A psychoeducational evaluation determines if your child has a learning disability or other issues that negatively impact his or her ability to learn. It assesses the child’s cognitive (intellectual) abilities, academic achievement levels, information processing abilities, and general emotional and behavioral issues. The evaluation includes emotional and behavioral functioning, and their impact on the child’s academic skills. A child with special education services is evaluated at least every 3 years to determine continued eligibility for services. If you suspect your child has a disability affecting his or her education, you may request a psychoeducational evaluation to be completed by the school district.
I differ from most licensed educational psychologists in that I use Cattell-Horn-Carroll’s (CHC) theory of cognitive abilities as part of the psychoeducational assessment. It is a hierarchical model of intelligence that is based on research, and used to better determine overall intellectual ability. CHC is regarded as the most validated model of intelligence, with years of research and review. Many major tests of intelligence are atheoretical, meaning they are not based on theory. I use research-based procedures to evaluate each child in order to accurately interpret all data.
