How to Know If Your Child Needs a Psychological Evaluation

Reviewed by Taylor Agate, PhD, Neuropsychology Post-Doctoral Fellow As a parent, it can be difficult to know whether your child’s struggles are just part of growing up—or a sign that something deeper is going on. All children experience ups and downs, but when challenges persist or start to interfere with daily life, it may be time to seek professional guidance. A psychological evaluation can offer clarity and direction, especially when your child or teen is showing consistent signs of emotional, behavioral, or academic difficulties. At Sasco River Center, we provide comprehensive assessments for youth and their families in Darien, Wilton, and surrounding Connecticut communities, helping parents better understand and support their child’s mental health.

What Is a Psychological Evaluation?

A psychological evaluation is a thorough, structured process that helps identify what may be contributing to a child’s struggles. It’s not about labeling—it’s about understanding. Evaluations often include interviews, questionnaires, and if needed, cognitive and academic testing/screening. In some cases, your provider may also recommend a psychiatric evaluation if medication or a more in-depth diagnostic understanding is needed. The results of the evaluation can help answer important questions:

Does my child meet criteria for a diagnosis, like depression or anxiety?
Are there learning differences impacting school performance?
What are my child’s strengths and areas for growth?
What support or treatment would help?

Signs Your Child Might Need an Evaluation

Every child is different, but certain warning signs may indicate that it’s time to explore a psychological assessment:

Persistent sadness, worry, or irritability
Difficulty focusing, following directions, or sitting still
Sudden drop in grades or loss of interest in school
Trouble with behavioral problems at home or in class
Withdrawing from friends or avoiding social situations
Sleep problems, appetite changes, or frequent physical complaints
Talking about self-harm or expressing hopelessness

If your child is experiencing more than one of these symptoms—or if you feel something just isn’t right—trust your gut. Evaluations are not about judgment; they’re about understanding what your child needs. We work with children and families throughout Darien, Wilton, and nearby areas to address concerns early and provide clear next steps.

Common Concerns We Assess

Our team evaluates a wide range of emotional and developmental challenges in children and teens, including:

Anxiety and depression
Behavioral and impulse control issues
Adjustment issues after major life changes
Autism spectrum concerns
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
Learning differences (dyslexia, dysgraphia, etc.)

We tailor each assessment to the child’s age, developmental stage, and specific areas of concern.

What the Process Looks Like

Parent and Child Interviews – We begin with a conversation to understand your child’s history, behavior, and current challenges.
Testing Sessions – Your child will participate in age-appropriate tasks and activities designed to measure emotional and behavioral functioning, as well as cognition and academic skills if needed.
Feedback and Recommendations – Once testing is complete, we’ll meet with you to go over the results, answer questions, and provide a clear, personalized recommendations.
Ongoing Support – If desired, we’ll communicate with schools, therapists, or your mental health professional to ensure your child’s support team is aligned and informed.

When in Doubt, Ask

One of the most common things we hear from parents is, “I wish we’d done this sooner.” You don’t have to wait until your child or teen is in crisis to seek help. A psychological evaluation can offer peace of mind, clarify your next steps, and—most importantly—help your child feel seen, supported, and understood.

The Power of Early Understanding

Getting a clear picture of your child’s needs early on can make a huge difference in their development. The sooner you understand what’s behind their struggles, the sooner you can connect them with the right support—setting them up for success both now and in the future. If you're wondering whether your child could benefit from an evaluation, reach out to Sasco River Center today. Our team is here to walk with you through every step of the process—with compassion, professionalism, and a deep commitment to your child’s well-being.