Where are you located?
I am currently sharing office space with a mental health counselor located in the Harbor Bend office complex in Longwood. The entrance to the office is located directly across from the entrance to the Oak Grove Shoppes near the Broadway Pizza on 434 in Longwood (on the west side of 434).
- 2989 W State Rd 434, Suite 500, Longwood, FL 32779
When you turn into the Harbor Bend complex, drive straight and then turn left at the dumpster, taking the road all the way around to the last unit. There is parking parallel to the wall on your right and the office is the unit on the corner. The door says “Petey Burnett, Sally McCall, and Sarah Burnett” on the outside, which are the counselors I share with.
How long does an evaluation take?
The testing typically takes between 2-5 hours, depending on the amount of testing that needs to be completed and the age of your child. Gifted testing typically takes up to two hours total. In general, testing for young children takes less time than testing for older children and adolescents. All testing is completed with the examiner and the child. If parents are waiting in the car, feel free to bring a book or device to keep you busy while you wait. There are a number of nearby stores and restaurants if you feel like slipping out for a bit. An idea of the time involved in testing will be provided at your initial appointment. Your child will be given frequent breaks to rest and relax between tasks.
How much does an evaluation cost?
The cost depends on the unique needs of your child, with prices varying anywhere from $400 to $1500. At this time, Psychological Essentials, LLC is not paneled with insurance companies and parents/guardians are responsible for all expenses. However, many insurance companies do not cover the cost of psychoeducational evaluations and if they do, they only cover a small portion. A receipt of expenses can be provided as requested. Please contact us for a consultation and a free quote. At this time, cash, check, Venmo, and PayPal are acceptable forms of payment.
How soon will I receive a written report after the evaluation?
The entire process from the initial intake appointment to receiving results and a written report typically takes around 2-4 weeks. In some cases, teachers or parents take longer than expected to complete rating scales or issues arise in scheduling. In these cases, it may take longer for the evaluation to be completed. Gifted evaluation reports are typically sent out within the week of initial appointment.
What should I tell my child about the evaluation process?
If you have a younger child, let them know that they will be working with a “teacher” or “school helper” and playing different games and doing fun activities. For older children, you can explain that they are working with a specialist that helps children with school and learning – she will be figuring out how students learn best, and how to help them in school. I would refrain from using the word ‘test’ to reduce any anxiety that may arise, as these assessments are different than what students see in school.
On the day of testing, try to make sure your child has had a good night’s rest, has eaten breakfast, and brings along any glasses, hearing aids, communication devices, etc. If you child typically takes medication, make sure that they take their medication prior to the appointment. Many parents want specialists to see their child’s true behaviors; however, not taking medication that they typically take could negatively impact other areas and result in an underestimate of their true abilities on intellectual or academic tests.
Psychological Essentials, LLC 