Psychology

Psychoeducational Assessment
Psychologists may use a variety of tests in the assessment of children. These tests measure intellectual and cognitive abilities, achievement in basic subjects, such as reading, written language, and math, memory and attention. When academic performance is a concern, a psychoeducational evaluation may be warranted. This type of evaluation takes approximately four hours to complete, however, this may vary depending on the presenting concerns, the individual's age, developmental stage and behavior.

Assessment will provide the following information:

• A profile of cognitive strengths and weaknesses.
• A description of the individual's unique learning styles.
• Delineation of factors that interfere with learning.
• Strategies for improving academic performance.
• Assistance in qualifying for special programs at school, in the workplace or at home.
• The psychologist can discuss these options with you

Psychological Assessment
When behavior or emotional issues are of concern, an assessment of social and emotional status may be warranted. This involves the gathering of a detailed developmental history, and an interview with the primary caregivers and the child.

The psychologist may ask parents and teachers to complete behavior checklists and surveys relating to the individual's performance in a variety of contexts. They may use tests that explore thoughts, feeling, and moods. A psychological assessment requires approximately two hours for completion, however it may take more or less time depending on the child's age, and behavior.

Assessment results include the following:

• Reveals how well the individual child relates with peers and adults.
• Describes the child's self-concept.
• Assists in diagnosing conditions such as depression, phobias, and thought disorders.

Psychotherapy/Counseling
Psychotherapy/counseling can be a helpful and effective way to address distressing feelings, self-esteem, social skills, friendship and relationship development, school and academic challenges, behavior management, parenting, family conflict, stress reduction, self-harming behaviors, and anger management. Psychotherapy/counseling can also be beneficial in providing guidance and support in dealing with daily stressors, and adjustment issues and life changes (e.g., a move, loss, divorce, illness, etc.). The psychology staff at Melmed Center is comprised of numerous professionals with specializations in the areas of early childhood, autism spectrum disorders including Asperger’s Disorder, adolescent issues, attention challenges, social skills, and behavior management. Therapy interventions include behavior therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and family therapy. Psychotherapy/counseling is provided in individual, family, and/or group formats. Counseling services are provided in English and Spanish.

More specifically, the psychologists at Melmed Center have experience in and provide services for the following mental health and behavioral disorders: 
Depressive and Mood Disorders, including depression and Bipolar Disorder; Anxiety Disorders, including Separation Anxiety Disorder, School Refusal, Panic Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, and Generalized Anxiety Disorder; externalizing behavioral disorders including Disruptive Behavior Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, and Conduct Disorder; Pervasive Developmental Disorders including High-Functioning Autism and Asperger’s Disorder; Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder; Pediatric Feeding and Childhood and Adolescent Eating Disorders; Elimination Disorders; and relational problems including emerging personality challenges. 

Psychological, psycho-diagnostic, and/or psychoeducational assessment are also offered to assess symptom presentation, inform diagnosis, contribute to treatment planning, and evaluate treatment outcomes. Diagnostic services for autism, ADHD and learning problems are provided in English and Spanish.

The psychologists at Melmed Center work as part of a multi-disciplinary team and actively collaborate with other treatment providers such as the developmental pediatricians and/or nurse practitioners that your family might be working with in order to maximize quality of care. 

We would be happy to assist you in choosing the psychology services you need.
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Click here to view biographies of our psychologists