Working with Dr. Sims includes an initial consultation meeting to clarify needs, one to two assessment sessions depending on goals, and a feedback session to discuss results and plan next steps.  The initial consultation session is $50, and that amount is paid toward the final assessment balance should your family decide to proceed with the evaluation.  All families will receive a written report at the final feedback session.  

Educational Entrance Testing

Enrolling in many private schools in New Orleans requires a test of cognitive abilities.  For young children, this test requires less than an hour for actual testing with your child, totaling about a full hour for the initial visit  with Dr. Sims .  For children six and above, testing will take  longer.  Parents will be provided with a written report and may request that results be sent directly to schools.  The cost of this service is $350.

Attention-deficit/ Hyperactivity Disorder Assessments

 Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder assessments are focused on determining whether your child or adolescent meets diagnostic criteria according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual for Psychiatric Disorders, fifth edition (DSM-V)  for ADHD.   Information  will be gathered both in and out of session: on site, Dr. Sims will conduct interviews with parent(s) and child.  Parents will be asked to complete questionnaires inquiring about their child's behavioral history, and the child will be required to complete a number of assessment measures that allow insight into their learning preferences and behavioral tendencies.  Assessment extends off site and into the child's natural learning environment through classroom observations, when possible.  Your child's teachers will also be asked to  complete questionnaires about specific behaviors.  At the conclusion of the evaluation, a full-length report with performance scores, diagnoses when applicable, and recommendations will be provided.  The cost of this service is $800, but may be more depending on academic testing needs (please see below).

Full  Evaluations

Full psychoeducational examinations are conducted in order to identify learning strengths and difficulties, and when necessary,  diagnose learning disabilities or other problems.  Diagnoses to be considered may include reading/ writing disorders (including problems with basic skills, fluency, spelling, and comprehension) and math disorders (in fluency, calculation, or problem-solving). Dr. Sims will examine different aspects of your child's learning preferences and current educational environment in order to report how the child’s needs must be met in order to perform their best.   Depending on need, assessments may measure aspects of attention, memory, problem-solving, language, and other areas of cognitive abilities.  Different modalities are used, including using adaptive programs on the computer or iPad, puzzles requiring physical or mental manipulation, and paper and pencil tasks.  Full examinations include an assessment of social, emotional, and behavioral needs.  At the conclusion of the evaluation, a full-length report with performance scores, diagnoses, and recommendations will be provided.  The cost of this service begins at $1200, and is dependent on the number of assessment batteries warranting administration.  Dr. Sims will always honor the original quoted price provided at the initial consultation.  

If you're unsure whether you might benefit from assessment services or are unsure of your exact needs,  read more here.