Psychological Assessment

Dr. Harriman conducts comprehensive psychological evaluations for children and adolescents, ages 6-18. Psychological assessment, or psychological testing, is a process designed to answer specific questions about a child’s behavior, personality, and/or capabilities. This service is often recommended when usual treatment fails, a child no longer functions well in her environment (e.g., poor grades, difficulty communicating with others), or when a specific diagnosis must be clarified (e.g., learning disability, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder). Psychological assessment will address concerns like attention difficulties, learning disabilities, executive function difficulties, interpersonal challenges, mood disorders, PTSD, and personality functioning.

Dr. Harriman uses standardized tests along with clinical interviews, records review, and consultations in order to assess a child's executive functioning, learning and concentration, memory, language, personality, social relationships and skills, and academic functioning. Because this approach is multifaceted, the results are more detailed than a mere school assessment or doctor screening.

This multifaceted approach typically occurs over a 6-8 week period. The process begins with an intake interview and continues with psychological testing across three sessions. Sessions typically last 2 to 3 hours. Ultimately, Dr. Harriman not only analyzes and summarizes the data into a comprehensive report, but also reviews the results with the family.

This review includes a comprehensive report that details your child’s strengths and weaknesses, diagnoses, and recommendations tailored to your child’s specific needs. If recommended, Dr. Harriman will assist you in advocating for your child’s needs through referrals for therapeutic or academic services.

Types of evaluations offered:

Dr. Harriman primary focuses on two assessment methods: (a) psychodiagnostic assessment and (b) psychoeducational assessment. The child's needs will determine which method is used. Psychodiagnostic evaluations help diagnose and clarify concerns regarding behavior, personality traits, mood, emotional functioning, and cognitive processes. While Psychoeducational evaluations assess skills related to the learning process, e.g., intellectual aptitude, academic ability, information processing, attention, and memory. In some cases, the methodology may include assessments of different aspects of emotion and personality.

Fees and Insurance:

Psychological assessment is offered on a fee for service schedule. A reduced rate may be available.

Your health insurance may include psychological testing as a covered benefit. Please confirm coverage and benefits prior to initiating services, particularly as some plans require prior authorization. Dr. Harriman is an in-network provider with Aetna and Anthem Blue Cross.

Please contact Dr. Harriman for further information about testing fees.