Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the questions we hear most often from families like yours.
Getting Started with Assessments
Understanding evaluations, timing, and what to expect
Working with NeuroAffirm
Speech therapy, advocacy, and how we support your family
Logistics & Practical Questions
Pricing, insurance, and next steps
How do I find a quality neuropsych evaluation?
Look for a licensed psychologist with experience working with neurodivergent children who provides thorough testing and clear, practical guidance.
Relevant experience: A psychologist who regularly works with school-age children and understands learning differences, neurodivergence, and complex profiles.
Comprehensive evaluation: Typically includes cognitive, academic, executive functioning, and social-emotional measures—not just a single test.
Clear reporting: Results should be explained in plain language, with recommendations that are usable at school and at home.
Feedback and follow-up: A feedback meeting is important so you can ask questions and understand next steps.
Possible red flags:
- Reports that feel generic or overly templated
- Scores without explanation or real-world context
- Few practical recommendations
- Limited opportunity for parent input or follow-up
In-depth evaluations that look at how cognitive, emotional, and behavioral factors interact.
Often used when questions are complex or diagnoses like ADHD or autism are being considered.
School-focused evaluations that assess cognitive ability and academic skills.
Commonly used for IEPs, 504 plans, and educational planning.
What are some examples of tests?
Evaluations typically include a combination of cognitive, academic, attention, executive-functioning, and social-emotional measures. The specific tests used depend on your child's age, needs, and referral questions.
Who pays for these services? Insurance? Schools? Out of pocket?
Payment options vary. Some evaluations are funded through schools, some are paid privately, and some may be partially reimbursed by insurance. We help families understand their options.
Is the timing right for my child?
If concerns are ongoing, increasing, or tied to a school transition, it may be a good time to consider an evaluation. You don't need to wait for a crisis to seek clarity.
Is there availability?
Availability varies by provider. Some evaluators have waitlists, so reaching out early can be helpful.
Should I consider a free evaluation through the school district?
School evaluations can be a useful starting point for accessing supports, though they are often more limited in scope than private evaluations.
My child attends a private school—can they still be evaluated?
Yes. Families can request an evaluation through their public school district under Child Find, though the process and services vary.
How much should I budget?
Private evaluations often cost several thousand dollars, depending on depth and location. Some providers offer payment plans or partial reimbursement.
Do you recommend in-person or online evaluations?
Both formats can be effective. Online evaluations work well for many families, while in-person sessions may be recommended for younger children or specific needs.
What is speech therapy?
Speech therapy supports communication, language, and social interaction, including expressive and receptive language, articulation, and social communication.
Who do you support with speech therapy?
We support preschoolers through young adults, including autistic students, students with ADHD or learning differences, and twice-exceptional learners.
How can speech therapy help my child?
Speech therapy can improve clarity, strengthen language skills, support social communication, and build confidence in daily life.
Do you coordinate with schools?
When appropriate, we collaborate with teachers and school teams so strategies are aligned across settings.
How do I know if speech therapy might help?
If communication challenges are causing frustration, social difficulty, or academic impact, it may be worth exploring an evaluation.
What makes NeuroAffirm's approach unique?
We use a neuro-affirming, strengths-based approach that respects each student's communication style while supporting growth and connection.
What does advocacy mean at NeuroAffirm?
Advocacy means helping families understand their options and navigate educational systems with greater clarity and confidence.
Who do you support with advocacy services?
We support families of neurodivergent students across public, charter, and private schools, from early childhood through young adulthood.
How can you help my family?
We help families prepare for meetings, review plans and evaluations, recommend supports, and navigate school transitions.
How are you different from a lawyer?
We do not provide legal representation. Our role is collaborative and strategic, and we connect families with legal resources when needed.
When should I reach out?
Families often reach out when they feel unsure, overwhelmed, or stuck. You don't need to have everything figured out before asking for support.
What laws protect my child?
Key protections include IDEA, Section 504, and the ADA, which support access, accommodations, and protections against discrimination.
Do you work with private school families?
Yes. We help families understand available options and plan next steps.
How do I know it's working?
Progress often shows up as clearer goals, more productive school conversations, and increased confidence navigating the system.
What about pricing and insurance?
Pricing depends on the service and provider. We begin with a consultation to discuss fit, options, and next steps, and help families understand reimbursement possibilities.
Still have questions? That's okay — we're here to help. Reach out anytime, and we'll do our best to point you in the right direction.
Let's Figure This Out Together
We're here to answer questions, offer guidance, or help you take the next step.
When you reach out, we'll listen, understand your situation, and help you determine what comes next.
Phone number
(510) 468-4874