Question 1

How much does an evaluation cost?

Accepted Answer

The cost of an evaluation varies depending on what assessments are recommended.  For example, updated testing to receive College and/or Standardized Testing Accommodations are generally less involved, and therefore are less expensive.  Whereas, determining the presence or extent of a learning disability is generally more involved.  In general psychoeducational evaluations conducted by Kathryn Thomas can be completed for less than $3,000.  For a good faith estimate of cost for your individual evaluation, or services requested please contact me directly.

Question 2

How long does an evaluation take?

Accepted Answer

The entire process, from initial referral to the final report and feedback meeting, takes approximately 3-4 weeks.    During the assessment phase there is one-to-one assessment with the student which can last from 2-6 hours (this may be completed over multiple visits).  In order to support families, I provide afternoon, evening, and weekend appointments for the one-to-one assessments.

Question 3

What are the benefits of an evaluation?

Accepted Answer

The benefits of learning about your individual strengths and needs are numerous.  A comprehensive psycho-educational evaluation can help provide clarity and direction for your learning goals.  Additionally, evaluation can help match appropriate interventions, accommodations, and services for your needs.  Please Contact Kathryn for additional questions about benefits of an evaluation.

Question 4

Will my program accept your evaluation, diagnosis, and/or recommendations?

Accepted Answer

The final decision regarding the acceptance of private psychoeducational evaluation is at the discretion of the school or program.  However, having worked in the private and public education settings for nearly 20 years, has given Kathryn Thomas extensive knowledge about which assessments and what documentations schools and programs are looking for when determining if they will accept a private psychoeducational evaluation.  Similarly, she is aware of the assessments and documentations needed for families who wish to pursue eligibility for IEP services, 504, or other accommodations.  It is at the discretion of the client to determine if the psychoeducational evaluation report from Kathryn Thomas is shared, and with whom.  Kathryn does not second release any information or reports.

Question 5

Can't I get a free evaluation from my child's school?

Accepted Answer

Simply put, maybe.  You can formally request an evaluation for special education services for your child from the public school, and the public school district must respond to all such requests.  However, the public school district is not obligated to provide an initial evaluation or a re-evaluation upon request.  Similarly, if a student is near to, or has  graduated from high school, the public schools are not required to provide a re-evaluation before program completion.  If a student seeks accommodations in a collegiate or vocational program, or on standardized assessments; they will often need a current (< 3 years old) and/or adult assessments to apply for accommodations.   Please contact me, if you would like additional information about your educational rights.

Frequently asked questions

How much does an evaluation cost?

How long does an evaluation take?

What are the benefits of an evaluation?

Will my program accept your evaluation, diagnosis, and/or recommendations?

Can't I get a free evaluation from my child's school?