The back-to-school lists are out, and for some parents the supply run comes with a knot in the stomach. Last year's teacher mentioned your child couldn't sit still, or homework turned into nightly tears, or your normally chatty kid went quiet every Sunday night. You don't want to overreact, but you don't want another hard year either. A child psychologist can help you understand what's going on, and summer's last weeks are a good time to start, because appointments often book up once school is underway.
This is general information to help you get started. It isn't medical or psychological advice. Your child's pediatrician and a licensed mental health professional are the right people to talk with about your child.
Signs it may be time to talk to a professional
Every child has rough patches. A conversation with a professional makes sense when a concern lasts for weeks or months, shows up in more than one place, such as home and school, or gets in the way of learning, friendships or family life.
- Trouble focusing, finishing tasks or following directions
- Big gaps between how bright a child seems and how they do in school
- Reading, writing or math that stays much harder than for classmates
- Worry, stomachaches or meltdowns before school
- Frequent conflict with teachers or other kids
- Sudden changes in sleep, appetite or mood
- Speech or language delays in younger children
If your child talks about hurting themselves or you're worried about their immediate safety, don't wait for an appointment. Call or text 988, the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, or call 911.
Who does what: a quick guide
The titles are confusing. Here's a simple breakdown.
- Pediatrician: Often the best first stop. They can rule out medical causes, like hearing or vision problems, and refer you.
- Child psychologist: A licensed psychologist who works with children. Many provide testing and evaluations, therapy or both.
- Neuropsychologist: A psychologist with extra training in how the brain affects learning and behavior. They often do in-depth testing.
- Child psychiatrist: A medical doctor who can diagnose and prescribe medication.
- Licensed counselor or therapist: Provides talk therapy, and may work with kids and families on anxiety, behavior and coping skills.
- School psychologist: Works within the school, often doing educational evaluations.
- Early intervention: For children under three, states run programs that evaluate and support developmental delays.
School evaluation or private evaluation?
You usually have two paths, and many families use both.
School evaluation
Public schools have duties under federal special education law to identify and evaluate children who may have a disability that affects their learning. You can ask your child's school, in writing, for an evaluation. It doesn't cost you anything. The results can lead to support such as an IEP or a 504 plan if your child qualifies. Timelines and procedures vary by state.
Private evaluation
A private psychologist may offer a broader evaluation, more time with your child and sometimes a shorter wait. It may cost more, and insurance coverage for testing varies a lot, so call your insurer and ask what's covered. A private report can also be shared with the school if you choose.
How to find a child psychologist near you
Start with referrals
Ask your pediatrician, your child's teacher or school counselor, and other parents you trust. Your insurance company can give you a list of in-network providers.
Search locally
On Listings Junkie, counseling and therapy providers are organized by state, such as California and Illinois. Some child-focused practices also appear under health and medical.
A few examples listed on the site: Bridge Educational Psychology Services in Bakersfield, California, describes ADHD evaluations, school guidance and recommendations for children and families. Coded Healthcare & Behavioral Services in Shorewood, Illinois, describes emotional, behavioral and developmental support for children and families. For babies and toddlers in New York, Legacy Kids describes itself as a state-approved early intervention agency serving children from birth to age three. These are examples, not endorsements.
Book early
Waitlists for testing can be long. Call several offices, ask about the wait, and get on more than one list if you need to.
Questions to ask before you book
Do you work mainly with children my child's age?
What does your ADHD evaluation for kids, or other assessment, include?
How many sessions will it take, and how long is each one?
Will you talk with my child's teacher or review school records?
Do you take my insurance? If not, can you provide paperwork so I can seek out-of-network reimbursement?
What's the total cost of testing, and what does it include?
Will we have a feedback meeting to go over the results?
Do you also offer therapy, or will you refer us?
How to prepare your child
Keep it simple and calm. For younger kids, "We're going to meet someone who helps kids figure out how they learn best" works well. For older kids, be honest about what you've noticed and why you want to help. Make sure they get a good night's sleep and a decent breakfast before testing days, and bring glasses or hearing aids if they use them.
What happens after the evaluation
Most psychologists write a report and meet with you to explain it. You should leave with:
- A clear summary of what they found
- Any diagnosis, explained in plain words
- Practical recommendations for home and school
- Suggestions for next steps, such as therapy, tutoring, a medical follow-up or school supports
If something in the report doesn't make sense, ask. A good child psychologist wants you to understand it.
While you're getting ready for the school year, it's also a good time for other routine visits. Our guide to choosing a dentist for your family covers what to look for in a family practice.
Frequently asked questions
At what age can a child be evaluated?
Evaluations can happen at many ages. Early intervention programs serve children under three, and psychologists evaluate preschoolers through teens. Ask providers which ages they see.
Is a school evaluation as good as a private one?
They serve somewhat different purposes. A school evaluation focuses on whether a child qualifies for school services. A private evaluation may be broader. Many families start with the school and add a private evaluation if needed.
Does insurance cover a child psychologist evaluation?
Sometimes. Coverage for psychological testing varies by plan. Call your insurer, ask what's covered, and ask the provider for the billing codes they plan to use.
How long does an evaluation take?
It varies. Many involve an intake meeting, one or more testing sessions and a feedback session, spread across a few weeks.
Do I need a referral from my pediatrician?
Not always, but some insurance plans require one, and your pediatrician's input is useful either way.
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