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I got the go ahead from dh to pursue a neuro-psych eval for ds9


Soror
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Hi, I have been following this thread for a while and just wanted to wish you good luck with the process. My oldest ds is going through testing right now with his last appointment this week. We should get the results (verbally) the following week if all goes well. They will send us a written report a few weeks after that. I completely understand how nervous, sad, anxious you are.

 

All the best.

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Thank you texasmom and agarnett. I wish you luck agarnett. I hope that it is a positive experience for you. I'll be interested to hear how it goes for you if you want to share.

 

I told my friend today that I'm sure for the next month I know I'm going to be totally worried about it all. I know it doesn't change the reality but merely names it.

 

Can I ask a favor of the ladies here?

 

Can you guys give me ideas of what other things I should be researching? Worst case scenarios based on symptoms? I don't do well with being surprised and don't want to go into this and be totally blindsided. I'm leaning towards dyslexia but then again I could be totally wrong due to my ignorance. I feel accepting with this. It doesn't scare me but I don't know what all else it could be and that is rather terrifying. I think I'll also be better able to ask appropriate questions if I am better informed. Please give me heads up!!

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I read through your posts on this thread, soror, and I don't have any specific feedback regarding things to research.  Your son may have a specific, easily-identified issue or he may be harder to pin down like my son.  In some ways, it would be "easier" (not the best word) if I had a specific label for my son.  The only specific label I have ever received that really fit was Sensory Processing Disorder. 

 

I would gently encourage you to not spend too much time and energy researching the possibilities because (in my experience) that tends to increase anxiety.  I know how difficult that is, and how interminable the wait can be. 

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I appreciate your time and thoughts texasmama! I can understand the thought of wanting a specific label, as odd as it sounds. We don't want them to struggle at all but having a name to explain it seems oddly comforting. Knowing that the struggle is real and there for a reason.

 

I'm trying not to worry or be anxious but as it goes I think it would be entirely impossible to completely avoid it. I just don't want to be surprised out of left field. I know myself and if she comes up w/ something I've never heard of or considerably worse than I've heard or thought about then I will be utterly unable to ask any constructive questions at all and I really don't want to waste the time of the feedback session in shock. I need time to integrate the possibilities so I can use that time to move forward w/ the solutions and plan of action, accommodate, therapy and/or remediation.

 

It is hard whenever you have to rely on someone else to help. I am just without the answers myself and I know to move forward I need more info.

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I made myself crazy before our eval researching the possibilities. They can all present very similarly. I agree with TexasMama that the best you can do is keep doing what works and just go for the eval. I wish there was a better response, but some of what I anticipated was right, and some labels I thought might be considered were not so it is going to be a surprise no matter what you do. :)

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Sounds like a good experience and a great psych!  That's terrific how long her reports are and how detailed her recommendations are.  I only got 6 pages.  I'm jealous.   :)

 

Our neuropsych reports have been 37 and 39 pages.  That's the difference between a comprehensive evaluation with highly usable feedback and a basic report.  Our NP's report reads like a book on how to teach our DS.. Right down to.. "When he needs to memorize facts, do it this way.." "When he has to take a test, do it this way.." "When he's learning spelling, do it this way.." etc.  The report was worth its weight in gold for providing a viable education!! ;-)

 

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I'm trying not to worry or be anxious but as it goes I think it would be entirely impossible to completely avoid it. I just don't want to be surprised out of left field. I know myself and if she comes up w/ something I've never heard of or considerably worse than I've heard or thought about then I will be utterly unable to ask any constructive questions at all and I really don't want to waste the time of the feedback session in shock. I need time to integrate the possibilities so I can use that time to move forward w/ the solutions and plan of action, accommodate, therapy and/or remediation.

 

Because you said this.. And with walking countless other parents through the seeking--getting--interpreting a comprehensive evaluation, I'll tell you the most shocking thing some of the parents have received as a diagnosis--not expecting it at all is Asperger's Syndrome.  I'm by NO MEANS WHATSOEVER suggesting this is what your child may have, but only saying that it is one diagnosis a lot of people don't ever consider, but when they receive it, it feels like a double-edged sword.  In once sense it is so unexpected, the parent is pained by hearing that, but then when they come home and really research it, and learn all of the delightful nuances of the personalities of children with Asperger's they often have that-- THAT's IT!! revelation! 

 

Kids with Asperger's are highly intelligent in their areas of strength, they're often articulate, but they also can have executive function issues that affect their social interactions (difficulty reading body language, for example).  While I've got several mom-friends now whose children have been diagnosed with Asperger's, every one of them has grown into an academically successful young adult with the right kinds of educational support and services. 

