Frequently Asked Questions

What should I tell my child about before their appointment?

Explanations will vary depending on the age and maturity of the child. Generally, you may want to explain that, because nobody has the same brain, the evaluation will give information about how their unique brain “works.” Emphasize that many children have evaluations and that this does not mean that there is "something wrong" with them. Reassure your child that this process provides information to help make school/life easier for them. It is best to present an evaluation as different “activities” and avoid using the word "games" because they may be disappointed that many of the tasks are like school and/or they may not give as much effort if it is just a “game.” It is also recommended to avoid using the word “test” as this may unnecessarily increase their level of anxiety and gives them a false idea that they should know the answer to every question. 

At the beginning of the testing, Dr. Schwartz will explain to the child what is expected of them during the session. They will be told that they will be asked to do many different “activities.” Some of these activities will be similar to things they do at school and other activities will be new and not at all like schoolwork. He will also explain that, for each activity, the questions start off easy and get more difficult as the activity progresses; however, they should remember that the activities are designed so that no one knows every answer and they are only required to try their best on every item. The activities change frequently and include things such as drawing, looking at pictures, and answering questions verbally.

What is the cost of an evaluation?

The cost of an evaluation is determined based on the amount of time needed to conduct the initial interview, administer the selected tests, score and interpret the results, provide oral feedback of the results, talk with collateral contacts, and write a detailed report of the findings. The amount of time required depends on the nature of the presenting problems and/or referral questions as well as the tests required to effectively and efficiently provide the requested information. Therefore, evaluation costs vary based on the individual needs of each client.

Dr. Schwartz  accepts Medicaid when it is the client’s primary insurance. He is "in network" for many insurance plans and "out-of-network" for many others; therefore, payment is required directly to his office at the time of the service unless you have preauthorized your evaluation with him with your insurance. If you do that, then you will need to pay your co-pay as well as any other fees that are not covered by your insurance at the time of the first evaluation session.

What are the steps involved in an evaluation?

You may contact Dr. Schwartz directly (770-953-4744, ext. 43) to set up an intake appointment to begin your evaluation. After the first appointment is made, you will receive some preliminary paperwork in the mail. All of the preliminary paperwork will need to be fully completed and returned at your first appointment.

•    Intake: The first appointment will usually allow Dr. .Schwartz and you enough time to review the preliminary paperwork, obtain additional history information, and understand specific areas of strength and concern. The intake is usually attended by the parent(s)/guardian(s) if the client is under the age of 18. 

•    Direct Testing: After the intake appointment is completed, you will need to schedule an appointment to begin the direct, objective testing with Dr. Schwartz. The testing appointments may last anywhere from 1 to 4 hours, depending on the client. Often, more than one testing session is required to complete the direct assessment portion of the evaluation.  Dr. Schwartz does all of his own testing.

Clients will be allowed several short breaks during the direct testing and are welcome to bring snacks and a drink. Parents of younger children generally stay in the waiting room; however, parents of older children are welcome to leave the office and return at the end of the appointment, if preferred. If a parent leaves the office, they will be asked to leave a cell phone number in the event that they need to be reached and prepare to return 15 minutes prior to the end of the appointment.

•    Feedback: After the direct testing is completed, Dr. Schwartz will schedule an appointment to meet with the client and/or the client’s parents for a 60-90 minute feedback session.  Specific results and information obtained through the direct testing, a review of intake information and pertinent records, collateral behavior rating scales, and behavioral observations will be discussed during that appointment. Additionally, Dr. Schwartz will provide specific recommendations based on the results and diagnosis (i.e. interpersonal therapy, academic coaching services, IEP assistance for academic accommodations at school, speech/language therapy, occupational therapy, vision therapy, physical therapy, medication management, etc.).  

•    Report: A detailed, formal written report with background information, as well as specific results, diagnosis, and recommendations will also be provided to the client and/or the client’s parents either at the time of the feedback appointment or shortly thereafter. With permission, Dr.  Schwartz will be glad to provide a copy of this report to physicians, treatment providers, and school personnel for the purpose of continuity of care and to ensure treatment goals are met.