Disability Resources and Services

The following information will assist you in understanding the diagnostic procedures necessary to be evaluated for a Learning Disorder.

InformationPlease be advised that the University of Pittsburgh Office of Disability Resources and Services, the University Counseling Center and Student Health Services DO NOT provide evaluations for learning disabilities.

Youwill have to determine if proceeding with an evaluation is needed for you at this time.

There is only one way to be properly evaluated for a learning disability

Obtain a comprehensive neuropsychological evaluation.

What is a Neuropsychological Evaluation?

• A neuropsychological evaluation is a comprehensive assessment of cognitive and behavioral functions using a set of standardized tests and procedures. Various mental functions are systematically tested, including, but not limited

to: • Intelligence • Problem solving and conceptualization • Planning and organization • Attention, memory, and learning • Language • Academic skills • Perceptual and motor abilities

• Emotions, behavior, and personality

Why should I have these functions evaluated?

This is the most accurate way to obtain a “blue print” of how you learn and process information. Your blueprint will be compared to others to determine if there is a learning problem.

How do I go about obtaining a neuropsychological evaluation?

1. Contact your PCP or medical insurance company for a list of psychologists who are trained to perform neuropsychological testing in your coverage area.

2. Contact Disability Resources and Services for a list of neuropsychologists who are accepting new patients in Pittsburgh. E-mail drsrecep@pitt.edu to request a referral list.

3. Contact a disability office of a college or university in your home town for a list of area neuropsychologists.

4. Contact the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation for your home State State Vocational Rehabilitation Agencies.

What can I expect if I do decide to get a neuropsychological evaluation?

• An out of pocket expense. Comprehensive examinations can costs upwards of $1500.00 and insurance is typically not accepted.

• An accurate determination if you do or do not have a learning disability.

I have obtained an diagnosis of a learning disorder, now what?

• Individuals requesting reasonable accommodations for academic courses should contact DRS (412.648.7890) to schedule an intake appointment with a disability specialist.

I still have questions

• If after reviewing this presentation you still have questions regarding obtaining an evaluation for a learning disability please e-mail your questions to:

Ms. Leigh Culley, Coordinator of Services, Disability Resources and Services @ lculley@pitt.edu.