BEHAVIORAL and SOCIAL EMOTIONAL ASSESSMENTS
BEHAVIORAL & SOCIAL-EMOTIONAL
Gain a deep understanding of the root causes behind challenging behaviors and the social-emotional factors impacting your child’s development. Receive targeted recommendations to effectively manage behaviors and support your child’s emotional well-being and social success.
Social-Emotional and Behavioral Evaluations
A behavioral or social-emotional educational evaluation is an assessment conducted to understand a student’s emotional well-being, behavior, and how these factors impact their ability to succeed in school.
Key points regarding the evaluation:
- Assessment of Emotional and Behavioral Functioning:
It evaluates areas such as anxiety, depression, attention difficulties, aggression, impulsivity, social skills, and emotional regulation to identify challenges that may affect learning and peer relationships. - Use of Multiple Data Sources:
The evaluation includes standardized rating scales, behavioral observations, student interviews, teacher and parent questionnaires, and reviews of disciplinary or academic records to gather a comprehensive picture. - Identifies Impact on Academic Performance:
It examines how social-emotional and behavioral factors influence the student’s academic engagement, classroom behavior, and overall school functioning, helping determine if these issues contribute to learning difficulties. - Guides Intervention and Support Plans:
The results inform the development of behavior intervention plans (BIPs), counseling goals, or recommendations for services through an IEP or 504 Plan to support the student’s emotional and behavioral needs in the school setting.
Does My Child Need an Evaluation?
A student who may need a behavioral or social-emotional evaluation often displays patterns of behavior or emotional difficulties that interfere with their academic performance, social interactions, or daily functioning at school. Here are some common signs and concerns that might indicate the need for such an evaluation:
Emotional Regulation Difficulties
- Frequent mood swings or intense emotional reactions disproportionate to the situation
- Persistent sadness, tearfulness, or signs of depression
- Excessive worry, anxiety, or fear that affects participation in school activities
- Difficulty calming down after becoming upset
Behavioral Challenges
- Frequent outbursts, aggression (physical or verbal), or oppositional behaviors
- Impulsive actions without considering consequences
- Defiance toward authority figures or refusal to follow rules
- Difficulty staying on task or easily frustrated with academic challenges
Social Difficulties
- Trouble making or maintaining friendships
- Withdrawal from peers, isolation, or lack of interest in social interactions
- Difficulty understanding social cues, body language, or maintaining conversations
- Conflicts with peers or teachers due to poor social problem-solving skills
Signs of Trauma or Stress
- Hypervigilance, exaggerated startle responses, or signs of being easily triggered
- Changes in behavior following a stressful event (e.g., family issues, loss, bullying)
- Regression to earlier developmental behaviors (e.g., clinginess, bedwetting in younger children)
Internalizing / Externalizing Behaviors
- Internalizing behaviors (inward-focused): withdrawal, low self-esteem, excessive guilt, somatic complaints (headaches, stomachaches without medical cause)
- Externalizing behaviors (outward-focused): disruptive behavior, acting out, rule-breaking, or risk-taking behaviors
When to Consider an Evaluation:
- The behaviors are persistent, occurring over time and across different settings (e.g., both home and school).
- The difficulties are significantly impacting the student’s academic performance, attendance, peer relationships, or classroom functioning.
- Interventions tried in the classroom or through school-based support have not been effective.
An evaluation helps to identify underlying causes, such as emotional disorders, attention difficulties, trauma responses, or social skill deficits and guides appropriate supports or interventions.
BEHAVIORAL & SOCIO-EMOTIONAL ASSESMENTS
How We Assess Behavioral and Social-Emotional Concerns
INITIAL CONSULTATION & CLINICAL INTERVIEWS
A meeting with a psychologist or specialist to discuss concerns related to the student’s behavior, emotions, and social functioning. In-depth interviews with the student, parents, and teachers help gather detailed information about the student’s developmental, emotional, and behavioral history, as well as the impact on daily life.
BEHAVIORAL OBSERVATION
Direct observation of the student in different settings (e.g., classroom, playground, or home) to identify patterns of behavior, emotional responses, social interactions, and how the student copes with various situations.
Standardized Questionnaires & Rating Scales
Parents, teachers, and sometimes the student complete questionnaires that assess emotional well-being, behavior, social skills, and self-regulation. These tools help measure areas such as anxiety, depression, aggression, attention to tasks, and peer relationships.
Social-Emotional & Behavioral Assessments
Comprehensive evaluation using standardized tools to assess areas such as emotional regulation, coping strategies, social problem-solving skills, and behavioral functioning. This may include assessments for anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, or conduct-related issues.
FEEDBACK & RECOMMENDATIONS
The evaluator provides a detailed report summarizing the findings, identifying any behavioral or social-emotional concerns (diagnoses if applicable), and offering tailored recommendations. These may include strategies for classroom support, behavioral interventions, counseling services, or social skills training to help the student succeed both academically and socially.
Outcomes of a Behavioral and Social-Emotional Evaluation
As you navigate the ups and downs of your child’s behavioral and social-emotional journey, remember that your love and support are invaluable. By understanding their needs and advocating for them, you’re already taking critical steps to help them thrive. You’re not alone—many parents share this journey, and together, we can celebrate our children’s unique gifts.
