frequently asked questions
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The process will always begin with a complimentary, brief consultation call to learn about your concerns and whether I can help. Call my office or complete the contact form on my website and let’s schedule a time to talk.
From there, we'll tailor a plan that aligns with your objectives and the needs of your child. I am committed to offering support every step of the way.
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After our complimentary consultation call, we will find a time to hold an in-depth intake meeting. Once the meeting is scheduled, you will receive paperwork to sign and complete. You should expect the meeting to last about 1 hour, and I can typically offer those within a week or 2 either virtually or in-person. I value your time and urgency, so it's best to get in touch as soon as possible to secure your preferred date.
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Gold Coast Psychoeducational Associates specializes in evaluating students from pre-K through 12th grades.
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The length of the evaluation process varies depending on the referral questions you are seeking answers for. I prioritize thoroughness and accuracy, ensuring every student receives the comprehensive insight they deserve. I typically schedule 2 initial direct testing sessions of 3 hours each to begin, but remain flexible to the needs of your child. When all testing and input has been completed, you can expect the report and feedback meeting in about 2 weeks.
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It's important for the child to approach the evaluation being well-rested, fed, and feeling relaxed. I generally discourage telling the student they are taking a test, and rather explain that they will be meeting with Mrs. Pinnola to do some activities together so we can learn how their brain works the best. Be assured that I will take as much time as necessary before starting testing to get to know your child through a conversational interview in order to build working rapport.
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Fees are charged hourly for consultation, counseling, or advocacy work at $250 per hour.
Evaluations are offered as flat-rate tiered packages, which depend upon the type and complexity of the referral concerns.
Standard Psychoeducational Evaluation (i.e. to assess for a learning disability, ADHD, or testing accommodations for example) = $2500
Specialized Evaluation (i.e. to assess for learning concerns as well as more complicated presenting problems like Autism, social-emotional concerns, a Traumatic Brain Injury or other medical conditions) = $3500
Gifted Evaluation = $800
All evaluations include an intake meeting, direct testing sessions with your child, data analysis, writing of a comprehensive report, and a feedback session to review the results together. A retainer of $250 is due at the intake meeting, which will be applied toward the cost of the evaluation. ½ of the balance is due at the 1st testing session with the remainder due at the feedback meeting.
After the evaluation is complete, should you need any further support (such as additional consultation, my attendance at a school meeting, intervention planning, counseling, or advocacy services), that would be billed at my hourly rate.
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Gold Coast Psychoeducational Associates is private pay only. I can accept all major credit and debit cards as well as FSA/HSA cards, cash, or Zelle payments.
I am happy to provide you with a superbill you can submit to your insurance company if you wish to pursue possible reimbursement for out-of-network benefits.
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Yes! I feel a holistic, multi-faceted approach to evaluations will result in more meaningful recommendations. With the appropriate permissions I can collaborate with teachers, other educational professionals, counselors, and/or doctors to gain a well-rounded perspective on your child's needs.
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My evaluations are conducted based on recognized standards in the field and are widely accepted by both public and private educational institutions. You can expect to receive a comprehensive report that can be utilized for IEPs, 504s, ESE determinations, testing accommodations, and other academic planning purposes.