Kealoha Psychology, Inc.
Understanding Psychological Evaluations
A comprehensive Psychological Evaluation or Psychological Assessment utilizes clinical observation, assessment tools (i.e., standardized and
norm-referenced tests), and a combination of techniques and interventions to provide personalized recommendations for services or supports. A *DSM-5-TR diagnosis can also be made, where applicable.
Kealoha Psychology, Inc. offers a range of Psychological Evaluation services in San Diego based on your individual needs. Please see our evaluation descriptions below for additional information. Based on an individuals area(s) of need, one or more of the following evaluations below may be completed with individuals of any age as part of the personalized, comprehensive assessment. This may also be discussed with us by completing the "Get In Touch" form below to schedule a free phone consultation.
*Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Health Disorders, 5th Edition, Test Revision (DSM-5-TR)
ADHD
(Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder)
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a Neurodevelopmental Disorder that may impact an individual's attention, hyperactivity, impulsivity, or memory.
An ADHD evaluation will assess an individual's intellectual development and executive functioning, including their ability to plan, organize, maintain attention, and manage multiple tasks at once. The individual's activity level and distractibility as well as their performance and behaviors at school/work, home, and in social settings will also be considered when determining if criteria are met for ADHD and to determine appropriate supports. Our ADHD evaluations in Carlsbad can help to determine appropriate services across southern California, including in home, school, and community settings.
Autism Spectrum Disorder
Autism Spectrum Disorder is a complex neurodevelopmental condition that impacts various areas of development. An Autism Evaluation will assess an individual's social communication and interaction skills as well as their behaviors, needs, preferences, & overall functioning.
An individual's needs can range from mild to severe and differ across different skills. Our expert Autism evaluations in San Diego will assess the intellectual, adaptive, and social-emotional functioning of the individual to determine if Autism is present. Based on the findings of the evaluation, personalized recommendations for services and supports throughout southern California will be provided to address the specific needs and strengths of the individual.
Autism Speaks is a useful resource to learn more about Autism and the diagnosis formerly known as Asperger's Disorder.
Developmental EvaluationS
Developmental Evaluations are for children ages 5-years or younger. This specialized evaluation will assess whether a child is displaying delays in any area of their development, such as their language, intellectual, social-emotional, play, adaptive, or motor skills.
This evaluation may provide clarity regarding a Developmental Diagnosis, which may lead to referrals and qualification for Early Intervention Services. These services are available for qualifying children up to age 3, and our evaluation can be provided to California Early Start to assist in determining eligibility. Your child may also be eligible for additional services designed to help young children reach their full potential. These programs also offer parents invaluable training, insights, and support to help guide their child toward success. Our specialized Developmental Evaluations in San Diego will provide recommendations for suggested services throughout southern California based on the comprehensive findings of the evaluation.
Psychoeducational
Testing and Learning Disabilities
A Learning Ability Assessment can identify specific Learning Disabilities that may be impacting a child's academic development or ability to learn. Our Psychoeducational Testing in Carlsbad provides a comprehensive evaluation of a student’s cognitive and academic skills to help bridge the gap between their intelligence and academic performance.
Our learning ability assessments in San Diego evaluate the three types of learning disabilities identified in the DSM-5-TR: impairments in reading, written expression, and mathematics (Dyslexia, Dysgraphia, and Dyscalculia). By identifying a student’s unique strengths and needs, our Psychoeducational Evaluations help families determine the necessary school-based services, supports, and accommodations to assist their child. We also provide expert guidance on navigating the eligibility process for these services within San Diego school districts.
Behavioral, emotional,
& mental health evaluations
An individual's behavioral, emotional, and mental health can impact their overall functioning. For example, issues with anxiety may impair a student's ability to focus, while depression may lead to challenges with learning and memory.
We offer specialized Psychological Evaluations for social-emotional issues and behavioral concerns in San Diego. Our assessments are designed to identify specific needs and provide personalized recommendations for individuals facing challenges with self-regulation, relationships issues, behavioral concerns, negative thinking, or increased stress. Our goal is to connect you with appropriate services to promote overall well-being and provide relief. If you are seeking a social-emotional or behavioral evaluation in San Diego to better support your child or address behavioral concerns, please contact us for a free phone consultation.
Gifted & talented testing or "Twice Exceptional" Testing
Most evaluations begin with intellectual development testing using a standardized assessment tool, commonly referred to as an "IQ test." These assessments evaluate cognitive and intellectual functioning across various domains, including verbal comprehension, spatial reasoning, memory, learning, problem solving, and logic. This information helps us understand why a child may be struggling or the best ways we can support them.
