Psychological Assessment
Dr. Vernon is an expert at ADHD and autism assessment in the Santa Barbara area. Psychological assessment is the process of using standardized assessment tools, observations, interviews, and historical information to develop a comprehensive understanding of a person, clarify their strengths and vulnerabilities, identify clinical concerns and diagnoses, and provide support recommendations to improve their quality of life. In some cases, a clinical diagnosis can support the need for early intervention, a special education designation, in-home therapeutic services, work accommodations, and/or disability claims.
Dr. Vernon is an experienced diagnostician who specializes in the assessment of toddlers, children, adolescents, and adults suspected of having a wide range of conditions, including autism, ADHD, developmental delays, intellectual disability, learning disabilities, depressive and anxiety disorders, behavioral/conduct disorders, OCD/tic disorders, and gifted/twice exceptional individuals.
He uses an empowering assessment approach that focuses on identification of strengths, deep respect for diversity and intersectionality, and a positive, therapeutic feedback process with practical recommendations.
To schedule, review the information below and click the button at the bottom to contact Dr. Vernon.
PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT SERVICE DESCRIPTION
Dr. Vernon's psychological assessment process is tailored to the needs of each individual or family, but typically includes (a) in-person testing with the person being assessed, (b) interview assessment (either in-person, online, or over the phone) conducted with a parent, caregiver, family member, or partner, (c) a number of questionnaire/survey measures, and (d) a review of an intake packet summarizing developmental information and current challenges.
The standardized assessments used in this evaluation include interactive activities, paper-and-pencil tasks, visual puzzles, question-and-answer activities, paper questionnaires, checklist surveys, and structured interviews.
WHAT YOU WILL RECEIVE
The results of this process will be summarized in both:
-
A psychological report that is typically 12-24 pages in length. This report includes all test results, a clinical summary, diagnostic information, and clinical recommendations. The report will be finalized and sent within 30 days after the last assessment measure is completed.
-
An oral feedback session with the client and/or family. Test results and diagnoses will be summarized, and the client and/or family will have the opportunity to ask questions. This session is typically 60 minutes.
ASSESSMENT OPTIONS & FEES
​
Comprehensive Evaluation: A comprehensive evaluation is required for the assessment of autism spectrum conditions, global developmental delay/intellectual disability, and learning disabilities, while also evaluating for the presence of other co-occurring conditions and disorders. This process includes 5-6 hours of face-to-face testing and interview assessment; administration of appropriate survey measures; 6-8 hours of assessment scoring, integration, and report writing; and a 1-hour feedback session with the individual or family. The current fee for this comprehensive evaluation service is $3000.
​
Narrow Evaluation: A narrow evaluation is suitable for the specific assessment of ADHD, mood disorder, OCD/Tic disorder, or behavioral/conduct disorder. This process includes 2.5-3 hours of face-to-face testing and interview assessment, administration of appropriate survey measures, 3-4 hours of assessment scoring, integration, and report writing, and a 1-hour feedback session with the individual or family. The current fee for this narrow psychological assessment evaluation service is $1500.
Fees are subject to change - contact Dr. Vernon to confirm the current fee.
Additional assessment, observation, interview, or consultation services are billed at a rate of $200/hour. Fees for Independent Educational Evaluations (IEEs) and third party assessments are typically more comprehensive, require more time, and incur a higher fee.
CONFIDENTIALITY
All communication with Dr. Vernon will remain private and confidential while adhering to all applicable laws regarding limits to confidentiality and mandated reporting. Physical records are stored in locked, secure locations and digital records are securely stored on encrypted computers or cloud storage services. Dr. Vernon will not share clinical information over email and encourages clients and family members to refrain from using email and text to share any clinical information with him.
​
INSURANCE INFORMATION
Dr. Vernon does not currently accept health insurance for his psychological services. Upon request, he can provide a detailed invoice with CPT Service Codes and ICD-10 Diagnostic Codes that can be submitted to insurance companies for reimbursement. In most cases, Dr. Vernon's services are considered out-of-network, which can limit reimbursement with some providers.
EMERGENCY CIRCUMSTANCES
Individuals are instructed to call 911 or visit their local hospital’s emergency room for any medical or psychiatric emergency requiring immediate assistance due to imminent danger to themselves or others. Dr. Vernon does not provide 24-hour hour crisis services. He is not typically available outside of scheduled session times and is not able to deescalate someone during a medical or mental health emergency.
SCHEDULING & QUESTIONS
If you have would like to schedule a psychological assessment or have questions about the assessment process or policies, you can contact Dr. Vernon using the button below.
​