 

While your child may or may not fit an Asperger's diagnosis, if you're aware it's a possibility, then you can put your mind at ease ahead of time and know--it's all going to be okay!! 

 

It'll all be okay anyway because you are seeking answers and going after solutions. Being a pro-active mom, your child will be OKAY. 

 

Hope all goes well with the testing!

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Because you said this.. And with walking countless other parents through the seeking--getting--interpreting a comprehensive evaluation, I'll tell you the most shocking thing some of the parents have received as a diagnosis--not expecting it at all is Asperger's Syndrome.  I'm by NO MEANS WHATSOEVER suggesting this is what your child may have, but only saying that it is one diagnosis a lot of people don't ever consider, but when they receive it, it feels like a double-edged sword.  In once sense it is so unexpected, the parent is pained by hearing that, but then when they come home and really research it, and learn all of the delightful nuances of the personalities of children with Asperger's they often have that-- THAT's IT!! revelation! 

 

Kids with Asperger's are highly intelligent in their areas of strength, they're often articulate, but they also can have executive function issues that affect their social interactions (difficulty reading body language, for example).  While I've got several mom-friends now whose children have been diagnosed with Asperger's, every one of them has grown into an academically successful young adult with the right kinds of educational support and services. 

 

While your child may or may not fit an Asperger's diagnosis, if you're aware it's a possibility, then you can put your mind at ease ahead of time and know--it's all going to be okay!! 

 

It'll all be okay anyway because you are seeking answers and going after solutions. Being a pro-active mom, your child will be OKAY. 

 

Hope all goes well with the testing!

 

I've been hearing of cases like this, with both the parents and the specialists they've been dealing with surprised at the eventual diagnosis. My suspicion is that there can be Asperger-like traits and the person that diagnoses decides on a dx because it's the best way to ensure a child will get services.

 

soror, don't worry. I don't think there will be any huge surprises, just confirmations of issues that you've already been dealing with. They may have a cause you didn't consider, but I doubt it's going to be an enormous thing. You might just get a pattern of strengths and weaknesses without a label. :)

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Because you said this.. And with walking countless other parents through the seeking--getting--interpreting a comprehensive evaluation, I'll tell you the most shocking thing some of the parents have received as a diagnosis--not expecting it at all is Asperger's Syndrome. I'm by NO MEANS WHATSOEVER suggesting this is what your child may have, but only saying that it is one diagnosis a lot of people don't ever consider, but when they receive it, it feels like a double-edged sword. In once sense it is so unexpected, the parent is pained by hearing that, but then when they come home and really research it, and learn all of the delightful nuances of the personalities of children with Asperger's they often have that-- THAT's IT!! revelation!

 

Kids with Asperger's are highly intelligent in their areas of strength, they're often articulate, but they also can have executive function issues that affect their social interactions (difficulty reading body language, for example). While I've got several mom-friends now whose children have been diagnosed with Asperger's, every one of them has grown into an academically successful young adult with the right kinds of educational support and services.

 

 

 

While your child may or may not fit an Asperger's diagnosis, if you're aware it's a possibility, then you can put your mind at ease ahead of time and know--it's all going to be okay!!

 

 

It'll all be okay anyway because you are seeking answers and going after solutions. Being a pro-active mom, your child will be OKAY.

 

Hope all goes well with the testing!

Hi, I feel the same way as you do. I am worried sick about what the evaluation will bring and have researched myself silly about the possibilities. When we first had our initial intake session with the NP she did say that the way I am describing my sons strengths and weaknesses leaves her to believe there may be a non-verbal learning weakness. She went on to say that she will do a comprehensive eval and look at all possibilities. When I first contacted her I believed my son may be struggling with dysgraphia, dyslexia, and possibly ADHD. I have never thought is was something more pervasive like NLD or Aspergers but I am preparing myself that it might be.

 

So far my son has been there for 3 sessions all 1.5 hours and he will finish with a 2 hour session this week. So her testing in total will be almost 7 hours. She has done the WISC 4 (I. Q), the Woodcock Johnson (not sure if it is the cog or achievement) and I think will be doing the ADOS this week ( I think this is related to testing for Autism). The NP has also had me complete three different questionnaires (BASC, SRS, and another one related to ADHD I think).

 

So to answer your question, I think it is hard to prepare yourself but I found reading the book, The Mislabeled Child, helped me realize that there are many possibilities based on his strengths and weaknesses and I am somewhat prepared to hear the results after reading about them all.

 

Let us know how you make out.

