Psychoeducational assessments evaluate intellectual, academic, attentional, and emotional/behavioral issues that are potentially impacting a student’s school (academic and social) functioning, and are most similar to the Full and Individual Evaluations (FIEs) conducted by school psychologists in the school system. These assessments consist of a cognitive assessment (including memory and other areas of processing), academic testing in all areas, consultation with school staff and other professionals, and review of educational records. Based on the referral concern, social/emotional rating scales, clinical interviews, and additional measures of processing such as attention may also be assessed. If 504 or special education services are desired, specific care will be taken to include TEA criteria as well as diagnostic impressions in the written report.

Dyslexia/Dysgraphia Assessment

The comprehensive assessment of dyslexia and dysgraphia typically requires additional subtests beyond a standard cognitive and academic assessment in order to meet TEA criteria for identification of these related disorders. An evaluation specifically for dyslexia or dysgraphia comprises of all the elements of the psychoeducational assessment as well as the additional components needed for identification of these related disorders. Dyslexia and Dysgraphia evaluations conducted by Dr. Renken are only recommended for children in first grade or higher. This is to help ensure that the student has had enough opportunity to benefit from academic instruction. Though testing may be done for a student in the first grade, there are several components of a typical dyslexia or dysgraphia evaluation (such as reading fluency) that cannot be completed until 2nd or 3rd grade due to limitations of standardized tests. If 504 or special education services are being sought, consultation with the child’s school/district will also be attempted in order to use assessment instruments with the greatest likelihood of being accepted by the school/district without the need for further testing.

Academic Assessment Only

At times individuals may wish to request only an academic assessment in order to determine present academic levels for themselves or their child. An academic assessment in isolation typically consists of 2-2.5 hours of direct testing in the basic areas of academics (basic reading, reading fluency, reading comprehension, math calculation, math problem solving, spelling, and written expression).