Originally published 8/9/2024
Since it’s summer, you might be thinking about getting tested so you can get the support you need at school and in other parts of your life. Here is some simple information about how to ask for help through your school. Every school is a little different, but this is usually how it works.
If you’re in middle school or high school:
Step 1: The first step is often for your school and family to set up testing. Testing helps show what you are good at and where you may need extra help. You and your family may have two choices:
- Free testing done through your school, called psychoeducational testing
- Testing paid for by your family and your family’s insurance, called neuropsychological testing
Both types of tests usually involve activities like solving puzzles or answering questions, either out loud or on paper. But only the neuropsychological tests can give a formal diagnosis.
Step 2: If you’re having trouble in a specific area, your school might refer you to a specialist such as an occupational therapist, physical therapist, or speech/language therapist for extra help in figuring out what you need.
Step 3: If the team thinks you may have a neurodivergent or mental health condition, they might send you to someone who can give a final diagnosis.
Step 4: If the specialists also think you need support at school, your family and the school team will talk about what kind of educational plan you need. You might get an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) or a 504 Plan. These plans describe the supports you’ll get at school to help you succeed.
If you’re in college or reading this for later, the process usually looks like this:
Step 1: Talk to your school counselor
Step 2: They will refer you to a mental health professional on campus
Step 3: That professional may send you to a specialist who can make a diagnosis.
Step 4: After you get diagnosed, your college’s accessibility services office can help you get support and accommodations. This office might have a different name at your school.