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Thank you ladies, I'm feeling much better. Well, Asperger's would be a bit of a shock yes as he seems to be well within normal range in his social skills to me. Thank you for mentioning it Sandy. I have to say as well that I don't know about adhd. I know he has some symptoms but when we are out and about he doesn't stand out as having more issues with attention than others. I don't see those kids in a classroom though or at home. So in a way adhd would be a surprise and not a surprise. I guess it will be what it is. I wonder about medication and adhd, that thought troubles me some. However, he is still the same kid we will just have (or not have) a name for some of our 'issues.' I know I'm lucky that I don't have to wait longer. Hopefully I can get a copy of the report beforehand, that sounds like a great idea.

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agarnett- I was typing as you was posting. I have read mislabeled child but it has been a while, I was considering trying to get it again beforehand. As of now the NP doesn't have any Autism/Asperger's testing on the docket as she didn't think that his info warranted it, although I believe that if she sees anything related then we will be doing extra testing in this area.

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agarnett- I was typing as you was posting. I have read mislabeled child but it has been a while, I was considering trying to get it again beforehand. As of now the NP doesn't have any Autism/Asperger's testing on the docket as she didn't think that his info warranted it, although I believe that if she sees anything related then we will be doing extra testing in this area.

 

You know, it's always a GREAT sign when the NP does testing over multiple sessions and adjusts testing along the way as she sees signs of possible avenues of diagnosis.  It's like on our second day of testing, our NP said he was going to do a third day of testing because there were things he wanted to explore more deeply.  It was interesting because he was exploring some strengths to see "where the ceiling is" and my DS has virtually a perfect image-memory.  It's not the same as a photographic memory, but when DS sees images (picture-based), he can remember almost every detail of the image.  He had the "Rey Osterrieth Complex Figure Test" and reproduced the image almost perfectly in proportion and every detail with the exception of two very minor strokes being somewhat off of original placement. That made it very CLEAR to us that visual learning was a FABULOUS way to go for DS.. Any concept put into an image-based form helped him immensely.  SO, you may find out things like this--keys to learning, as much as any diagnosis, are important for knowing how to teach your DS. ;-) 

 

I should add.. The reproduction was over both the short and long delay periods with virtually no loss of clarity in DS' drawing. ;-)

 

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That is very neat Sandy! I don't think ds has any strengths like that. He seems to be pretty good at remembering what he hears but I'm not expecting anything like that, now that would be a surprise! We are scheduled to do 2 days testing but she said she will see how it goes and we might have to break into more sessions. I'm hoping it goes well enough to keep it to 2 sessions considering the distance we're driving BUT I'd rather get accurate results.

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I don't think ds has any strengths like that. He seems to be pretty good at remembering what he hears but I'm not expecting anything like that, now that would be a surprise!

You NEVER know!! I certainly didn't expect my DS' visual memory to be at a level higher than the NP had every seen before, but he said that it was extremely rare for a person to be able to reproduce the drawing with the level of perfection and detail that DS had.  So.. you may (or may not) have something that is a surprising, outstanding ability, but whatever strengths you find out--you WILL be able to capitalize on them.  Truly, we did not have a clue our DS had such a strong visual memory prior to the testing, and it was like a gift at Christmas time for us to unwrap that ability. ;-)  It'll be exciting to find out how your DS' mind works--they're each unique, gifted with strengths and weaknesses, and fun to puzzle out--at least for me.. I find it fun figuring out how to teach and reach the kids.. And oh, so awesome when things start to connect and flow more easily!

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I've been hearing of cases like this, with both the parents and the specialists they've been dealing with surprised at the eventual diagnosis. My suspicion is that there can be Asperger-like traits and the person that diagnoses decides on a dx because it's the best way to ensure a child will get services.

 

I don't want you to think I am offended by your statement because you might see this strategy as a failure of the DSM/a legitimate way for folks to be helped when no diagnosis fits well, but I do hope that it doesn't give people a reason to doubt a legitimate diagnosis (or possible diagnosis). It can be hard enough to convince people that your quirky but bright kid needs an assessment, and having people think that the diagnosis process is rigged won't help explain things to relatives, teachers, etc.

 

It's a subjective diagnosis to some extent. After all, the saying goes, "if you've met one kid with Asperger's, you've met one kid with Asperger's" because there are so many outlying quirks that "could be" Asperger's or could be quirks. I may be misquoting here, but I think it's Tony Attwood that says Asperger's traits are found in the neurotypical population as well, so it's about frequency, level of impairment, how many quirks in one person, etc. I think people are more aware of what Asperger's is and the range of possible symptoms that go with it, which leads to better diagnosis. Some professionals are realizing that Asperger's really does explain some of the multiple labels kids receive better than a cluster of labels (ADHD, SPD, OCD, etc.) In my son's case, he's presenting with more symptoms over time as social and academic demands increase (while having been quirky since day one). I've heard this is common with Aspie's who are particularly bright or 2e.

