A comprehensive reading evaluation, often referred to as a “dyslexia” evaluation, begins with a cognitive (“IQ”) assessment in my practice. This is followed by assessments focused on reading and processing skills.
Essential underlying skills for reading are evaluated, including phonology (the ability to hear and manipulate sounds in words), orthography (memory of sequences of “irregular” letter patterns), and in some cases, attention and/or executive functioning.
Typically, I recommend a Psycho-Educational Assessment for this purpose, except when there's a need to “rule out” other educationally-related conditions as well. If multiple educational diagnoses need to be considered, a Pediatric Neuro-Cognitive Assessment might be more appropriate.
What Are The Warning Signs Of Dyslexia?
In cases of dyslexia, I often observe individuals struggling with reading, fluency, and spelling. There are other types of Specific Learning Disorders in reading that may not be dyslexia but result in limited reading skills and comprehension.
If school-based instruction and interventions have not been successful in building reading skills, it's a significant warning sign. Commonly, individuals with dyslexia have difficulty sounding out words (phonology) or remembering the sequence of letter patterns in irregular words (orthography).
Negative self-thoughts such as “I am not smart” or “I’m stupid” are common, often leading to learned helplessness, as these individuals may struggle regardless of their effort levels in reading.
When/Why Is This Evaluation Performed?
This evaluation is crucial to obtain necessary services and support, understand the individual’s learning profile and related needs, and acquire specific recommendations for growth. Each person is unique, and no two people with a Reading Disorder, such as dyslexia, or any other disability, are exactly alike. Therefore, a comprehensive assessment is instrumental in determining if the person has a learning-related need or diagnosis.
The concept of “neuroplasticity”, which refers to the brain's ability to form and strengthen neuronal connections, suggests that individuals with a disability in reading can typically make significant gains with appropriate interventions. A comprehensive assessment is pivotal in identifying the types of interventions required.
How Does the Evaluation Take Place? What Should I Expect? What Should I Expect After the Assessment?
The individual or parent can choose between a Psycho-Educational Assessment or a Pediatric Neuro-Cognitive (aka “School Neuro-Psych”) Evaluation. In my role, I guide the decision-making process regarding the recommended type of evaluation.
If the examinee is a child, I adhere to standard practices focusing on child safety, detailed in the section of this blog dedicated to child safety.
I offer these assessments and other related services out of my professional office located in Roseville, California. As a Licensed Educational Psychologist in the State of California, my practice is dedicated to providing insightful and comprehensive assessments and services to support the educational and developmental needs of my clients.