The use of psychoeducational evaluations in the clinical process-therapists as sympathetic advocates

Abstract

Psychoeducational evaluations are described and examined as invaluable tools for families and professionals to use in determining how best to help a child adapt successfully to the world in which he/she must function. The process of evaluation gains power when families are supported by a therapist who is actively involved in the process as a knowledgeable, sympathetic observer. The role requires a grasp of the fundamentals of the evaluation process, including referral, contacts with the diagnostician, test sessions, kinds of tests available, analysis of results and feedback to all parties involved.