Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

• Who can have an assessment?
• Who provides the assessments?
• Who requests an assessment?
• What is a psychosocial assessment?
• When do the assessments take place?
• Why are the assessments necessary?
• Why does the Psychologist make recommendations?
• Where is the best place to have an assessment?
• How do I start the process?

Who can have an assessment?Children in need of a specialized evaluation and follow-up support services who are deaf, deafblind, or heard of hearing, ages 0 to 21 residing in Greater Minnesota, outside the seven-county metro area.

Who provides the assessments?Licensed psychologists from all over the
United States who are experienced in understanding the physical, mental health and communication needs of deaf, deafblind and hard of hearing children. A case manager follows up with teachers and parents about the recommendations made and progress of student.

Who requests an assessment? Parents, guardians, teachers (regular classroom teachers, special education teacher, teacher of deaf, deafblind and hard of hearing), speech and language specialist, social workers to name a few.

What is a psychosocial assessment?An assessment includes a clinical interview, comprehensive testing, observation, feedback and a written report. The psychologist makes recommendations based on the results of their findings. An assessment allows a better understanding of how a student is functioning psychologically, socially, emotionally and educationally.

When do the assessments take place? After a referral has been made and an application and releases are all filled out a psychologist is matched with the identified needs of the student. Assessments are done during the school year.

Why are the assessments necessary? An assessment allows students to be seen by professionals who are experts in the areas of deafness and provide a better understanding how the student is functioning and also helping to make connections with the family, schools and community.

Why does the Psychologist make recommendations?The recommendations are very helpful to the school staff, families and other professionals. They may point out specific language needs, educational techniques, deaf mentoring, more testing for behavioral problems, etc. The recommendations let the teachers know if they have the correct educational plan in place or if they need to change it to benefit the student and if so, GMAS is are there to help.
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Where is the best place to have an assessment?Most assessments are done at the student's school. Parents and teachers are consulted with and feedback and questions are welcome.

How do I start the process?Fill out our application.