Compassionate Dyslexia, Autism, Anxiety, and ADHD Assessments in the North Bay Area

You Deserve Clear Answers and a Path Forward

If you suspect dyslexia, autism, ADHD, anxiety, or other learning or developmental differences, you’re in the right place. We can help.

Discover how your child processes information so they can access the supports that will help them for years to come!

What You’re Noticing Matters

If you’re nodding along to any of these, you’re not alone:
These behaviors are often signs of a deeper learning, developmental, or emotional differences. We’re here to uncover what’s really going on and guide you toward what will help.

Explore the Ways We Can Help

We provide evaluations, coaching, and consultation to help children thrive. Every service is customized to your child, with easy-to-understand explanations and a plan you can act on.
Not sure exactly what your child needs? You don’t have to be! Simply reach out for a free consultation to get started. We’ll guide you through the process and help you take the next right step.
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Child-Centered Psychoeducational Evaluations

Uncover how your child learns and what they need to succeed.

If your child is struggling with reading, writing, math, focus, or behavior, and you’re not sure what’s really going on, our comprehensive psychoeducational evaluation can help.

We take a deep, individualized look at your child’s cognitive functioning, learning skills, and behaviors.

Our evaluations are designed to identify conditions like:
  • Dyslexia, dysgraphia, and dyscalculia
    ADHD and executive functioning challenges
    Autism spectrum disorder
    Anxiety and emotional regulation difficulties
Using evidence-based tools and a neurodiversity-affirming approach, we uncover your child’s learning profile, highlighting their strengths and pinpointing where they need support. You’ll get clear answers and an action plan to support their exact needs.
SCHEDULE A FREE CONSULTATION

What makes our evaluations child-centered?

After the evaluation, we don’t just talk to you, the parents, we talk directly with your child. Using age-appropriate language, we explain what we’ve learned about their brain, how it helps them, and where it needs extra support.

Our goal is to help your child feel seen, understood, and supported, not “broken” or alone. We want them to grow up understanding their unique brain and learning how to advocate for themselves.

School Neuropsychological Evaluations

A comprehensive approach to understanding how your child learns and thinks.

If you’re considering a school neuropsychological or psychoeducational evaluation, you’re in the right place. At EmpowerED, we approach both with the same level of depth, care, and expertise, and often use the terms interchangeably.

Because Bethany and Annalise are trained to conduct School Neuropsychological Evaluations, all of our evaluations are grounded in a deeper understanding of how the brain processes information and based on neuropsychological functioning.

The result is a deep understanding of your child and specific recommendations for how to support their success at home and in school.

Dyslexia Evaluations

Understand why reading feels so hard and what will help.

If your child struggles to sound out words, avoids reading, or has trouble spelling, a dyslexia evaluation can help uncover the reason behind those challenges.

Dyslexia is assessed as part of a full psychoeducational evaluation. This allows us to evaluate not only reading skills, but also how your child’s brain processes language, stores sounds, and connects letters to meaning.

When dyslexia is identified early, the right support can lead to meaningful progress. You will receive a clear explanation of results, a detailed report, and recommendations for school and home that are tailored to your child.

Learn 15 Signs Your Child May Have Dyslexia

Independent Educational Evaluations (IEEs)

When you need a second opinion that puts your child’s needs first.
If your child has had a school-based evaluation and the results don't feel complete or accurate, you have the legal right to request an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE) at the school district’s expense.

At EmpowerED, we provide thorough, student-centered IEEs for families in the San Francisco Bay Area. These evaluations are designed to offer a deeper, unbiased understanding of your child’s learning, behavior, and support needs.

We can help when:
  • You believe your child needs special education support, but the school says they don’t qualify
    Your child has an IEP, but you’re worried it’s not being followed properly
    The school is recommending fewer services, and you are not sure it’s the right move for your child
    The school evaluation did not address all of your concerns or missed key areas of need
If you're considering an IEE, we’re happy to answer your questions and help you understand the process.

Executive Functioning Coaching

Build skills that support focus, organization, and independence.
Things like planning ahead, staying organized, remembering assignments, or time management are often related to executive functioning—a set of brain-based skills that help us get things done. Many neurodiverse children struggle with these skills, which can have a negative impact on their lives into adulthood.

Our one-on-one coaching sessions help kids and teens strengthen executive function skills in a way that feels practical, supportive, and personalized.

Coaching may focus on:
  • Creating routines and visual systems
    Managing time and schoolwork
    Setting goals and breaking down tasks
    Strengthening working memory and self-monitoring
Executive functioning coaching is especially helpful for children with ADHD, learning differences, or anxiety, but it benefits any child who needs more structure and strategies to succeed.
Your child will gain tools they can use in school, at home, and as they transition into adulthood.

