What is a screening?

A screening is a one and a half hour interview looking at a broad range of historical, academic, study habits / skills, academic frustrations and emotional components. The screening will not yield a diagnosis, rather, it assists in the decision making process for recommending the next step in the process, the Triage Committee.

Is my screening confidential?

All information is confidential, unless you sign a release, indicate intent of harming yourself or others, indicate past or present child abuse, or in the case of a medical emergency.

How do I get tested?

If you are frustrated with your learning, the first step is to visit Learning Resource Centers to schedule a screening appointment. You will be given a small packet of introductory paperwork to complete and return. A screening appointment is usually available in 1 to 2 weeks.

What happens after the screening?

A recommendation will be made, typically for a comprehensive diagnostic assessment (i.e. testing) at the Center for Learning Strategies clinic, or more fully using JMU resources. If you are not a candidate for testing, the process ends at this point.

What do I do if I am not a candidate for testing?

You will be encouraged to seek out and utilize existing university resources such as Learning Resource Centers or the Counseling and Student Development Center.

What is involved in assessment?

Typically, testing is completed in two to three weeks, but is dependent on the student's schedule. You will be given tests of cognitive functioning, achievement, symptoms check-list, processing, and personality characteristics. These are standardized tests administered one-on-one. Cost is $350.00 for a standard psycho educational battery and $500 for the neuropsychological battery (only necessary for certain cases).

What can I do to prepare for the assessment?

• Arrive for your appointment on time
• Be well-rested and comfortable
• Be ready to do your best
• Eat beforehand since testing sessions last up to four hours
• Do not spend time studying: it is neither recommended nor required
• If you are on prescription medication, take or bring your medication so your condition(s) will not detract from the session.
• If you require eyeglasses, etc., bring them to the testing session.
• Refrain from using alcohol and/or illegal drugs before testing sessions.

How long will I wait on the waiting list?

Since the demand is high for assessments, you may be placed on a waiting list. The waiting list lasts approximately 60 days.

Can I get tested anywhere else?

Yes. A list of local psychologists is available by request.

When should I expect results?

Results are typically given in three to four weeks after the testing is completed.

What will be in the report?

The report will include a reason for referral, tests administered, brief background information, relevant behavior observations, major findings, and recommendations. A diagnosis, if given, will be in the major findings sections.

What happens if I am diagnosed with a disability that impacts learning?

If you receive a diagnosis that substantially impacts learning, you should contact Disability Services in Wilson Hall - Room 105 to discuss learning support services and accommodations.  You must bring a copy of your assessment report to Disability Services prior to registering for services.

What other resources are available at JMU?

• Career & Academic Planning - Wilson Hall 2nd Floor
• Counseling & Student Development Center - Varner House
  
• Learning Resource Centers Programs & Services:

• • Learning Strategies Instruction - Roop Hall, 2nd Floor
  • Supplemental Instruction -Wilson Hall - 4th Floor
  • Disability Services - Wilson Hall 1st Floor
  • Speech Services  - Wilson Hall 4th Floor
  • Writing Consultations - Wilson Hall 4th Floor
  • English Language Learner Services - Wilson Hall 4th Floor
    
  • Science &Math Learning Center - Roop Hall 2nd Floor

• First Year Involvement & Office of Residence Life - Huffman Hall - For First Year students to work on honing their academic skills at the University level.

To Schedule a Screening or Request Additional Information Please Contact:

 

Kirsten Burley, Screening & Assessment GA

Learning Resource Centers

Wilson Hall, Room 105

Phone: 568-7146

burleykl@jmu.edu