CLARITY OF CONCERNS
The evaluation provides a clear understanding of your child’s behavioral and social-emotional challenges. This clarity helps identify the root causes of difficulties, such as emotional regulation issues, anxiety, or social struggles, opening the door to appropriate support.
COMPREHENSIVE REPORT
You will receive a detailed report summarizing the evaluation findings. This document includes insights from various assessments, observations, and interviews, offering a complete picture of your child’s emotional well-being, behavioral patterns, and social functioning.
Recognizing Strengths & Challenges
The evaluation highlights not only the areas where your child may struggle, such as managing emotions, coping with stress, or interacting with peers, but also their unique strengths. This balanced perspective helps you celebrate their positive qualities while addressing areas of need.
Personalized Recommendations
You’ll receive tailored strategies and interventions designed specifically for your child. This may include recommendations for classroom accommodations, behavior intervention plans, social skills support, or counseling services to help them academically and emotionally thrive.
Identifying Co-occurring Concerns
The evaluation may uncover additional factors, such as learning difficulties, mood disorders, or trauma-related issues. Understanding these overlapping concerns helps ensure your child receives comprehensive support that addresses all aspects of their development.
Collaborative Action Plan
An action plan will be created with educators, specialists, and you as the parent. This plan outlines consistent strategies for home and school, fostering a team approach to supporting your child’s growth, well-being, and academic success.
Questions & Answers
Behavioral & Social-Emotional Evaluation FAQs
The evaluation typically includes an initial consultation, standardized questionnaires, behavioral observations, and interviews with you, your child, and educators if needed. We assess your child’s emotional well-being, behavior patterns, and social skills to get a comprehensive understanding of their strengths and challenges.
The entire evaluation process usually takes about four weeks, from the initial consultation to the final feedback session. We’ll keep you informed at every step to ensure you feel supported throughout the process.
Yes, your child will participate in various assessments designed to measure emotional functioning, behavior regulation, social skills, and coping strategies. Our team ensures the testing environment is comfortable and supportive to help your child feel at ease.
That’s perfectly okay! The evaluation will still provide valuable insights into your child’s emotional, social, and behavioral functioning. We’ll help identify any areas of concern and recommend appropriate supports and strategies to help your child thrive.
Absolutely! The evaluation can be conducted virtually, as all our psychologists are trained to perform assessments online. This flexibility allows you to choose a convenient and comfortable setting for your child.
After the evaluation, we’ll provide a detailed report with findings and personalized recommendations tailored to your child’s needs. We’ll schedule a feedback session to discuss the results, answer your questions, and explore next steps together.
- Support Strategies:
- Structured Routines: Establish consistent daily routines to provide comfort, predictability, and a sense of security.
- Positive Reinforcement: Celebrate small successes to boost your child’s confidence and motivation, focusing on effort and progress.
- Clear Communication: Use simple, direct language to help your child understand expectations, reducing frustration for both of you.
- Children with Behavioral or Social-Emotional Challenges Have Unique Strengths:
- Resilience: Many children develop strong coping strategies, showing remarkable strength in the face of challenges.
- Empathy: Experiencing emotional struggles can deepen a child’s ability to connect with and support others.
- Creativity: Unique perspectives often lead to innovative thinking and creative problem-solving.
- Determination: Overcoming obstacles can foster a strong sense of determination and perseverance.
- Home/School Collaborative Approach:
- Build Strong Partnerships: Work closely with teachers, counselors, and school staff to create individualized support plans that address your child’s needs.
- Consistent Communication: Maintain open lines of communication with educators to monitor progress and adjust strategies as needed.
- Empower Your Child: Talk with your child about their strengths and challenges, reinforcing that they are not alone and that support is always available.
Behavioral & Social-Emotional Resources for Parents and Educators
Parenting & Behavior Management Resources
- The Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL):A leading resource for understanding and implementing social-emotional learning (SEL) both at home and in schools.
- The Child Mind Institute: Provides resources on behavioral challenges, emotional issues, and learning disorders, along with tips for managing behavior at home.
- Positive Parenting Solutions: Offers strategies for behavior management, emotional coaching, and building strong parent-child relationships.
Mental Health & Emotional Well-being Resources
- National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): Provides support, education, and advocacy for mental health issues affecting children and families.
- Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA): Offers resources for understanding and managing anxiety, depression, and related behavioral challenges in children.
- Mental Health America (MHA): Provides screening tools, resources, and advocacy information for mental health support.
School & Educational Resources
- Understood.org: Focuses on helping parents and educators support children with learning and attention issues, including social-emotional challenges.
- PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports):Offers evidence-based behavioral strategies used in schools to support positive student behavior.
- The National Association of School Psychologists (NASP): Provides resources for supporting children’s behavioral, academic, and mental health needs in school settings.
Social Skills & Emotional Regulation Tools
- The Zones of Regulation: A framework for teaching children emotional regulation and self-control strategies.
