation may occur for some children, as needed.
WHAT DOES A TYPICAL EVALUATION "LOOK" LIKE? HOW CAN I EXPLAIN THE DAY(S) TO MY CHILD?
Evaluations are interactive, age-appropriate and include a variety of table tasks, computer tasks, play-based tasks, and conversational activities. We recommend keeping the explanation simple for your child. Explain that they are going to be doing different activities (e.g., puzzles, blocks, drawing, reading) to see how they “learn the best.” Children are given frequent breaks, prizes and snacks throughout the evaluation and most children enjoy the process. Aside from getting a good night sleep and eating a healthy breakfast, no preparation is required. Your child should be reassured that no shots or anything medical will happen.
DO YOU USE THE "GOLD STANDARD" FOR AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER EVALUATIONS?
YES YES YES! This is something we feel very strongly about as practitioners. We use the gold standard, which includes the Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R) and the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, Second Edition (ADOS-2) for each ASD evaluation. We are research-trained in both instruments, which unfortunately is less commonly seen among clinicians who are in fact utilizing these assessments. In addition, we use clinical observations, standardized caregiver/teacher questionnaires, school observations, and a variety of other age-appropriate standardized assessments to support an ASD evaluation.
HOW DO I KNOW IF MY CHILD NEEDS AN EVALUATION?
Children and adolescents are typically referred for testing by their school, therapist, pediatrician or parents if they are having learning, attentional, social/emotional or behavioral difficulties, or when there is a question of giftedness. During the initial parent meeting, we will help determine whether a comprehensive evaluation is necessary.
DO YOU COLLABORATE WITH MY CHILD'S SCHOOL OR CURRENT PROVIDERS?
Yes! We believe strongly in establishing a strong bond with school professionals, teachers, and other allied professions. We often conduct classroom observations, routinely obtain teacher observations of the child, and attend school feedback meetings to present evaluation findings. In addition, we assist with IEP/504 Plan development.
WHO CONDUCTS THE EVALUATION OR SCHOOL OBSERVATION?
We conduct all aspects of the evaluation process ourselves. We do not employ graduate students or technicians.
DO YOU BILL INSURANCE?
We currently accept Colorado Medicaid and Kaiser. Please note that not all plans cover the services we offer.
We also accept fee for service or out-of-pocket pay. Comprehensive diagnostic evaluations typically range from $2,000-$3,500 depending on the focus of your child's assessment.
For families who do not utilize insurance, following provision of services, you will receive an invoice or "superbill" detailing relevant insurance codes. You are encouraged to submit this to your insurance provider for reimbursement.