Question 1

How much direct testing time is typical?

Accepted Answer

• Ages 0–3: ~1.5 hours
 • Pre-K to Kindergarten: 3–4.5 hours split across 2–3 sessions
 • School-aged and older: 7–9 hours, split across 2–3 sessions
Every child is different. Some children finish in less time, while others may need extra sessions. Either way, the evaluation always moves at your child’s pace. If more time is needed, additional sessions are included at no cost.

Question 2

What is included in a comprehensive evaluation?

Accepted Answer

• Parent intake meeting
 • In-person testing with Dr. Patel
 • Review of questionnaires and records
 • A child-friendly review session
 • A detailed written report with individualized recommendations
 • Parent feedback meeting
 • Flexibility for extra testing sessions as needed

Question 3

Do you provide school observations as part of the evaluation?

Accepted Answer

Most of the time, we get the clearest and most reliable information from parent perspectives, teacher input, records, and in-clinic testing. A short classroom visit can be expensive and may not reflect your child’s overall skills.

That said, observations may be available if families feel strongly about it for those in preschool/elementary school:
 • Ages 0–3: Optional play-based observation at Spirited Play Lab in Belmont is included in the evaluation
 • Elementary School aged:
    • $500 for a 45-minute observation within 20 minutes of San Carlos (Redwood City, Belmont, San Mateo, Menlo Park, Palo Alto, Burlingame, Foster City, Atherton)
    • If outside this radius: $400 for the observation plus $250/hour for travel
    • Zoom observations may be possible if schools allow
    • Families and schools may also share videos of the child in home, school, or therapy environments, which is often a flexible and cost-effective option
Observations are scheduled only if time allows. This is the only additional cost beyond the comprehensive evaluation fee.

Question 4

Do you offer payment plans or reduced fees?

Accepted Answer

We do not offer sliding scales or payment plans. We encourage families to check their out-of-network insurance coverage for reimbursement. For some younger children, Regional Center or early intervention programs may also be available (we can provide guidance on where to start).

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