- Social Thinking: Offers resources to help children develop social problem-solving skills and improve social interactions.
- GoZen!: Provides animated programs and tools for teaching kids resilience, anxiety management, and emotional regulation.
Crisis and Immediate Support Resources
- National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (988): Call or text 988 for immediate mental health support and crisis intervention.
- Crisis Text Line: Text HELLO to 741741 for free, 24/7 support from trained crisis counselors.
- SAMHSA’s National Helpline: Call 1-800-662-HELP (4357) for confidential support and resources related to mental health and substance use.
Books for Parents & Educators
- The Whole-Brain Child by Daniel J. Siegel and Tina Payne Bryson Offers strategies for nurturing emotional intelligence and managing challenging behaviors.
- Raising Human Beings by Dr. Ross W. Greene Focuses on collaborative problem-solving to support behavior and emotional regulation.
- Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol S. Dweck Explores how developing a growth mindset can positively impact behavior and learning.
What Our Clients Are Saying
"Cornerstone was such a blessing to our family. She gave us the information we needed and a plan to follow to help our son. We are eternally grateful."
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"After many years of having IEPs and never understanding why my daughter struggled, I now understand! With Cornerstone, I finally have answers and truly understand what is going on with my daughter."
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"This evaluation was thorough and gave us the information we needed to advocate for our child."
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Meet Dr. Christy Bock, Psy.D, LEP
Christy brings a wealth of experience as a Licensed Educational Psychologist (LEP #3063) and a seasoned school psychologist for over 25 years. Growing up with dyslexia, Christy knows firsthand how tough learning difficulties can be. As a mother of six with special needs children, she truly understands the struggles parents face in supporting their kids’ unique needs.
Since founding Cornerstone in 2008, Christy and her team have performed countless Independent Educational Evaluations (IEEs) across the state. She has served as an expert witness in court and co-created an Educational Custody Evaluation to aid special needs students in custody cases.
Under her leadership, Cornerstone has expanded nationwide, providing essential support to schools and families across the country.
Schedule a free clarity call to speak with a licensed educational psychologist about what is going on with your child.
We are here for you and your family.
Frequently Asked Questions
Our incredible team is distributed throughout California and are available to meet with you and your child in-person or virtually to complete our educational assessment(s).
When your child is struggling and despite their effort, they are still struggling academically, a psychoeducational evaluation might be the answer. The psychoeducational evaluation answers the “WHY” to why your child is struggling. By taking a comprehensive dive into your child’s
cognitive abilities, academic achievement, and processing skills, we are able to understand and address all learning difficulties and specifically look at areas of concern like dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, ADHD, to name a few. A psychoeducational evaluation helps pinpoint the exact areas your child struggles and gives you a roadmap towards intervention.
Does your child struggle academically, have difficulty focusing, show signs of learning challenges despite effort and support or exhibit social-emotional and behavioral issues, an educational assessment can provide the “WHY” behind these concerns and can help lay out a roadmap to intervention.
Our process begins with scheduling a clarity call where you can discuss your frustrations and concerns. Based on this discussion, we match you with the most suitable team member to start the evaluation.
We understand the urgency and are ready to begin testing right away, moving at a pace that suits your needs. Throughout the process, we keep you informed and updated. Once the evaluation is complete, we present the results in a clear and understandable meeting, providing you with actionable recommendations.
An evaluation with Cornerstone can move at the pace you want. Most of our families want to move quickly, and we love to jump in and complete the evaluation as quickly as you need. The typical timeframe is 3 to 4 weeks, but it can be quicker if needed.
Our evaluations are conducted by licensed evaluators and can help support the need for accommodations, a 504 Accommodation Plan, or even an IEP. Often, schools prefer to conduct their own evaluations for an IEP, but the evaluation through Cornerstone can lay the framework for displaying the need.
An educational assessment provides a thorough understanding of your child’s strengths and challenges. It offers actionable recommendations for tailored interventions, which can improve academic performance, enhance emotional well-being, and address behavioral issues. Without an evaluation, most parents are guessing as to what area to focus intervention but with a full evaluation, you know EXACTLY where to focus so time and money are saved.
The cost of an educational assessment varies depending on the type and scope of the evaluation. Please contact us for specific pricing and to discuss your needs.
Typically NO, but we are able to provide a Superbill that you can submit to your insurance for reimbursement, and some parents are able to have the evaluations covered by insurance, but typically they are not covered. If you have a Health Savings Account (HSA) you are able to pay for the evaluation through HSA funds.
Scheduling an assessment is easy. Simply contact us via phone or email to set up a free clarity call. During this call, we’ll discuss your concerns and determine the best evaluation plan for your child.
Our evaluators are licensed with extensive experience conducting educational assessments and providing expert recommendations in and out of the schools. They are trained to work with children of all ages and learning profiles as well as adults.
Yes, we have bilingual psychologists, speech pathologists as well as occupational therapists. We have assessors who are bilingual in multiple languages. Please reach out with your language needs.
YES! Assessments can be completed virtually, as all Cornerstone evaluators are trained in virtual administration, which has become an increasingly popular and in-demand assessment method.