The Quincy Medical Group Pediatric Assessment Center offers psychological testing services for children from birth up to 17 years of age. Our tests are designed to scientifically assess a child’s symptoms, including symptoms related to attention, difficulty learning, social difficulties, sensory integration, emotional or behavioral problems, autism, or general developmental delays. We also assess children for giftedness and school readiness to ensure proper school placement. The information helps our clinical psychologist to determine a child’s diagnosis and assists us in identifying their strengths and weaknesses. A strengths-based approach and research is utilized to develop comprehensive, individualized recommendations to help improve your child’s overall functioning and development in the home, school, and community environments.
Assessments may include the following:
- Initial intake meeting with parents/caregivers
- Reviewing relevant medical and school records
- Consulting with other professionals who work with your child
- Meeting with the child to complete objective tests
- Feedback with the parents/caregivers
- Easy to understand written report that outlines your child’s medical and psychological history, test findings, diagnosis, and individualized recommendations
Why should my child have a Psychological Assessment?
Although sometimes children’s symptoms appear clear cut, children are often misdiagnosed. For example, recent research suggests that over one million children are improperly diagnosed with AD/HD. This is because there are several other disorders that mimic symptoms of AD/HD, including learning disabilities, speech/language delays, anxiety, depression, or behavioral difficulties. Some children are also just exhibiting normal childhood behavior and are over diagnosed. Having a proper diagnosis is critical for determining the proper treatment for your child and will also provide information that can guide educational planning.
Does my child need a Psychological Assessment?
Upon completion of the initial intake with parents/caregivers, the assessment team will review the information and determine if a comprehensive assessment is warranted. If the assessment is not necessary, appropriate referrals for speech therapy, occupational therapy, counseling services, or additional services would be provided recommended.
How do I get a Psychological Assessment for my child?
If you believe your child would benefit from a Psychological Assessment, please call your primary care provider to request a referral.
