Frequently Asked Question

Who does DecodEd Learning serve?

DecodEd Learning works with children from preschool through high school and their families. Typical clients are looking to learn more about how they can support their child’s learning. There are many reasons parents may want an in depth look at the factors affecting school performance. The children may be struggling to learn how to read, having difficulty paying attention, missing assignment deadlines, or experiencing boredom. DecodEd Learning can help identify the causes and make recommendations to provide support to the child at hime and at school.

Do you identify children with learning disabilities?

Yes, I complete assessments to identify children with learning disabilities. This includes dyslexia, dysgraphia, and dyscalculia. As part of this process, I will collect information from a number of different sources including you, your child, and your child’s teacher(s). I will work with your child one-on-one to assess their cognitive and academic skills. Rating scales and interviews will be used to gather information in other areas that may affect learning. All of the information will be reviewed with you and a determination will be made about whether your child’s learning is being impacted by a learning disability,

Do you diagnose ADHD?

My assessments are able to determine if inattention, distractibility, or poor executive functioning skills are impacting your child’s learning. I look at a number of different elements related to these. Based on this information, I make recommendations to help support your child at home and at school. I do not, however, provide a formal diagnosis of ADHD or ADD. This diagnosis is typically made by a medical professional.

Do you diagnose Autism?

Based on the information I collect in my assessments, I am able to determine whether your child exhibits behaviors typical of individuals with Autism. Based on this information, I make suggestions to help support your child at home and at school. I do not diagnose Autism at this time. If behaviors typical of individuals with Autism are found during my assessment, I will assist you in finding a professional qualified to complete a more in-depth assessment.

Do you diagnose depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, etc.?

My practice is limited to the effects of these on learning. My assessments indicate whether an individual is at risk for or exhibits behaviors consistent with mental health conditions, however I do not provide a formal diagnosis. My focus is on finding what is impacting your child’s learning and recommending strategies. This may include helping your child develop strategies to overcome the impact of mental health issues or referring you and your child to a different mental health provider who is able to provide a formal diagnosis along with counseling and other supports.

Do you provide ongoing counseling services?

I do provide some short-term counseling related to issues that are impacting your child’s learning. This may include mindfulness, emotional regulation strategies, ways to cope with anxiety, and other solution-focused interventions. I do not provide long-term counseling to address mental health issues.

Do you prescribe medication?

No, only a medical professional can prescribe medication.

Can you do an evaluation if the school district has already completed one?

Yes. If your school district has already completed an assessment of your child, and you disagree with the result or would like additional information, I am able to complete additional assessments. However, many assessments are not valid if given too frequently. If your school has completed an assessment already, I will ask for a copy of the report to ensure that I do not duplicate any of the assessments they already completed.

Does the school district have to accept the results of your assessment?

If you are looking for your child to receive services from your school district, such as an IEP or 504 Plan, an outside evaluation can be helpful information for the school team. The school district will need to conduct their own evaluation and may choose to use some or all of the information I provide. My report will not determine whether your child is eligible for special education services or a 504 Plan. That is a decision made by the school team based on how your child is performing at school. Having an outside evaluation can be helpful in several circumstances, however. If the school has refused to complete an evaluation themselves, an outside evaluation, if it indicates the existence of a disability, can provide support for your request for them to complete an evaluation for special education services. If the school has completed an evaluation and found tat your child does not qualify for special education services, and you question the validity of the information they collected, you are entitled to request an outside evaluation. The evaluation I complete likely will be more comprehensive and in depth than the evaluation provided by the school district,

The short answer is, no, the district does not have to accept my results, however, if my results provide additional information or conflict with the school district’s findings, it may help open up conversations about the needs of your child.

Do you share information about my child with anyone?

Any information you share with me, your child shares with me, or I collect as part of the assessment, is confidential. It will only be shared if I have your written consent or if I believe there is a safety concern (e.g. intent to attempt suicide, intent to harm someone else, or someone is being harmed).

Are you a mandated reporter?

Yes, I am obligated to make a report if I suspect abuse.

Do you accept insurance?

No. Typically insurance companies do not cover the type of assessments and services I provide.

What do your services cost?

The cost depends on your needs. My fees are based on the amount of time I spend with you and your child, the types of assessments I administer, and the materials used, along with other variables. When we meet for the first consultation, I will be able to provide you with an estimate of the cost.

Where are you located?

I work from my home office at my residence in Oxford. I am willing to meet you at your home or another location, if it is more convenient for you. I recommend I complete assessments at my home office or another very quiet location. It is important that assessments are not interrupted and your child is not distracted by activity happening around them. It is important for your child to do their best so that we can create the most effective plan to support him or her.