Psychological Evaluations: What to Know

Not all psychological evaluations are created equal.

A high-quality evaluation should do more than generate scores or check diagnostic boxes—it should offer insight, integration, and direction.

Dr. Stephanie’s approach emphasizes careful differential diagnosis, attention to developmental context, and respect for the complexity of each child. Evaluations are designed to clarify confusing or overlapping concerns, identify meaningful patterns, and support thoughtful next steps that are both clinically sound and practically useful.

Insurance and Payment Policy

Dr. Stephanie is committed to clear and ethical communication about how services are provided and billed.

Due to the structure of our insurance contracts, psychological evaluations are offered on a private-pay (self-pay) basis only for clients whose insurance plans are not accepted as in-network.

  • If your insurance is out of network with this practice (for example, Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield or Tricare), you may pursue an evaluation with us on a private-pay basis.
  • If your insurance is in network for therapy services (for example, United/Optum, Aetna, or Cigna), Dr. Stephanie is not able to provide evaluation services, even on a private-pay basis, due to contractual restrictions with those insurers.

Although testing services are private-pay, you may be able to receive some reimbursement from your insurance company, depending on your out-of-network benefits. A superbill (a detailed, itemized invoice) can be provided to you upon request, which you can submit to your insurance company for possible partial reimbursement.

Dr. Stephanie is always happy to help families explore referrals or alternative options within their insurance network when needed.

If you have questions about your specific situation, please feel free to reach out.

Evaluation Fee

The fee for a comprehensive psychological evaluation is $2,000.

This is a flat fee, regardless of your child’s age or the specific diagnostic questions being explored. The cost reflects the overall scope, time, and professional expertise involved in a thorough evaluation process, rather than a particular diagnosis or test label.

In the Louisville area, private-pay psychological evaluations vary widely depending on the depth of assessment provided. Fees may be lower for brief or screening-only evaluations and higher for full neuropsychological or academic testing batteries. This fee is consistent with comprehensive clinical evaluations that include in-depth history gathering, standardized assessment, careful integration of findings, a detailed written report, and individualized recommendations.

What this fee includes

  • Parent interview and developmental history
  • Time spent with your child for assessment
  • Selection of assessment measures tailored to referral questions
  • Scoring, interpretation, and integration of results
  • A comprehensive written report
  • Feedback and guidance regarding next steps

If, after the initial consultation phase, we determine that a full evaluation is not currently warranted, the process will stop at that point and you will only be charged for those initial sessions ($400 total).

If you have questions about whether an evaluation is the right next step for your child, Dr. Stephanie is happy to discuss this with you before proceeding.

Is an Evaluation Necessary?

It is not always clear whether a child’s differences or challenges warrant a full evaluation.

To help determine this, the process will begin with a comprehensive parent interview focused on developmental history and current concerns and time spent with your child in the office through conversation and play.

If, after the initial consultation phase, it is determined that a full evaluation is not currently warranted, the process will stop at that point and you will only be charged for those initial sessions ($400 total). Dr. Stephanie will provide guidance to you on appropriate next steps, if any.

What Does Testing Involve?

Testing time:
Most evaluations take approximately 3–4 hours of face-to-face time with the child, with breaks as needed, including a snack break.

Assessment measures:
Evaluations typically include:

  • A measure of cognitive functioning (such as the WISC-V or WPPSI-IV)
  • Questionnaires completed by parents, teachers, and often the child, assessing social, emotional, and adaptive functioning
  • When appropriate:
    • The ADOS-2 for autism assessment
    • A test of sustained attention when attentional concerns are present

Assessment tools are selected thoughtfully based on referral questions, age, and presenting concerns.

What Is Included in the Evaluation Report?

The written report generally includes:

  • A clear summary of referral concerns and evaluation questions
  • Relevant developmental, medical, educational, and family history
  • A description of assessment tools and methods used
  • An integrated understanding of your child’s strengths, challenges, and patterns
  • Diagnostic impressions when appropriate, based on current clinical standards
  • A neurodiversity-affirming explanation of findings in everyday language
  • Personalized recommendations for home, school, and other settings
  • Guidance on next steps and possible supports

What Are the Benefits of an Evaluation?

An evaluation brings together history, observation, and standardized testing to clarify patterns that are not always visible in daily life.

It can help distinguish between concerns that may look similar on the surface, such as ADHD, autism, anxiety, or typical developmental variation. Many parents find that a well-integrated evaluation allows them to move forward with greater clarity, confidence, and direction.

Do All Evaluations Result in a Diagnosis?

No. Some evaluations conclude that a child’s functioning falls within age-typical ranges.

Regardless of whether a diagnosis is made, families receive individualized recommendations to support their child’s development and well-being.

Are There Any Drawbacks to an Evaluation?

For some children, testing can be tiring or emotionally demanding, particularly when tasks feel challenging or unfamiliar. The process is designed to be as supportive and developmentally appropriate as possible, but it is normal for children to feel a bit worn out afterward.

There is also a time and financial investment to consider. For many families, the clarity and guidance gained outweigh these costs, but it is important to weigh this thoughtfully.

Age Ranges and Populations Served

  • Children and adolescents only: Ages 2–17 years
  • Autism evaluations: Beginning at age 2
  • ADHD evaluations: Typically beginning at age 6, with occasional exceptions depending on circumstances
Contact Dr. Stephanie to Schedule or Learn more