testing

Psychoeducational Testing

Psychoeducational testing refers to the psychological tests used to analyze how an individual’s mental processes affect their educational performance. These tests can identify any underlying disorders and help schools adequately support learning and behavior. Social communication issues, developmental disorders, learning disabilities, attention deficits and memory difficulties are assessed. Via psychoeducational testing Dr. Padron is able to provide appropriate recommendations, which may include an Individualized Educational Plan (IEP) or accommodations for those who are students. Possible accommodations include:

  • Extended time on tests (e.g. SAT, FAST, FSA, AP/College Board testing, ACT, LSAT, MCAT, other standardized testing)

  • Use of a calculator

  • Distraction free environment for tests

  • Separate testing room

  • Breaks throughout testing

Gifted placement testing is also available. Psychoeducational evaluations can highlight an individual’s strengths, which can impact how they are challenged in an academic setting. This can allow students to thrive in school and appropriately use their strengths in the classroom.

  • Children with learning challenges may exhibit specific characteristics and deserve testing for proper evaluation. These characteristics include:
    -Difficulty learning
    -Poor grades
    -Below average reading, writing, or math abilities
    -Inattention
    -Frustration with school
    -Lack of motivation
    -Behavioral issues in class
    -Feelings of inadequacy
    -Poor organizational skills
    -Emotional reactivity

    If your child exhibits these characteristics, contact Dr. Padron for evaluation. An evaluation can help determine if psychoeducational testing would benefit their learning and school experience.

  • Your child may express anxiety prior to testing day; this is very common. Reassure them that the testing is only to find out why school may be a struggle for them, despite them putting forth all their effort. With the help of Dr. Padron, you can help your child understand that these tests will simply contain a series of puzzles, drawings, stories, questions, and games. The tests are made to be fun, rather than scary!

  • Absolutely! If you find that your work or academic performance is being impaired by difficulties concentrating or staying on task, testing can help clarify problem areas. Once those areas are identified, Dr. Padron can help you build skills in executive functioning areas such as memory, attention, organization, planning, and problem solving.

testing psychological test accommodation exam extra time

Psychological testing

Psychological testing is utilized to help clarify mental health diagnoses and better inform treatment. Testing can include personality measures, cognitive assessments (e.g. memory, attention, and reasoning), symptom severity measures, intelligence testing, and behavioral measures. Psychological testing is one of the best ways to comprehensively understand an individuals’ mental health profile. Personality assessments, symptom severity evaluations, intelligence measures, and cognitive tests are used to pinpoint treatment targets. If you’ve struggled to understand your diagnosis or have had doubts of a previous diagnosis, testing can provide clarification.