Testing and Evaluation
 The need for psychological testing and assessment is often determined after a consultation and a review of previous testing and records. Parents are often the first to notice learning differences or developmental concerns and seek guidance about the best direction for their child. There may have been previous assessments that have not addressed all questions or concerns that a parent may have. In other words, parents want answers.
For 16 years, Dr. Dianne Sterling consulted to several school systems in the Northeast, collaborating with parents and special education teams as well as testing hundreds of children and adolescents. In San Diego, she has consulted with parents and tested children in her private practice. Her goal is to provide indepth information and understanding of a child’s cognitive, academic and social/emotional functioning, as well as their cognitive processing style and temperament. After an initial history gathering, she may determine that a referral to a neuropsychologist, occupational therapist, psychopharmacologist or other specialized professional may be most appropriate.
Assessment is usually performed over two or three visits. Testing can include intelligence testing, achievement testing, attention assessment, social and emotional development, memory and processing speed assessment, as well as other specialized tests: The particular tests used are tailored to the individual child. Tests assist in the diagnosis of learning disability, giftedness, ADHD, spectrum disorders, social or emotional issues, and also to identify individual strengths and weaknesses. After testing is completed, a meeting is held with the family to review results and recommendations.
Dr. Sterling helps parents obtain the answers they need and a more full understanding of their child as well as helping the child gain self understanding of their own strengths and weaknesses. Her particular interest areas include complex cases, ADHD, and giftedness characteristics. She has found that the assessment process itself can be therapeutic as well as clarifying, since results lead to a direction of action.
“You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself any direction you choose” (Dr. Seuss)
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