The ultimate goal of comprehensive assessment is to conduct an in-depth evaluation of an individual’s cognitive, achievement, and emotional abilities. This thorough investigation aims to uncover both strengths and challenges, providing a clearer picture of the individual's unique capabilities. By gaining insight into these areas, the assessment process aids in identifying the most effective supports tailored to the individual's needs. As a result, appropriate academic or workplace accommodations can be implemented, fostering an environment where the individual can thrive. Honoring their neurodivergent identity is crucial, as it encourages self-acceptance and personal growth, enabling them to reach their full potential in both learning and professional contexts.

With the help of a thorough neuropsychological evaluation, our team will build a compelling case for the right accommodations and treatment recommendations to help you reach your full potential and improve your quality of life.

Richelle Stackert, PhD

Sydney Majka, MA

Frequently Asked Questions

WHAT CAN I EXPECT FROM A COMPREHENSIVE PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT WITH DR. STACKERT?

While there is variability in testing depending on the specific purpose, a comprehensive neuropsychological assessment will usually include the following:

• a diagnostic interview and records review to get background and history

• a thorough testing process, approximately two 3-4 hour sessions depending on pace and the nature of the disability

• a 1 hour feedback session to discuss results and recommendations

• an individualized testing report clearly documenting the diagnosis and the need for interventions and academic accommodations

If you have had psychological testing in the past, Dr. Stackert will need a copy of those reports to review and integrate into the current assessment.

WHY DOES THE ASSESSMENT NEED TO BE SO INVOLVED?

When post-secondary institutions and exam boards are considering whether to allow accommodations, they require a complex set of guidelines to be followed. This includes a comprehensive neuropsychological assessment (also referred to as a psychoeducational assessment) in which specific tests must be administered and reported in a particular format. This report must include specific information about how your diagnosis both historically and currently affects your ability to function within the academic or work setting and rule out other possible sources for occurring symptoms. If these guidelines are not followed, the educational or testing institution will reject the request for accommodations. A letter from your therapist or doctor is not adequate.

The value of a comprehensive approach to neuropsychological assessment is that it identifies and explains diagnostically and functionally the strengths and challenges of the individual and provides a thorough, realistic plan for addressing the problem(s) through interventions and academic accommodations.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN NEUROPSYCHOLOGICAL AND PSYCHOLOGICAL EVALUATIONS?

Typically, a standard psychological evaluation assesses general cognitive and personality functioning with the aim of diagnosing psychiatric conditions. Neuropsychological evaluation is more comprehensive in scope. Neuropsychology integrates genetic, developmental, and environmental history with detailed assessment of cognitive processes to better understand brain functioning.

To understand cognitive strengths and weaknesses, neuropsychological evaluation typically includes:

• Intellectual skills

• Academic skills

• Alertness and attention

• Auditory and visual processing

• Motor skills

• Executive functions, problem-solving skills, and reasoning abilities

• Language skills

• Visuospatial skills

• Learning and memory

• Emotional and personality development

WHAT TYPES OF ACCOMMODATIONS ARE OFFERED BY POSTSECONDARY EDUCATIONAL AND TESTING INSTITUTIONS?

Based on diagnosis, typical accommodations can include (but are not limited to):

Testing Accommodations:

• Extended time (50% to 100%)

• Individual or small group testing

• Extra breaks

• Laptop computer for writing

• Calculator

• Scribe

• Alternate examination format

• Reader/audio format/use of computer technology

Classroom Accommodations:

• Textbooks in audio format

• Preferential seating in front of class

• Permission to record lectures

• Note-taker

• Copies of the professor's presentation notes ahead of time

• Proofreading assistance

• Flexible deadlines

• Reduced course load without loss of full-time status

• Additional leaves of absence

• Extended timeline to graduation

WHAT TYPES OF ACCOMMODATIONS CAN I REQUEST IN THE WORKPLACE?

Workplace accommodations are recommended based on specific areas of impairment or challenge. Some examples include (but are not limited to):

• Assignment of only one project at a time and assistance breaking them into smaller pieces (e.g., task separation)

• Task instructions and assignments in writing (e.g., task flow chart)

• Checklists and visual reminders (e.g., color-coded outlines)

• Clearly established deadlines

• Use of timers, watches, wall calendars, planners, bulletin board or white board

• Notes taken by coworker or administrative assistant

• Individual office or consistent workspace reasonably free from distraction (e.g., cubicle doors or shields, white noise makers, headphones)

• Ability to work remotely from home when reasonable

HOW DOES THE TIMING WORK?

There is typically a 4-5 month wait for an appointment, though your name will be added to a waitlist should an earlier date become available. The testing is completed over two days, usually within the same week or two. Next, there is a virtual history session within the next two weeks followed by a virtual feedback session scheduled three weeks from the time of testing completion. It often takes an additional 10-12 weeks to receive the full written report, but a summary of test scores and diagnostic conclusions can be provided in the meantime to help facilitate the process of acquiring accommodations or beginning medication.

HOW MUCH DOES A COMPREHENSIVE PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT COST?

$4000 -- For insurance coverage, the two main factors that impact out-of-pocket expenses are 1) what percentage you are responsible for (i.e., coinsurance) and 2) whether or not your deductible applies to the cost of testing and whether or not it has been met.

WHAT METHODS OF PAYMENT ARE ACCEPTED?

Our practice accepts Zelle (rstackert@gmail.com) or major credit cards. If using insurance, your carrier will be billed at time of feedback, and the full testing report will be released after any remaining balance is paid. If paying out-of-pocket, testing fees are divided into two payments: the first half is due at the initial appointment, and the second half is due on the day of feedback.

DO YOU ACCEPT INSURANCE?

Dr. Stackert is a provider for BC/BS of IL, Aetna, Cigna, United Healthcare, and Optum. For out-of-network insurance carriers, the client is responsible for paying the fees at the time of service. Our practice can provide a super bill to submit if the individual wants to pursue reimbursement from the insurance carrier. Many of the testing services offered by our practice may be covered by your insurance policy.

FOR WHAT AGE DOES DR. STACKERT COMPLETE EVALUATIONS?

Testing is available for individuals aged 16 and older. This is due to the restrictions of the testing instruments that are utilized. If your child is under the age of 16, please seek alternative testing options that are specifically designed for younger individuals.

WHAT IS YOUR CANCELATION POLICY?

Please provide at least 24 hour notice regarding cancellations to avoid being charged for that time.

Contact Dr. Stackert Today for an Appointment for a Comprehensive Neuropsychological Evaluation

Call, text, or complete this form!

Contacts

773-217-8415
rstackert@gmail.com

Address

1525 E 53rd St, Ste 516-5

Chicago, IL 60615

Please note: Testing is only available for individuals age 16 or older.

office location: 1525 E 53rd st, ste 561-5, chicago, il 60615