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I don't want you to think I am offended by your statement because you might see this strategy as a failure of the DSM/a legitimate way for folks to be helped when no diagnosis fits well, but I do hope that it doesn't give people a reason to doubt a legitimate diagnosis (or possible diagnosis).

It's a subjective diagnosis to some extent. After all, the saying goes, "if you've met one kid with Asperger's, you've met one kid with Asperger's" because there are so many outlying quirks that "could be" Asperger's or could be quirks. I may be misquoting here, but I think it's Tony Attwood that says Asperger's traits are found in the neurotypical population as well, so it's about frequency, level of impairment, how many quirks in one person, etc. I think people are more aware of what Asperger's is and the range of possible symptoms that go with it, which leads to better diagnosis. Some professionals are realizing that Asperger's really does explain some of the multiple labels kids receive better than a cluster of labels (ADHD, SPD, OCD, etc.) In my son's case, he's presenting with more symptoms over time as social and academic demands increase (while having been quirky since day one). I've heard this is common with Aspie's who are particularly bright or 2e.

 

Thank you for bringing this up. You make very good points. I would not in anyway want to dissuade any parents from seeking an explanation for their dc's difficulties. I hope that no one reading these boards as we discuss the intricacies of dealing with learning challenges and special needs would use anything I've said as an excuse not to pursue an evaluation. 

 

At the same time, I'd like to emphasize there's nothing wrong with parents questioning a diagnosis once they've start the process of looking into things, and I know you're not excluding that. Sometimes we just need to educate ourselves more to be convinced. We may even need a second opinion to be fully convinced or to find a better explanation, which is different from simply denying anything is wrong. And as you mention, things change over time and require a new eval. Sometimes things get better with maturity but can get worse with increasing demands 

 

 It can be hard enough to convince people that your quirky but bright kid needs an assessment, and having people think that the diagnosis process is rigged won't help explain things to relatives, teachers, etc.

 
I think the point here is not that the diagnosis process is rigged as much as there are some very legitimate difficulties that don't fit into a neat category. It doesn't mean they aren't real or debilitating. Even with the most legitimate dx some people will still deny it. I understand that frustration. I can see how my mom's view of SPD changed dramatically from having seen it as a distance with one older child ("She's just going to have to get with the program!") and close up with a younger one with whom she now does school work on the trampoline and play set. But I think (hope?) that most specialists do the best they can for the child given what they have to deal with. There are cases when specialists don't give a dx because it won't help a child and judge it's better not to have on their record, as well as cases where they emphasize things in order for a child who needs services to qualify. We've seen both cases in our dc but we're not on the spectrum, as far as we know. ;)
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Can I ask a favor of the ladies here?

 

Can you guys give me ideas of what other things I should be researching? Worst case scenarios based on symptoms? I don't do well with being surprised and don't want to go into this and be totally blindsided. I'm leaning towards dyslexia but then again I could be totally wrong due to my ignorance. I feel accepting with this. It doesn't scare me but I don't know what all else it could be and that is rather terrifying. I think I'll also be better able to ask appropriate questions if I am better informed. Please give me heads up!!

 

I have been following this thread, as we will be doing neuropsych testing early next year.

 

I don't know if I should share this or not, but our 'worst case scenario' ended up being that our child did indeed suffer a brain injury as a result of his premature birth. It was truly worst case possible. But even then, we weren't totally blindsided by the diagnosis. We both had known something was going on but we couldn't put a finger on what it was. And the doctors certainly weren't any help. Knowing what we are dealing with and being able to name it is powerful. Yes, it has been rough. I have had days, weeks, that I haven't been able to deal with the reality of the diagnosis. But I also know it isn't the end of the world and it doesn't change the wonderful person my son is.

 

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Carol Reynolds (of Discovering Music, awesome program and awesome lady!) said that colleges are improving their student services, making them more hip.  Apparently at SMU they did a $$$$  renovation and put in leather couches, etc., so it's the hip place to be!  

 

CR spoke at my homeschool group last year. She is so motivating and such an engaging speaker. We will be using her "Exploring America's Musical Heritage" this winter and I am really looking forward to it.

 

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Thank you for sharing GoVanGogh. I hope that testing is a positive experience for you. Hearing others stories is helpful, even if it is not my own, the emotions and process is still yet similar. You're right it doesn't change the reality and knowledge is power.