Gifted and talented students demonstrate exceptional abilities in areas such as intellect, creativity, or artistry, often exhibiting advanced reading and writing skills alongside a strong motivation to learn. IQ tests are frequently used to identify these individuals to determine if they might benefit from advanced programs or accelerated curricula. Twice-exceptional (or "2e") students are gifted in some areas but face challenges in others. For example, a 2e student might excel in music or mathematics but struggle with leadership, social interactions, reading, executive functioning, organization, or perfectionism. This asynchronous development can result in an uneven learning profile. Our specialized evaluations of children and teens in Carlsbad assesses various domains of cognitive and developmental progress. Based on the results, we provide personalized recommendations on how to leverage an individual's strengths to support their growth and learning in areas where they need additional assistance.
Independent Educational Evaluation
(IEE)
A parent of a child with a disability has the right to obtain an IEE if the family disagrees with the evaluation completed by the School District. An Independent Educational Evaluation is conducted by an independent evaluator who is not employed by the school district. The IEE may be funded by the school district.
A parent or caregiver may request an IEE to assess additional areas of concern not covered in the school’s evaluation, obtain a second opinion on the child’s diagnosis or educational needs, or ensure the child’s IEP is based on accurate and comprehensive information. The results of an IEE may assist with determining educational placement or the most appropriate school-based services, supports, and/or accommodations for the child. Dr. Kealoha is included on the IEE Preferred Provider List for school districts throughout San Diego. If you had an evaluation completed by your child's school and have questions or concerns regarding the results, contact us to discuss how we can provide you with specialized support.
Professional ConsultationS:
E.g., Review of IEPs, Treatment Plan
Professional consultations help families and caregivers better understand a loved one’s needs, navigate care options, and learn to provide personalized support. These services may include diagnostic clarification, clinical recommendations for treatment plans, or support with navigating complex care needs.
Diagnostic Evaluations
Our expert Psychological Evaluations in San Diego may provide clarity regarding a DSM-5-TR diagnosis. The results of our specialized assessments can be used to assist with obtaining or maintaining services throughout southern California, developing personalized school or work accommodations, supporting evidence-based treatment planning, or providing documentation to advocate for an individual's request for services.
The symptoms defining each diagnosis are detailed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5-TR), published by the American Psychiatric Association. This manual is used by medical and mental health professionals to diagnose and by insurance companies to reimburse for evidence-based treatment. Our specialized Psychological Testing services in San Diego are designed to provide an accurate diagnosis. By taking the time and effort to identify your or your loved one's specific needs, we can work with you to determine the best evidence-based treatment approach. Having this information will better prepare you to work with professionals to address the identified areas of need while fostering an individual's personal strengths. We work with specialists throughout southern California to connect you with the most appropriate provider based on your or your loved one's specific needs. The Mayo Clinic is a useful resource for learning about DSM-5-TR diagnoses and their evidence-based treatments (https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/mental-illness/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20374974).
Accommodation Requests
If you are seeking workplace accommodations in San Diego or accommodations for your child at school, our evaluations may assist in developing personalized accommodation plans targeted to your or your loved one's individual needs. Many testing boards (e.g., SAT, LSAT, MCAT) require an evaluation in order to be considered for accommodations.
Our Accommodations Assessments in San Diego may provide formal documentation of a diagnosed condition, such as ADHD, learning disabilities, or anxiety, and detail how these conditions functionally limit daily activities in work or school. Our expert evaluations in Carlsbad can be used to support work or school accommodation requests by identifying specific strengths and weaknesses and recommending tailored support, such as extended time, alternate testing environments, or modified schedules, in compliance with the ADA or Section 504. Our accommodations assessments and plans have been used to help our clients reach their full potential at school or work.
Adult Evaluations for Neurodevelopmental Disorders
Neurodevelopmental Disorder are conditions that typically develop in childhood, such as Autism, ADHD, Intellectual and Learning Disabilities, and Communication Disorders. We complete Neurodevelopmental Disorder evaluations of adults for these conditions. These evaluations may clarify a diagnosis, provide suggestions for accommodations at work or school, and support insurance coverage for services.
Because Neurodevelopmental Disorders are typically present during childhood, this type of expert evaluation of adults requires specialized training to identify these conditions in adults or other "high functioning" individuals. Â Our specialized Neurodevelopmental Disorder evaluations in San Diego may assess for conditions such as ADHD, Autism, Learning Disorders, or Intellectual Disabilities in adults and children.