What to Expect

At Smith & Calabrese Assessments, we aim to make the evaluation process clear, supportive, and efficient. While each referral is unique, most evaluations follow a similar structure. Below is an overview of what you can expect, with important distinctions depending on the type of evaluation you’ve been referred for.

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Before Your Appointment:

To help you perform at your best:

• Get a good night’s rest the evening before

• Eat a balanced breakfast the morning of your appointment

• Bring any relevant documents (reports, IEPs, medical records, etc.)

• Review your referral letter carefully to confirm your appointment time, location, and assigned provider

If you have questions prior to your appointment, you are always welcome to contact our office. For state-referred evaluations, you may also reach out directly to your assigned DDS Disability Examiner or DORS Counselor.

 

Disability (DDS) & DORS Evaluations

These evaluations are requested by a state agency and are typically more focused in scope.

Time Commitment: Approximately 45 minutes to 2.5 hours, depending on the type of evaluation requested

What to Expect:

- A brief clinical interview to gather background information

- Completion of targeted testing measures as requested by the referring agency

- You are welcome to bring a family member or support person for additional background information; however, testing itself is completed individually

After Your Appointment:

- Your report is submitted directly to DDS or DORS within 2 business weeks 

- To obtain a copy of your report or next steps, you will need to follow up with your assigned examiner or counselor

 

Comprehensive Psychological Evaluations

These evaluations are more in-depth and tailored to answer specific diagnostic, academic, or emotional/behavioral questions.

Time Commitment: Typically 3 to 6 hours, depending on the referral concerns; In some cases, testing may be completed across multiple sessions

What to Expect:

- A detailed clinical interview to gather background information 

- Completion of various in-office tasks and standardized assessments

- Self-report questionnaires (paper or digital)

- When appropriate, parents, spouses, teachers, or caregivers may also be asked to complete forms to provide additional perspective

After Your Appointment:

- Your provider will score and analyze all data and prepare a comprehensive written report

- A feedback session will be scheduled to review results, discuss recommendations, and answer your questions

You will receive a copy of your report for your records

 

Our Approach

We understand that testing can feel unfamiliar or even overwhelming. Our goal is to create a space where you feel comfortable, informed, and supported throughout the process. If at any point you are unsure about what to expect, please don’t hesitate to contact our office. We’re here to guide you every step of the way.