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There are cases when specialists don't give a dx because it won't help a child and judge it's better not to have on their record, as well as cases where they emphasize things in order for a child who needs services to qualify. We've seen both cases in our dc but we're not on the spectrum, as far as we know. ;)

 

 

I thought this was probably what you were driving at. Glad to know that we're basically looking at the same thing but from different angles.

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You NEVER know!! I certainly didn't expect my DS' visual memory to be at a level higher than the NP had every seen before, but he said that it was extremely rare for a person to be able to reproduce the drawing with the level of perfection and detail that DS had. So.. you may (or may not) have something that is a surprising, outstanding ability, but whatever strengths you find out--you WILL be able to capitalize on them. Truly, we did not have a clue our DS had such a strong visual memory prior to the testing, and it was like a gift at Christmas time for us to unwrap that ability. ;-) It'll be exciting to find out how your DS' mind works--they're each unique, gifted with strengths and weaknesses, and fun to puzzle out--at least for me.. I find it fun figuring out how to teach and reach the kids.. And oh, so awesome when things start to connect and flow more easily!

This post made me chuckle. Last week at my ds NP appointment (third of four, last one is tomorrow) they were administering the math reasoning section of the test. When they were done, the NP came out and told me that he did remarkable on that section. She said it in passing at the time while she was getting him a drink but it surprised me because he struggles SO much at home with math.

 

I asked her about this at the end of the session once my son had gone out into the hallway and she said that on the math reasoning section, when she was able to read the questions out loud to him, he scored above a grade 7 level ( he is in gr. 4). She said he never once wrote anything down but just figured out the answer in his head each time. She thinks he struggles much more in the mechanical aspects of math ( writing things down, lining things up correctly, etc.).

 

I was shocked to hear this given his struggles with math at home. I know he really struggles with some things and am anxious to hear what her report says overall, but I was so thrilled to hear he also did really well in one of the areas. So it is true, these assessments can really help you understand strengths as well as weaknesses.

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We finished the testing this weekend. We are going back a week from Friday for the results. Ds seemed to do ok with the testing. I tried to ask the NP what tests they had done so far Sat but she said that would be double the work and I'd get that info in the results. I really dislike the NP but I'm hoping that the results session goes well and is informative.

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We finished the testing this weekend. We are going back a week from Friday for the results. Ds seemed to do ok with the testing. I tried to ask the NP what tests they had done so far Sat but she said that would be double the work and I'd get that info in the results. I really dislike the NP but I'm hoping that the results session goes well and is informative.

I am so sorry the NP was so dismissive when you asked about the testing so far. I don't think it is unreasonable to ask what tests they are running at all.

 

The NP we are working with didn't tell us what tests they were running either but her assistant told me when I was asking questions from the other room (I watched everything from a t.v. monitor in another room). Our NP also has not wanted to tell us much as far as what she is seeing along the way. I suspect she wants to father all the info first. She did tell me how he was doing generally when I asked her ( she said he did really well in one math section and really struggled in the grammar section) but without much detail.

 

We get our results next Thursday so we are on a very similar timeframe. Good Luck.

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Soror, the NP should have given you a verbal listing of the tests and what they measure.  I agree that it was dismissive to not do so. If any of us went to the doctor, we would ask what tests were being done, and the doctor would tell us, after all.  I'm sorry.  You will likely still get very helpful results, which is the ultimate goal.  I'm sorry you were treated dismissively, though.

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I'm really hoping her site and reviews were right and it is very comprehensive. She has been short every time she has spoke to me though. I think it is partly personality, she doesn't naturally seem to have a very engaging personality, she is very clinical. I personally liked the first guy I talked to much, much more he was more engaging, although it seems she is more knowledgeable. Anyway, I'm trying not to worry about it. From everything I've read it seems she will give me what I want/need but she doesn't seem like one which I will be coming back to for any treatment at this point. Perhaps my view will change during the assessment. If I was to rate her up until this point it would not be very highly at all but I'm trying to reserve judgement. If her reports are as detailed as she says they should be very helpful.

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I hope your right Elizabeth and that makes me feel better to hear. I told dh I'm going to pretty p'od if we pay all this money and it isn't super informative. I'll be stalking all the patient websites and leaving bad reviews. Anway, trying not to dwell on the negative though and assume the best. It is hard when you have nothing to go on.

 

Here is a weird question, ds asked us last night if we heard voices that other people didn't hear and we're like no, do you? He said no but they asked him that during his tests. He thought that was kind of weird. What kind of test would have that question?

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Here is a weird question, ds asked us last night if we heard voices that other people didn't hear and we're like no, do you? He said no but they asked him that during his tests. He thought that was kind of weird. What kind of test would have that question?

My turning 9 son and I have supersensitive hearing and sensory issues. We hear sounds people miss out on, so maybe she was just checking for that.

