Evaluations and Diagnostic Services
Evaluations involve the assessment of an individual's competencies and limitations and how these actual abilities compare to the demands or expectations that are required in each setting. At BSI, evaluations are only conducted by a psychologist or a therapist who has extensive experience with behavioral assessment and diagnosis.
A comprehensive evaluation is an effective tool for determining the developmental, social, behavioral, mental health, educational, or vocational needs of an individual. An evaluation typically involves one or more interviews, observations, and standardized assessment measures. Whenever possible, information from a variety of sources is gathered. Several factors, including the individual's cultural background, learning history, and medical conditions, are considered when interpreting assessment results. Evaluations may culminate in a diagnosis, when appropriate, but are primarily used to develop appropriate recommendations or a treatment plan.
First Steps Evaluations are offered to families receiving services from Indiana's early intervention program. First Steps serves families with infants and toddlers (ages birth to three) who meet eligibility criteria (developmental delay or condition that makes developmental delay probable) and show a need for ongoing services. Evaluations are designed to assess how a child's development and behaviors compare to the typical development of children that are the same age. First Steps services are made available until a child no longer needs help or turns three years old. If you would like more information about the First Steps program, visit Northwest Indiana First Steps at www.nwifs.org.
BSI is a First Steps provider in Porter and Lake Counties. Psychological/ behavioral evaluations funded by First Steps are completed by a Licensed Psychologist. Evaluations typically involve a comprehensive interview of the child's parents or caregivers, observation of the child, and completion of relevant assessment measures. In addition to comparing the child's development to same-aged peers, the experiences and competencies of the child and environmental variables (e.g., caregivers, siblings, culture, living conditions) that contribute to the child's development (i.e., adjustment and adaptation) are assessed. A diagnosis is provided, when appropriate. If additional services will be beneficial, continued behavioral treatment may be recommended. If your child already receives First Steps services and you would like to have an evaluation, please contact your child's Service Coordinator at 1-800-387-7837.