If you know something feels off but you are not sure what your child needs, a diagnostic evaluation helps provide answers and direction. Many parents come to us feeling worried, overwhelmed, or stuck after hearing concerns from school, noticing changes at home, or watching their child struggle with mood, behavior, sleep, fears, or friendships—or they may be experiencing something else that concerns them. This one-session child diagnostic evaluation is designed to help clarify what may be going on and what kind of support may help next.
During the appointment, a psychologist meets with you and your child together in a focused, practical format. The goal is to better understand symptoms, identify whether a diagnosis or rule-out is appropriate, and give you clear next steps right away. Families receive immediate verbal feedback at the end of the visit and a brief written report with recommendations shortly after.
When families consider a diagnostic evaluation
Common reasons for evaluation include behavior problems, aggression, anxiety, sadness, withdrawal, clinginess, school and learning concerns, developmental delays, sleep or eating challenges, or uncertainty about whether a child may need therapy, a psychological evaluation, medication support, or another service.
What to expect from a diagnostic evaluation
This is an in-person diagnostic evaluation for children and adolescents that typically takes 1.5 hours. It is a clinical intake process that includes child and family interviews and observations. A child psychologist:
- Reviews your child’s developmental, educational, family, medical, and mental health history
- Assesses your child's challenges, strengths, and current level of functioning
- Makes a diagnosis (if warranted)
Psychological and developmental testing may be incorporated to supplement the evaluation.
With parent consent, and where appropriate, the evaluation may include interviews with, or reports from, teachers, pediatricians, counselors, and others who play a significant role in the child's life, ensuring a thorough and well-rounded understanding.
Following diagnostic evaluation, recommendations are made which may include specific treatment approaches, further psychological testing/evaluation, or a variety of other interventions or consultations. Verbal feedback is provided—meaning you leave with practical guidance and recommendations for next steps.
How a diagnostic evaluation can help
Get faster clarity about your child’s symptoms and needs—you’ll leave with an initial diagnosis (if warranted)
Understand whether additional psychological testing may be needed
Receive immediate recommendations
Leave with verbal feedback to guide next steps and receive a written report shortly after your visit
What is the difference between a diagnostic evaluation and a psychological evaluation?
A diagnostic evaluation is a one-session service focused on understanding the main concerns, arriving at a diagnosis, and recommending appropriate interventions and next steps. A psychological evaluation is more comprehensive and includes standardized testing to answer broader questions about how a child thinks, learns, feels, and functions.
How quickly will we get results?
Families receive verbal feedback immediately at the end of the appointment. This is followed by a written report shortly after your visit.
How much does a diagnostic evaluation cost?
The cost of an evaluation typically ranges from $1,500 to $5,000, depending on its duration and complexity. Because every individual and situation is unique, our team will work with you to determine the most appropriate evaluation and associated costs. Please contact our team to discuss your family's needs and develop a personalized plan.
Is the diagnostic evaluation in person or virtual?
We offer diagnostic evaluations in person only. Our office is located at Sheppard Pratt’s flagship campus in Towson. It is north of Baltimore City, just off 695 at the N Charles Street exit.
Schedule a diagnostic evaluation to get expert guidance and recommendations.