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There are screening surveys the NPs give that assess the potential for psychiatric conditions such as depression (either major unipolar or bipolar), schizophrenia, etc. It's likely one of those screeners. I remember filling out a parent version of a survey that was assessing emotional status. It's hard for a parent who is mainly going in for evaluation of LDs to hear their child has been asked about symptoms that are pretty severe and that the child may never have heard could happen, but it's important in a complete assessment for the evaluator to cover the bases.

 

I wouldn't be overly worried at this point about the NP not answering your questions. The place where you want her to spend that time is in the final review of all the information she has gathered. Our NP did give a couple of quick anecdotes about how ds was handling the testing procedures when he spoke to me briefly while his assistant was giving a couple of the tests. However, he did not give any information about exactly what tests he had done or what he was seeing. He really does save it for the end. Partly, it's to avoid giving out any impressions that may end up false once the data is analyzed. Partly, it's to make sure that the NP stays on schedule with his/her day and doesn't get off track. In addition, and this may not apply in your case, but if you are in a public waiting room and there is a chance someone else could walk in, they can't say anything significant because of HIPAA regulations.  

 

Here's one thing you might consider once you've had the follow up to get the results. You might find that after you get home from that appointment and read the report (like a hundred times over!) that you have more questions. At the follow up, ask whether you are able to make another appointment to get those questions answered should you need that time. Our NP does do this at his usual billable rate since it's not included in the package price of a comprehensive assessment.

 

 

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OH, thanks for the info, you guys are making me feel better. I didn't think of the hearing voices question as a hearing issue. I guess it makes sense to give a thorough assessment but it was slightly unsettling as that would certainly be a surprise!

 

Marie- that is good to hear about your evaluation. I did notice that there is an option to have more follow-up sessions after the final appt. I'm hoping that once she has all the info that she is forthcoming and that it is just her trying to keep professional. I can imagine that I will have more questions as I think that just processing it all will be quite enough.

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My younger son's supervisor does evals, and she is not winning any personality awards.

 

She is so knowledgable and has been right-on for my son.

 

A little while ago I had a chance to change and also had an issue... I asked two how they would address a certain thing.

 

Well -- the less personable one totally knew what I was talking about and addressed my concerns -- I am very pleased (a few months later now) with the path we are going down.

 

The more personable person is much more personable and also good, but I don't think she is as knowledgable right now. She is younger. She also is more focused on working directly with kids.

 

For better or for worse -- the supervisor doesn't work directly with kids. I mean, she does, but like evaluations. So -- she has seen a huge number of cases and outcomes, and knows about huge areas and is up on every area.

 

The person who works more with kids does not seem to have that breadth. But she is much better with kids and should be for her job!

 

The supervisor supervises my son's therapist by going over his progress and recommending some things to his therapist.

 

It is a different personality than I would want for day-to-day or week-to-week services -- but I think she would do a very good eval.

 

My son's day-to-day therapist has a lower certification than Option B (who we really like also) but her plus the supervisor mean we get the benefit of someone very personable plus someone with a big overview and who knows all the research and stuff.

 

Also -- I have seen that the supervisor turns on some charm for my son that she does not turn on for me as a parent! I don't know why -- but it is better that she charm my son than charm me!

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I hope your right Elizabeth and that makes me feel better to hear. I told dh I'm going to pretty p'od if we pay all this money and it isn't super informative. I'll be stalking all the patient websites and leaving bad reviews. Anway, trying not to dwell on the negative though and assume the best. It is hard when you have nothing to go on.

 

Here is a weird question, ds asked us last night if we heard voices that other people didn't hear and we're like no, do you? He said no but they asked him that during his tests. He thought that was kind of weird. What kind of test would have that question?

 

(added emphasis to your quote)

 

My ds (grade 3 at the time) was asked that question after he did some attention training in a clinical study.  

 

After the training, he had to fill in a questionnaire.  It was one where you are given a statement and have to identify how strongly you agree or disagree.  There were at least two or three pages of questions.  I had a peek and was pleased by how positive he was in his responses.  No doubt about it, his self-esteem was great.  No problems with focus, school work, friends etc.  Happy kid.

 

But then, I did a double take on that question (it went something along the lines of "I often hear voices that other people don't hear") because he answered that yes, he did hear voices!  Strongly agree was what he had marked down.  And then, later on, the same question was asked in a different way, and again the answer was strongly yes!

 

Deep breaths ensued.

 

Nothing came of it; the people heading the study never got back to me to say there was a problem.  I didn't ask him what he meant. I thought it best to let it go.  

