Licensed Psychologist Evaluation for Developmental Disabilit
(Intellectual Disability, Autism, Global Developmental Delay, Cerebral Palsy, Epilepsy, and related conditions.)
A Licensed Clinical Psychologist (PhD or PsyD) is the primary professional qualified to perform comprehensive evaluations for developmental disabilities. This type of assessment determines diagnosis, functional impairment, and eligibility for services.
1. Components of a Developmental Disability Evaluation
A. Clinical Interview
- A detailed interview with parents, caregivers, or the patient covering:
- Pregnancy and birth history
- Early developmental milestones
- Speech/language history
- Behavior and social skills
- School performance
- Medical and mental health history
- Family history
Tools commonly used:
- Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales (VABS-3)
- ADI-R (Autism Diagnostic Interview)
B. Behavioral & Social Observation
Direct observation of:
- Eye contact
- Social reciprocity
- Communication
- Sensory behaviors
- Play or interaction
- Problem-solving
- Repetitive or restrictive behavior patterns
Often performed using:
- ADOS-2 (gold standard for autism evaluation)
- CARS-2 (Childhood Autism Rating Scale)
C. Cognitive or Intellectual Testing
To determine intellectual ability and rule in/out Intellectual Disability (ID).
Common tools:
- WISC-V (children)
- WAIS-IV/V (adults)
- WPPSI-IV (younger children)
- SB5 (Stanford-Binet)
Measures:
- IQ score
- Working memory
- Processing speed
- Reasoning
- Problem-solving
D. Adaptive Functioning Testing
Required for diagnosing Intellectual Disability and some developmental disabilities.
Most commonly:
- Vineland-3 Adaptive Behavior Scales
- ABAS-3
Domains examined:
- Communication
- Daily living skills
- Socialization
- Motor skills
- Executive functioning
E. Emotional & Behavioral Assessment
Used to understand:
- ADHD
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Behavior disorders
- Trauma history
- Self-regulation
Tools:
- BASC-3
- Conners-3
- CBCL
F. Review of Records
Psychologist reviews:
- School reports
- IEP/504 plans
- Medical records
- Therapy notes
- Teacher and caregiver questionnaires
G. Diagnosis & Eligibility
A licensed psychologist determines if the patient meets criteria for:
- Autism Spectrum Disorder
- Intellectual Disability
- Global Developmental Delay (age < 5)
- Language Disorder
- ADHD
- Cerebral Palsy-related developmental impairment
- Epilepsy-associated cognitive impairment
They reference:
- DSM-5-TR diagnostic criteria
State eligibility requirements (e.g., California Regional Center criteria)
2. Final Written Report
The psychologist produces a comprehensive evaluation (typically 10–25 pages) that includes:
✔ Diagnostic Summary
✔ Scores (IQ, adaptive skills, developmental scores)
✔ Strengths and challenges
✔ Functional limitations
✔ Service eligibility
✔ Recommendations
- ABA therapy
- Speech therapy
- OT/Sensory integration
- Behavioral therapy
- Social skills training
- School supports / IEP
- Mental health care
- Parent training
- DME or sensory equipment
- Regional Center referrals
3. Who Can Perform the Evaluation?
Licensed Clinical Psychologist (PhD/PsyD) — primary evaluator
Developmental Pediatrician — can diagnose, but psychologists do the full testing
Neurologist / Psychiatrist — may diagnose but usually do not perform full DD evaluations
For Regional Center and Medi-Cal ABA, the evaluation must be signed by a Licensed Psychologist or Physician.
3. Who Can Perform the Evaluation?
Licensed Clinical Psychologist (PhD/PsyD) — primary evaluator
Developmental Pediatrician — can diagnose, but psychologists do the full testing
Neurologist / Psychiatrist — may diagnose but usually do not perform full DD evaluations
For Regional Center and Medi-Cal ABA, the evaluation must be signed by a Licensed Psychologist or Physician.
Home Modification
Our home modification program helps individuals with disabilities or chronic conditions to live safely and independently in their homes. We provide recommendations and assistance with home modifications, such as grab bars, ramps, and lifts.