Diagnostic Assessments for Problems that Interfere with Learning

LDA Minnesota provides a range of testing services, including standard diagnostic, psycho-educational assessments administered by a team of licensed psychologists and state-certified specialists in the field of learning disabilities for children, youth, and adults.

Specific Learning Disabilities Assessment confirms or rules out diagnosis of a Specific Learning Disability (SLD), profiles intellectual functioning, highlights academic strengths and weaknesses, identifies information processing problems, provides required documentation to access disability support services (if eligible), and suggests additional resources and support.

GED Accommodation Assessment determines whether accommodations may be requested for GED testing according to GED standards, identifies academic strengths and weaknesses, measures cognitive ability, and, if appropriate, provides GED-required accommodation forms.

Early Reading Profile is for children ages 5-9. The profile summarizes a young reader's strengths and weaknesses in areas of phonological processing and basic reading skills, may indicate whether the reader is at risk for future reading difficulties and provides recommendations for reading instruction.

ADHD Evaluation (includes LD Assessment) confirms or rules out and identifies which type of ADHD and and/or LD. Profiles information on academic achievement, intellectual ability and recommendations for improving learning outcome.

Dyslexia Testing identifies type and severity; provides recommendations for interventions based on client’s particular needs.

Ability Testing, also known as intelligence or cognitive testing. This testing evaluates the person’s ability to learn. It is typically used in conjunction with achievement testing to determine whether a person has a learning disability. Ability testing is also helpful in evaluating for ADHD as well as determining cognitive strengths and weaknesses.

Achievement Testing evaluates the level of academic learning that has taking place in the areas of math, reading or writing. It is typically used in conjunction with ability testing to determine whether a person has a learning disability. Achievement testing is also helpful in evaluating for dyslexia.

What does a Learning Assessment provide?

• May confirm or rule out a Learning Disability or ADHD
• Screens for mental health and medical conditions that interfere with learning
• Profiles functioning in the areas assessed
• Recommends specific follow-up and/or accommodations, if warranted
• Provides a written summary of findings and recommendations

What will be evaluated during a Learning Assessment?

• Current life situation and sources of stress, including reasons for referral
• A comprehensive psycho-social history which includes a developmental, social, family, education and work history
• Current functioning and symptoms

Psychological testing is conducted as part of a Learning Assessment. This testing may include:

• A behavioral symptom checklist
• Achievement testing
• Evaluation of attention, focus and concentration
• Intellectual ability testing
• A review of diagnostic criteria specific to the individual’s symptoms

LDA Minnesota Assessment services may be covered by your medical or health insurance plan. LDA does not submit insurance claims, but we are available to guide clients, as needed, through the process of filing for insurance reimbursement.  Clients are responsible for full payment to LDA and may choose to submit to their insurance company for any applicable reimbursements.

We offer these sample questions that you can ask your insurance company to help you determine if they will reimburse you for any portion of the assessment:

• Does my policy cover assessments to determine the existence of a learning disorder?
• (Or, for ADD & ADHD) Does my policy cover assessments to determine the existence of ADHD?  If so, what if the diagnosis doesn’t include ADHD?

If insurance covers either of above, then you should ask…

• Is a prior authorization required?  If so, what is required of the provider to make determination?
• Is a diagnostic assessment prior to the testing required?
• Am I required to see an “in network” psychologist or is my coverage different if I see an “out of network” psychologist?
• What percentage of the testing fee am I responsible for?

If you are interested in our assessment services, please This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it with your name, address and telephone number. We will send you an application and set up your appointment as soon as possible.

Risk Factors

Are you or your student, family member, or client at risk of a learning disorder?

Download our Risk Factor Checklist.

For more information, This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or call 952-582-6000.