Scope of Service
Examinations and Academic Settings
Dr. Kaplan-Naim provides evaluations and documentation for individuals seeking accommodations involving:
Clinical Basis
Conditions That Support Accommodations
An evaluation is appropriate when testing or academic performance is affected by:
The presence of a diagnosis alone does not automatically establish the need for accommodations. The evaluation must also explain how the condition currently limits the individual's functioning and why the requested accommodations are appropriate.
Accommodation Types
Commonly Requested Accommodations
Depending on the individual's documented needs, recommendations include:
Recommendations are never automatic or predetermined. They are based on the individual's history, functional limitations, behavioral observations, and evaluation findings.
Clinical Reporting
The Importance of Comprehensive Documentation
Testing organizations and educational institutions generally require more than a diagnostic label. They consider the individual's developmental and educational history, prior testing, previous accommodations, current symptoms, functional limitations, and the specific reason each accommodation is being requested.
Dr. Kaplan-Naim's reports are designed to present this information clearly and cohesively. When supported by the findings, the report explains:
The goal is to provide a thorough and individualized clinical explanation rather than simply a list of test scores or unsupported recommendations.
Historical Documentation
Previous Accommodations and Historical Records
A history of previously approved accommodations can be highly relevant. Individuals and families are encouraged to provide all available documentation, including:
The absence of complete historical records does not necessarily prevent an evaluation. Dr. Kaplan-Naim will review the available documentation and determine the most appropriate next steps.
First-Time & Returning Clients
New and Updated Evaluations
Some individuals seek an evaluation because their difficulties have never been formally identified. Others have a longstanding diagnosis but require updated documentation for college, graduate school, or a professional examination.
An updated evaluation can describe how a previously identified condition continues to affect current functioning and whether the requested accommodations remain clinically appropriate.
The assessment process is tailored to the individual's current needs and the documentation requirements of the institution or testing organization.
How It Works
An Individualized Process
Before testing begins, Dr. Kaplan-Naim reviews the individual's goals, history, prior documentation, and the requirements of the relevant school or testing organization.
She then selects an assessment battery designed to address the specific referral questions. Following the evaluation, the findings are integrated into a comprehensive written report that includes diagnostic conclusions, a description of functional limitations, and individualized recommendations when supported by the evidence.
Review Goals & History
Goals, history, prior documentation, and the requirements of the relevant school or testing organization are reviewed before testing begins.
Select Assessment Battery
An individualized assessment battery is selected to address the specific referral questions and documentation requirements.
Integrate Findings
Findings are integrated into a comprehensive written report with diagnostic conclusions, functional limitations, and individualized recommendations.
Understanding Accommodation Decisions
Dr. Kaplan-Naim provides independent clinical evaluations and carefully supported recommendations. Final decisions regarding accommodations are made solely by the college, university, professional program, or testing organization reviewing the application.
Although approval cannot be guaranteed, thorough documentation can help the reviewing organization understand the individual's condition, functional limitations, and need for the requested accommodations.
Begin the Documentation Process
If you are preparing to request accommodations, it is helpful to begin the evaluation process well before the school's or testing organization's application deadline.
Dr. Kaplan-Naim welcomes the opportunity to discuss your history, the examination or academic program involved, the documentation you currently have, and the next steps in the evaluation process.
Request a Confidential ConsultationGet in Touch
Laura Kaplan-Naim, Ph.D.
All consultations are strictly confidential. Please reach out by phone or email to schedule an initial consultation.