Frequently Asked Questions

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Finding the right evaluation for your child can feel overwhelming. Our goal is to make the process clear, supportive, and practical so families understand what to expect, why testing may be recommended, and how results can guide next steps at home, school, and with your child’s care team.

 

What services do you offer?

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Comprehensive neurobehavioral diagnostic evaluations for children ages 2–18 may include assessment for autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, anxiety, OCD, ODD, learning concerns, giftedness, cognitive skills, and academic achievement. The evaluation is tailored to your child’s needs and may include caregiver input, records review, standardized rating scales, observation, and testing when appropriate.

 

Telehealth is available statewide in Florida. In-person ADOS-2 autism assessment and cognitive or academic testing takes place in our sensory-friendly office in Lakeland.

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What does an ADHD evaluation look like? How old does my child need to be to be evaluated for ADHD?

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Starting at age 4, a child can be evaluated for ADHD. The process involves a virtual comprehensive diagnostic evaluation with comprehensive behavior rating scales completed by an adult who knows the child in different environments such as parent, teacher, babysitter, other family member, tutor, etc. In some cases, cognitive screening and on-site observation by a certified teacher may be completed as well. For children 12 and up, a self-evaluation can also be completed.

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What is involved in a virtual comprehensive diagnostic evaluation?

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This involves an interview with and observation of the child by the provider. Also, a detailed review of birth, developmental, medical, academic, family history, and areas of concern. Conners Comprehensive Behavior Rating Scales evaluate for a broad range of behavioral, emotional, social, and academic issues. 

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Do you offer the ADOS-2 testing in Florida?

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Yes. We administer ADOS-2, the gold-standard, research-backed assessment for autism spectrum disorder. It can be completed as part of a full neurobehavioral evaluation or as a stand-alone assessment. The ADOS-2 is conducted in person in a private, sensory-friendly space designed to help children feel comfortable.

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Is the evaluation accepted for school services and Step Up for Students?

 

Yes. Families receive a detailed written report that may be used as supporting documentation for school planning, including 504 plans, IEP discussions, and Step Up for Students scholarship applications. Final eligibility decisions are made by the school, scholarship program, or other reviewing organization.

 

Do you take insurance?

 

No. We are a self-pay practice and do not bill insurance directly. We can provide detailed, itemized invoices that many families can submit for out-of-network reimbursement. HSA and FSA accounts are accepted.

 

Where are you located, and do you offer telehealth?

 

Our office is located at 1708 Mockingbird Lane, Lakeland, FL 33801 (inside Blue Sky Pediatrics). Comprehensive neurobehavioral assessments are available via secure telehealth for families anywhere in Florida. ADOS-2 and cognitive/academic screenings are completed in person.

 

Who provides the evaluations?

 

All comprehensive evaluations are conducted by Cara Harwell, APRN, CPNP, PMHS, a Certified Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner and Pediatric Mental Health Specialist with more than 20 years of experience in pediatric neurobehavioral care. She previously created the REACH program at Nemours Children’s Health to support children with sensory and developmental needs. ADOS-2, IQ, and Academic Achievement testing is administered by a neurobehavioral testing assistant under direct supervision of Cara Harwell, NP.

 

How much does an evaluation cost?

 

Current rates (Back-to-School special through September 30, 2026):

 

Comprehensive Neurobehavioral Assessment: $449 (regular $599)

ADOS-2 Autism Assessment: $224 (regular $299)

IQ or Academic Achievement Screening: $224 each (regular $299)

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How can I reach the provider/staff?

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Direct communication is available via text, phone, or email anytime during office hours.

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Is there a waitlist for an appointment?

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No. There is currently no waitlist, and appointments can typically be scheduled within 1 week.

 

How soon will I receive results?

 

We make every effort to provide results and visit notes within two business days after the evaluation or assessment.

 

What does a stand-alone assessment mean?

 

A stand-alone ADOS-2 assessment, IQ screening, or Academic Achievement screening can be completed when another provider or school needs specific testing information as part of a broader evaluation. Results can be sent to you and, with your permission, to your child’s provider or school team. Stand-alone testing does not replace a full neurobehavioral evaluation.

 

How can I schedule an appointment?

 

To schedule, click “Register as a New Patient” at www.harwellneurobehavioralpediatrics.com and complete the basic demographic information. Credit card information is optional. After registration, we will email you an intake form and a self-scheduling link so you can choose your child’s appointment time.

 

How long does an ADOS-2 test take?

 

An ADOS-2 assessment typically takes 40–60 minutes.

 

What is an ADOS-2 test?

 

ADOS-2 is a play-based, observational assessment that helps us better understand your child’s social communication, play, and behavior. The activities are semi-structured and often feel like play, especially for younger children. There are no right or wrong answers. The goal is to observe how your child communicates, interacts, uses imagination, and responds in familiar types of social situations. A caregiver may remain in the room for part or all of the session if it helps your child feel comfortable.

 

How long does an IQ screening take?

 

An IQ screening typically takes 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes.

 

How long does Academic Achievement screening take?

 

An Academic Achievement screening typically takes 1 hour and 15 minutes to 2 hours.

 

What is IQ screening?

 

The Woodcock-Johnson Test of Cognitive Abilities is an individually administered assessment that helps us understand your child’s cognitive strengths and learning profile. It looks at areas such as reasoning, memory, processing speed, and problem-solving. Testing takes place one-on-one with the examiner in a quiet, comfortable setting and may include puzzles, questions, memory activities, and visual tasks. Some activities feel like games, while others feel more like schoolwork. Before testing, help your child get a good night’s sleep and eat a nutritious breakfast. You can also frame the visit positively by saying, “This is an interesting way to learn how your brain works best.”

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What is Academic Achievement screening?

 

The Woodcock Johnson V Test of Achievement is a one-on-one assessment that measures academic skills in areas such as reading, math, writing, oral language, and academic knowledge. Tasks may include reading words, sentences, or passages; answering questions about what was read; solving math problems; spelling; writing sentences or stories; and answering vocabulary or general knowledge questions. Many tasks are presented orally by the examiner, and your child may respond verbally or in writing. The test adjusts based on your child’s responses so we can better understand basic skills, fluency, problem solving, and overall academic proficiency.

 

How can I prepare my child for Academic Achievement screening?

 

To prepare your child, describe the visit in a calm and positive way, such as, “You’ll read some words, do some math puzzles, and answer questions, a little like you do at home or school.” Encourage a good night’s sleep and reassure your child that the examiner is friendly, the testing environment is low pressure, and help will be available when needed.