 

I now actually understand his answers.  He is extremely sensitive to sound.  So he probably does, quite literally, hear voices that others don't hear or that we only hear in a muted way from across the room.  They are real voices though, not made up ones.

 

ETA:  I don't remember what the name of the questionnaire was but it looked like a standard assessment tool.  It was not put together by the clinic.

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In regard to the question about 'hearing voices'?

This could be a question about the ability to 'Sub-Vocalize'?

 

As you read this, no doubt you are hearing the words in your mind, without saying them out loud?

Also when you write a reply, you would hear the words in your mind, as you rehearse what you are going to write?

But you would no doubt also use it to talk things over in your mind?

 

The ability to do this, typically takes around 8 years to fully develop.

One of the main signifiers of a delayed development of this ability, is when children over 8 are unable to 'read silently'.   As they don't hear the words as they read, unless they say them out loud.

 

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During NP testing, I'm not sure it's really appropriate or useful for the tester to comment on any testing until they have reviewed all the data and developed a full picture of the child.

 

The only feedback we ever received between testing days was that DS behaved and was very congenial.  The first NP tester was very friendly from the beginning.  Four years later, the second NP was all business until the testing results were provided.  I liked both women after speaking with them.

 

As far as questioning...The first NP tester asked many physical and mental health type questions.  DH was a bit thrown when asked if DS had every been physically or sexually abused.  Apparently, sexual abuse is very common with what she'd seen.  The fact that DH and I were married for so long was unusual as well.  

 

As far as the inner voice question, I would just assume the tester is referring to an inner monologue.  

 

The testers need to know these issues as they deal with the kids, so they have to ask.  Whatever the case, good luck!!

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During NP testing, I'm not sure it's really appropriate or useful for the tester to comment on any testing until they have reviewed all the data and developed a full picture of the child.

 

Commenting on testing results prior to the post-testing visit?  No.  Answering a question from a parent about what tests her child was given?  Yes, that should be information given to the parent even prior to testing.

 

I may have misunderstood the OP, but my answer was regarding the NP not wanting to give information about what tests were administered.  Parents should not be "left in the dark" regarding that.

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Commenting on testing results prior to the post-testing visit?  No.  Answering a question from a parent about what tests her child was given?  Yes, that should be information given to the parent even prior to testing.

 

I may have misunderstood the OP, but my answer was regarding the NP not wanting to give information about what tests were administered.  Parents should not be "left in the dark" regarding that.

Agree.  

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Commenting on testing results prior to the post-testing visit?  No.  Answering a question from a parent about what tests her child was given?  Yes, that should be information given to the parent even prior to testing.

 

I may have misunderstood the OP, but my answer was regarding the NP not wanting to give information about what tests were administered.  Parents should not be "left in the dark" regarding that.

Yes, that really bothered me.  When we went into the second day I said, "Hey I never did get a complete list of all the tests you are performing" she said, "Well you'll get those in the reports" I said, "Well, I was just hoping to have a list for now not the complete info."  she said, " That would create double the work for us.  We aren't exactly sure what all we're doing"  She has just been very short w/ me, like she's in a rush.  

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Yes, that really bothered me.  When we went into the second day I said, "Hey I never did get a complete list of all the tests you are performing" she said, "Well you'll get those in the reports" I said, "Well, I was just hoping to have a list for now not the complete info."  she said, " That would create double the work for us.  We aren't exactly sure what all we're doing"  She has just been very short w/ me, like she's in a rush.  

The subtests or additional tests can change during the process, but it would take 30 seconds to give a list of typical tests along with the explanation that if something needs further exploration, an additional test or a subtest will be administered.  Even "I will administer one of three cognitive tests, an educational test and likely a subtest based on your concerns about X.  These may change as I get further into the testing and see that a different test may give better information or additional information."

 

She is not winning points for personality, but you may get great information. 

 

As a mental health professional, I always answered any questions that parents had upfront and as they arose during the process of therapy with their child.  It is inappropriate to brush off parents with, essentially, an attitude of "I'm the expert.  Trust me and don't waste my time."  Part of working with kids is dealing with parents. 

 

If I wanted to get the best treatment for a specific medical condition, I would want the best medical doctor to treat me, not the nicest one.  So maybe this NP does a great job of evaluating and assessing and testing and giving feedback and is not the warm, fuzzy type.  That is my hope for you, OP.  I don't think expertise is linked to winning personality.  :)

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The subtests or additional tests can change during the process, but it would take 30 seconds to give a list of typical tests along with the explanation that if something needs further exploration, an additional test or a subtest will be administered.  Even "I will administer one of three cognitive tests, an educational test and likely a subtest based on your concerns about X.  These may change as I get further into the testing and see that a different test may give better information or additional information." Ya, I was thinking it would take you less than a minute to give me a list, just even give me the acronyms and I can figure it out from there!.

