Frequently Asked Questions
Understanding your options is the first step toward finding your next steps.
How do I know if I or my child needs a psychological evaluation?
You may want to consider an evaluation if you or your child are experiencing difficulties with attention, learning, behavior, social interactions, emotional functioning, or everyday activities. Psychological testing can help identify strengths, better understand challenges, clarify diagnoses, and provide recommendations for support.
Can psychological testing help with school or college accommodations?
Yes. Evaluation results can provide documentation of diagnosed conditions and functional difficulties that may support requests for accommodations, such as those considered through an IEP, Section 504 plan, or college disability services. However, each school or institution determines eligibility and accommodations according to its own requirements.
Can adults receive psychological testing?
Absolutely! Psychological evaluations are not just for children. Many adults seek testing after years of struggling with attention, organization, learning, social relationships, or other challenges. An evaluation can provide clarity, even if concerns were not recognized during childhood.
Can someone have ADHD even if they are doing well in school or at work?
Yes. ADHD can affect individuals differently. Some children and adults perform well academically or professionally but experience significant challenges with organization, time management, concentration, impulsivity, or completing tasks. Good grades or professional success do not automatically rule out ADHD.
What if I think I have autism but was never diagnosed as a child?
Autism can be identified at any age. Some individuals, particularly those who have learned to compensate for or mask their social and communication differences, may not receive a diagnosis until adolescence or adulthood. An evaluation can help explore whether your experiences are consistent with autism spectrum disorder or another explanation.
What should I expect during a psychological evaluation?
The process typically begins with gathering background information and discussing your concerns. Depending on the reason for testing, the evaluation may include interviews, questionnaires, standardized assessments, and other measures. After the evaluation, findings are reviewed and a written report is prepared with results and individualized recommendations.
What if testing does not result in a diagnosis?
Not every evaluation results in a diagnosis, and that is okay. The purpose of testing is to gain a better understanding of your functioning, not simply to assign a label. Even when diagnostic criteria are not met, an evaluation can identify strengths, areas of difficulty, and helpful recommendations.
Does insurance cover psychological testing?
Insurance coverage varies depending on your plan, the reason for testing, and whether services are considered medically necessary. Some evaluations, including certain educational or gifted assessments, may not be covered. We recommend verifying benefits and discussing potential out-of-pocket expenses before scheduling.
Still Have Questions? We're Here to Help.
Understanding yourself or your child's needs can feel overwhelming, but you don't have to navigate the process alone. At Next Steps Psychological Services, our goal is to provide answers, clarity, and meaningful recommendations to help you confidently determine your next steps.
Take the first step toward understanding. Call or Email us today to learn more about our evaluation services.
