What to Expect from a Psychological Evaluation

A comprehensive psychological evaluation is a structured process designed to gain a detailed understanding of an individual’s cognitive, emotional, and behavioral functioning. At First Step Behavioral Services, evaluations are tailored to each person’s needs and concerns, whether for diagnostic clarity, educational planning, or treatment guidance.

Come as you are!

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Typical Steps Involved in the Evaluation Process

1. Initial Intake Interview
   • A one-on-one conversation (via Zoom / telehealth or in person) to gather background information, developmental history, current concerns, and goals for the evaluation.
   • For children and teens, this includes interviews with parents or caregivers.
2. Review of Records
   • Educational, medical, psychological, and behavioral records are reviewed to better understand past assessments, interventions, and relevant history.
3. Standardized Testing
   • A selection of evidence-based tests are administered to assess:
     • Cognitive functioning (e.g., attention, memory, reasoning)
     • Academic skills (e.g., reading, math, writing)
     • Executive functioning (e.g., planning, organization, impulse control)
     • Emotional, social, and behavioral patterns
   • For Autism evaluations, additional tools may include observational measures, social communication checklists, and adaptive functioning scales.
4. Behavioral Questionnaires
   • Parents, teachers, and/or the client complete rating forms to provide insight into daily functioning across settings.
5. Diagnostic Formulation
   • All results are integrated and interpreted to determine whether the individual meets criteria for diagnoses such as:

• • ADHD
  • Autism Spectrum Disorder
  • Anxiety
  • Mood Disorders
  • Other Mental Health concerns

1. Feedback Session
   • Findings are explained clearly during a follow-up appointment.
   • You’ll receive a written report with results, diagnoses (if applicable), and individualized recommendations.

How an Evaluation Can Benefit Individuals 

• Identifies whether difficulties are due to a mental health condition (e.g., anxiety, learning disorder).
• Offers tailored recommendations for academic accommodations (e.g., 504 Plan, IEP), behavioral strategies, and treatment options such as therapy or medication.
• Differentiates mental health disorders from other social, behavioral, or emotional concerns.
• Highlights strengths and challenges in communication, social interaction, and daily living skills.
• Informs access to services such as speech/language therapy, ABA, school-based supports, and social skills training.
• Supports eligibility for developmental disability services or insurance coverage for ASD treatment.