 

She is not winning points for personality, but you may get great information. That is my hope!

 

As a mental health professional, I always answered any questions that parents had upfront and as they arose during the process of therapy with their child.  It is inappropriate to brush off parents with, essentially, an attitude of "I'm the expert.  Trust me and don't waste my time."  Part of working with kids is dealing with parents. 

Yes, that was more her attitude, which I really find tiresome.

If I wanted to get the best treatment for a specific medical condition, I would want the best medical doctor to treat me, not the nicest one.  So maybe this NP does a great job of evaluating and assessing and testing and giving feedback and is not the warm, fuzzy type.  That is my hope for you, OP.  I don't think expertise is linked to winning personality.  :)

That is what I told dh.  I want the best not necessarily the nicest but I'm really expecting that she should give me tons of info at the feedback like she indicated she would, otherwise I'm really not going to be happy.

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Well, she is the one who said her reports were 20-25 pages and would have specific curriculum recommendations, so that is what I expect.  If she told me that the report was 6 pages and just gave a list of tests w/ numbers then that is what I would expect. As I had read there was a very wide range of results and info provided I asked to verify.  She is the one who stated how thorough and helpful her evaluations are for parents.  I specifically picked her based on the amount of detail she promised.  At this point though I have no idea if she will follow through w/ her promises, I'm hoping that the reviews and rec's were right.  I'm not however impressed w/ her interactions with me.  I don't like being dismissed and I think asking for a list of tests, even verbally, is not an unreasonable request.  I can understand her not wanting to give much info otherwise but when you've paid for a service already then a 1 minute list is not much to ask.

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Well, I couldn't ask her the specific tests she did prior to her doing them.  We talked about the different kind of tests that might be done beforehand but obviously it would depend on how it went.  If she is annoyed by one -1 min conversation during the 2 days of testing then I think she is the one w/ the problem.  I haven't bugged her, I'm not sure where you got that impression.  I haven't talked to her since the testing. I seen her for maybe 5 whole minutes on the first day of testing to set up the results session and give her a check then I had that 1 minute convo asking her what tests had been done the second day.  I haven't called her or emailed her other than the initial time to set up the apt.

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Some people don't make themselves very available to others in situations like these--not sure if they don't have good people skills, can't multi-task (checking in with you is multi-tasking even though it doesn't seem like it), or if she was having a bad day. It would irritate me incredibly to not have a small question like that answered--both psychs we've seen did tell us at the end of each testing session where they were in the process (halfway through the WISC or we've done portions of the WISC and the Woodcock Johnson). She might be afraid you're trying to infer something from what tests she's using as she goes along, and maybe she's had bad experiences with families doing that and assuming something before she gets all her facts in line.

 

She sounds like someone who is very linear, pressing forward to a goal, and you sound like someone who wants a big picture view with snapshots along the way. One would think she'd recognize your need to ask questions given what she does for a living and given that this is a stressful process for parents. I think that while your current experience is not ideal, it will be self-fulfilling prophecy that you don't like the outcome if you get too worried about it in the interim. I think it's good that you are expressing your concerns here so that you can process. I don't think that you are causing the psych to have a bad reaction, but I do think that it's possible the psych could react later by pulling back even more if she senses your frustration--some people just do that. We have a psych that I feel really comfortable with, and she could tell I was nervous during the evaluation process. In general, I don't bring out the best in any medical people or authority figures that are "answer" people (people who advise others), and she knows that. I think she's intuitive to start with but goes the extra mile for me. Hang in there!

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I think it is more of a personality difference.  I've not said anything to her about my dislike or aggravation as I haven't thought it worth mentioning.  We are only going to have one more meeting as of now.  I've actually not spent a lot of time thinking about it all lately as I have much more important things going on and thinking about it will in no way help me.  I had a momentary freak-out after the intake but otherwise we are living our life as normal.  I've responded to posts on here as I feel it is the polite thing to do but that doesn't mean it has constantly been on my mind. I do not think that what I asked her was out of line in anyway.  I was very low key about it and I can even understand her refusal to tell me to a certain degree but the manner in which she did it was rude and dismissive.  I think suggesting that me asking for a verbal lists of the tests done is in no way "doubling her work" and found that rather absurd.  Of course her attitude and demeanor is just a small part of it all and assuming she provides the services she said she would then her services will be worth the cost regardless. 

 

I am happy to read everyone's experience though and to hear that many didn't have much if any contact during the process.  I'm happy to hear that can be a normal experience, that does provide me with reassurance.

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