When Should I Schedule an Evaluation?

One of the most common questions parents ask is, “Is now the right time for an evaluation?” The honest answer is reassuringly simple: there is no wrong time.

Because The Modern Psychologist operates outside of insurance requirements, evaluations here do not require a referral or a demonstration of “medical necessity.” This is one of the greatest advantages of a private-pay model. Rather than having an insurance company dictate what can or cannot be explored, families retain full control over the questions we ask and the depth of understanding we pursue.

This flexibility allows us to take the time needed to truly understand a child—not just to meet criteria, but to provide clarity that is useful in real life.

That said, there are certain points in development and life transitions when evaluations are often especially beneficial.

Many parents choose to schedule an evaluation around age 5, when children are approaching kindergarten. At this stage, families often want to understand their child’s developmental readiness, learning profile, and whether starting school now—or waiting one more year—would best support long-term success.

Around age 7, concerns related to attention and executive functioning often become more apparent. ADHD, the most common childhood neurodevelopmental challenge, frequently emerges during this time as academic and organizational demands increase.

Evaluations are also commonly pursued during major educational transitions, such as moving from elementary school to middle school or from middle school to high school. These transitions bring increased academic expectations, greater independence, and more complex social environments. An evaluation at these points can help identify what supports or accommodations may be helpful moving forward.

For adolescents with more significant support needs, families often schedule evaluations around age 17 to explore guardianship considerations and to plan for the transition to adult services.

High school juniors and seniors frequently pursue evaluations to determine eligibility for college entrance exam accommodations (SAT/ACT), to better understand learning styles, or to clarify post-secondary plans.

Many young adults seek evaluations during college to help transfer supports previously provided through an IEP or 504 plan, or near the end of college to clarify career direction and workplace supports.

Adults also pursue evaluations during periods of transition—after medical events, when returning to school, or when shifting career paths and seeking a better understanding of how they function best.

And of course, many families seek evaluations simply because their child is struggling—academically, socially, emotionally, or with transitions. These are always valid reasons to explore further.

If you’re unsure whether an evaluation is the right next step, a consultation can help. I aim to be honest and transparent, and I will let you know if an evaluation is likely to be helpful—or if another form of support may be a better fit at this time.