School of Thought

“Psycho-educational what?” A Quick Guideline to Assessments

  

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“Psycho-educational what?”  A Quick Guideline to Assessments

Peg Jensen, M.S., Ed.S , Program Director for Assessments

The phrase “psycho-educational assessment” can seem daunting initially, however, it is important to realize how useful this process can be for a student’s outcome in the academic setting.  The information gleaned from such an assessment can help open doors for students   who are struggling with academic performance, concentration, and learning in general. Some may be wondering if they have Attention Deficit-Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) or a Learning Disability (LD), and may be interested in determining whether they qualify for educational accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act. The Americans with Disabilities Act provides for appropriate educational accommodations for students who meet the criteria for several conditions, including Learning Disorders, ADHD, and other psychiatric disorders.

So, what IS a psycho-educational assessment?  This is a very specialized assessment intended to help explore a better understanding of the nature of the student’s difficulties in academic performance and can provide detailed recommendations for both educational and clinical services and accommodations, if warranted. Most importantly, they provide parents, teachers, and students with pertinent information regarding how that student learns best and what areas might need additional support.      

There can be a plethora of possible causes for many types of learning difficulties, including LD, ADHD, medical conditions, brain injury, psychiatric disorders, substance abuse, problems with motivation, and/or stress. Therefore, this specialized type of assessment must comprehensively evaluate all aspects of an individual’s functioning and life history. It is also important to note that individuals with difficulty learning frequently experience emotional difficulties as a result. For example, anxiety and depression are commonly observed in individuals who have learning difficulties. Social difficulties can also arise as a result of difficulties in the academic setting.

 These assessments are offered in a variety of settings. First, public schools offer these services after receiving a written request from the parent and must do so within 60 days of receiving the request. Another possibility is consulting with local Licensed Clinical Psychologists in your area however, it is important to note that many insurance companies may not cover the entire cost, if at all. Finally, Dominion Education Center at CBA currently conducts these assessments with two clinicians on staff. In addition to the actual assessment, our clinicians will also perform classroom observations in the student’s school as well as meet with the teachers afterwards to review the results and offer recommendations.  Our mission at DEC is to determine what a student’s academic needs might be and offer our experience in meeting those needs.

Chesapeake Bay Academy: fox43tv.com