Behavior Support & Coaching

Learn how best to support your child in tricky moments.
If you're feeling overwhelmed by behaviors at home, you're not alone. Many families navigating autism, anxiety, or ADHD benefit from extra support in understanding and responding to their child’s unique needs.

Our behavior support services are designed specifically for parents. Led by a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), this service is always tailored to your values, goals, and your child’s neurodevelopmental profile.

Support may include:
  • Collaborative parenting strategies and home routines
    Tools to reduce overwhelm or meltdowns
    Support creating or refining school-based behavior plans
With practical tools and a plan, it becomes easier to create a calmer, more connected home life. This approach empowers you to support your child in a way that aligns with your values and works for your unique family.

IEP Consulting and School Meeting Support

Helping you make informed decisions and secure the right support for your child.
Understanding special and general education supports like IEPs and 504 plans can feel overwhelming, especially when the language is full of jargon or the next steps aren’t clear.

If you’ve received a school evaluation, are preparing for a meeting, or feel unsure about how to advocate for your child, support is available.

This service helps you:
  • Understand school evaluation reports and what they mean
    Explore your options for support, both in and outside of school
    Prepare for IEP, 504, or SST meetings with clarity and purpose
    Attend school meetings with an expert by your side, if needed
You deserve to feel informed, empowered, and confident in every decision you make for your child’s education. With the right guidance, you don’t have to navigate it alone.

IQ Testing for Private School Admissions

Supportive, school-aligned assessments to help your child take the next step.

Many private schools require IQ testing as part of the admissions or placement process. If you’ve been asked to provide cognitive testing for your child, we’re here to make the process clear, smooth, and stress-free.

Our evaluations are tailored to meet the specific requirements of independent and private schools. More importantly, we take the time to ensure your child feels comfortable, understood, and confident throughout the assessment.

What you can expect:

  • A warm, child-centered approach that reduces anxiety
    Testing that meets school requirements and deadlines
    A clear, professional report with scores and interpretation
    Fast turnaround and communication if questions arise

Whether you’re preparing for kindergarten or a gifted program, you’ll have the documentation and support you need to move forward with confidence.

FAQs

What does a psychoeducational evaluation include?

A psychoeducational evaluation looks at how your child thinks, learns, and processes information. It typically includes assessments of cognitive abilities, academic skills, attention, memory, executive functioning, and social-emotional development. We combine testing with observations and input from parents and teachers to build a complete picture of your child’s strengths and challenges. The result is a clear set of findings and personalized recommendations to support your child at school and at home.

How do you get tested for autism?

Autism is identified through a comprehensive evaluation that looks at social communication, behavior, sensory processing, and developmental history. We use standardized assessments, observations, and input from parents, teachers, and caregivers to understand how your child interacts with the world. If you have concerns about autism, you can contact us directly to schedule an evaluation. No referral is needed.

How do you get tested for dyslexia?

Testing for dyslexia is part of a comprehensive evaluation that looks at reading, spelling, writing, and how your child processes language. We use standardized assessments, observations, and information from parents and teachers to understand your child’s learning profile. If your child is struggling with reading, you can contact us directly to schedule an evaluation.

How long does a neuropsychological evaluation take?

Neuropsychological evaluations typically take several hours spread over multiple sessions. Most children are seen for two to three sessions, each lasting about 2 to 3 hours, depending on their age, needs, and attention span. This approach helps ensure your child stays comfortable and gives their best effort throughout the process.

Will I get a written report with results?

Yes. After the evaluation, you will receive a detailed written report that explains the results, diagnoses, if applicable, and personalized recommendations to support your child at home and in school.

What makes your evaluations “child-centered”?

We take time to build rapport, use age-appropriate tools, and adapt our approach to help your child feel at ease. We also speak directly with your child after the evaluation, using language they can understand to explain what we learned about how their brain works and how we can support them. Our goal is for every child to feel seen, understood, and empowered.

Do you help with IEP meetings?

Yes. We help families prepare for IEP meetings and can attend the meetings with you if needed. We review school documents, explain your child’s rights, and make sure your concerns are clearly understood. Our goal is to help you feel confident and supported as you advocate for your child.

What is an executive functioning coach?

An executive functioning coach helps kids and teens build skills like organization, time management, planning, and follow-through. These skills are essential for success in school and everyday life. Coaching sessions are practical and personalized, helping your child learn strategies that work for their unique brain and build confidence along the way.