Psychological Evaluation & Assessment – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Welcome to 3Rivers Therapists’ Evaluation & Assessment FAQ. This page explains what we offer, who we serve, and how the process works from referral to feedback.
Quick Answers
- Ages Served: Children, adolescents (8+), and adults.
- Typical Visit Length: Testing session is usually 2–3 hours.
- Authorization: If a full evaluation is appropriate, we request insurance authorization before testing.
- Parent Role (for minors): Caregivers remain on-site in the waiting room during testing and complete caregiver forms.
- Collaboration: With your consent, we gather input from teachers, therapists, and other providers.
- Results Timeline: Feedback appointment typically offered within ~4 weeks after testing is complete.
- Costs: Insurance coverage varies; any non-covered amount is the family’s responsibility.
Eligibility & Scope
Do you assess adults?
Yes. Our practice is equipped to assess children (8+), adolescents, and adults.
What kinds of concerns do you evaluate?
We complete comprehensive psychological assessments tailored to referral questions (e.g., attention/behavior, mood, learning, and related concerns). The exact tools and scope are determined by clinical need.
Getting Started
How do we schedule the first appointment?
Your first visit is an initial appointment. For children and adolescents, this involves parents/caregivers and the child. For adults, this involves the individual directly. We gather background information, review concerns, and determine whether a full psychological evaluation is appropriate.
What happens if a full evaluation is recommended?
With your permission, our team will request authorization from your insurance. Once authorization is approved, we will schedule the testing session.
Insurance & Payment
Will my insurance cover the evaluation?
Coverage varies by plan and authorization. We obtain pre-authorization when needed, but final coverage decisions are made by your insurer. Any portion not covered by insurance will be your financial responsibility.
Do you provide an estimate of cost?
We can review your benefits and provide a best-effort estimate. Please note this is not a guarantee of payment. Final patient responsibility depends on your plan’s deductible, co-insurance, copays, and insurer determinations.
The Testing Day
How long is the testing appointment?
Most sessions last 2–3 hours. Length can vary based on age, attention, and referral questions.
Who attends the testing session?
- For children/adolescents: The child meets individually with the Clinician. Parents/caregivers remain in the waiting room and complete caregiver questionnaires.
- For adults: The individual meets directly with the Clinician for testing.
What should we bring?
- Photo ID and insurance card(s)
- Any relevant IEP/504 plans, prior evaluations, report cards, teacher notes (for youth)
- Medication list and dosing schedule
- Snacks/water (if allowed) and glasses/hearing devices if used
Can breaks be taken?
Yes. Brief breaks are built in as needed to support best effort.
Collaboration & Releases
Why do you need releases of information (ROIs)?
A comprehensive assessment is strongest when we can gather input from key adults in your child’s or your own life (e.g., teachers, therapists, pediatricians, psychiatrists). We will ask you to sign ROIs so we can collect relevant information and coordinate recommendations.
After the Evaluation
When will we get results?
Once testing, scoring, and interpretation are complete, we schedule a feedback appointment—typically within about a month—to review results, diagnoses (if applicable), and personalized treatment and/or school recommendations.
Will we receive a written report?
Yes. You will receive a comprehensive written report summarizing findings and recommendations after the feedback appointment.
Preparation & Tips
How can we prepare?
- Ensure a good night’s sleep and a regular meal beforehand.
- Bring glasses/hearing aids if used and take prescribed medications as directed (unless your prescriber instructs otherwise).
- Reassure children that this is not a pass/fail test—we’re learning how they think and learn to support them better.
Scheduling, Cancellations & Rescheduling
What if we need to reschedule?
Please get in touch with us as soon as possible so we can offer the slot to another client and find a new time that works for you. Practice-wide late-cancellation/no-show policies apply.
Location & Accessibility
Where do assessments take place?
Testing is conducted on-site at 3Rivers Therapists Somerset office. Details will be provided in your appointment confirmation.
Do you offer accommodations?
Yes. Please let us know about accessibility needs (e.g., sensory considerations, mobility access, interpreter needs) so we can plan appropriately.
Contact
Have questions not answered here? Email us at info@3riverstherapists.com or call/text us at 412-212-8443.
Ready to schedule? Request Appointment https://www.3riverstherapists.com/request-appointment
*This page is for informational purposes and does not replace medical advice. Scope of services and availability may change over time.*