At Charis, we understand and practice within evidence-based evaluation models to establish DSM-V or IDC-10 diagnoses so that our clients may access services and civil rights protections. We provide evaluations for ALL AGES!
All Charis evaluations require a referral from a primary care physician or licensed healthcare provider faxed/sent to our office.
We recognize that current evaluation models are deficit – rather than difference – focused.
Disclaimer: While families are encouraged to provide evaluation documentation to their family members’ schools, where applicable, unfortunately no medical diagnosis can guarantee access to school based services. See this document for further information: (Clinical vs. School Evaluation)
Research in neurodivergence is proceeding rapidly! We work hard to keep our evaluations and therapies current and engaging.
Our Evaluation Process
INTAKE
- Charis receives a referral from a primary care physician or licensed healthcare provider, reviews the referral, then contacts the individual or parent for additional information before Evaluation Day.
- The referring provider is notified of receipt of the referral.
- Medical and school records are requested as per release forms completed by appropriate party.
- Prospective client is placed on the waiting list and a provisional evaluation date is assigned.
- Intake documentation is sent through HIPAA compliant online system. All intake documentation must be completed at least two weeks prior to the evaluation. The client will receive automatic reminders related to completing intake documentation and scheduled date of evaluation as needed.
DAY OF EVALUATION
Charis asks all clients to arrive at or slightly before the scheduled appointment time. *At the Johnson office, please wait until the appointment time to enter the office building to not disturb others’ sessions.
We highly encourage families or individuals to bring familiar comfort items (fidgets), beverages and snacks, or other items needed to feel a sense of safety and to regulate sensory considerations. These items are also available in each office.
- The appointment begins with introductions to staff and an outline of evaluation procedures. Each evaluation is approximately two hours in length with 2-3 staff members present.
- Depending upon the age, language ability, and overall presentation of the person to be evaluated, evaluations may include –
- Parent Interview
- Parent completion of paper and/or online forms, with Speech-Language Pathologist or Occupational Therapist support
- Clinical interview with client
- Interactive activities and tasks related to observation of and participation in social interaction, social communication, repetitive patterns of behavior, sensory considerations. These activities could include games, drawing or coloring, building activities (LEGOS, DUPLOS, blocks etc.)
- Formal assessment of speech and/or language as indicated by individual’s presentation
- Completion of the Childhood Autism Rating Scale, 2nd, edition, Questionnaire for Parents or Caregivers, or other diagnostic tool as indicated by individual’s age, presentation, and referral information
3. Brief consultation is provided prior to clients leaving. An additional evaluation date may be scheduled, according to information gathered that may require additional assessment. Also, our staff will assist in a discussion of treatment options and scheduling information if indicated.
REPORTING
Clients will be provided with a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation report including medical, social and education history; clinical observation notes; clinical interview notes; results of any assessments administered during the evaluation; diagnostic statement and recommendations.
Charis aims to have reports completed and sent within 4-6 weeks of the final evaluation date. Individuals or families will receive a link from the Simple Practice Portal to access the report. We encourage sharing the report with your Primary Care Provider, and with other relevant parties at your discretion.