Dyslexia Testing in San Diego

Neuropsychological Assessment for Children, Adolescents, and Adults (Ages 7+)

How Dyslexia Affects Reading, Writing, and Daily Life

Dyslexia is one of the most common learning disorders, affecting an estimated 15–20% of the population— yet it’s also one of the most frequently missed. Many people with dyslexia are never formally identified, especially if they’ve found ways to compensate over time.

That compensation can look different depending on age. A child might work twice as hard as classmates just to keep up with reading assignments. A teenager might avoid reading aloud or gravitate away from text-heavy courses. An adult might have spent years assuming they were a “slow reader” without understanding why, or feeling the strain of reading-intensive work without a clear explanation for the difficulty.

Dyslexia is not a reflection of intelligence. It’s a neurodevelopmental condition that affects specific reading-related skills, including decoding words, reading fluently, spelling, and processing written language, while leaving other cognitive abilities, like reasoning and problem-solving, intact. The challenge is that without a formal evaluation, it can be difficult to distinguish dyslexia from other conditions that affect reading, like ADHD or anxiety.

At KMN Psych, dyslexia testing is part of our broader learning disabilities evaluation services. Our evaluations examine the underlying cognitive processes behind reading difficulty—not just whether a problem exists, but why it’s happening and what specific support is most likely to help.

Neuropsych testing, without the fuss.

We are passionate about making comprehensive neuropsychological evaluation simple and accessible for everyone.

Signs of Dyslexia by Age

Dyslexia looks different at different stages of life. While all children develop reading skills at their own pace, persistent patterns of difficulty—especially ones that don’t resolve with standard instruction—may indicate the need for a formal evaluation. Below are some of the more recognizable signs across age groups.

Adult student, reading outside univeristy

Adults (ages 18+)

Many adults with dyslexia were never formally identified during childhood. They may have compensated well enough academically but still experience slow reading speed, fatigue during reading-intensive tasks, persistent spelling difficulties despite a strong vocabulary, and avoidance of reading or writing in professional settings. Adults who recognize these patterns—especially those pursuing higher education or navigating increasing professional demands—may benefit from a neuropsychological evaluation to better understand their cognitive profile.

Neuropsychological Testing vs. School-Based Evaluation

Many parents first learn about dyslexia through their child’s school, and school-based evaluations serve an important purpose: they determine whether a student qualifies for special education services under IDEA. However, school evaluations are designed to assess educational eligibility, not to provide a clinical diagnosis or explain the cognitive processes behind the reading difficulty.

A neuropsychological evaluation takes a different approach. Rather than measuring only whether a student is performing below grade level, it examines why the difficulty exists—assessing functions like phonological processing, memory, processing speed, and executive functioning to identify the specific cognitive patterns contributing to the problem.

This distinction matters because two students who both read below grade level may have very different cognitive profiles and may need very different support. One child’s reading difficulty might stem from a core phonological processing deficit. Another’s might be driven primarily by attention or working memory. A neuropsych evaluation identifies those differences, which leads to more targeted recommendations.

At KMN Psych, our evaluations pair standardized academic achievement measures with cognitive testing to compare how a person performs academically against their overall cognitive ability. This approach provides a more complete diagnostic picture than academic testing alone.

Dyslexia Evaluation Process at KMN Psych

Our dyslexia evaluations follow the same structured process used across all of KMN Psych’s neuropsychological assessments. The process is designed to be thorough without being overwhelming—each step builds on the one before it, and our team walks you through what to expect along the way.

Initial Consultation

The evaluation begins with a consultation to gather relevant history — including medical background, developmental milestones, academic history, and current concerns. For children and adolescents, this consultation includes a parent or family member. This step helps the clinical team understand the full context before testing and ensures the assessment battery is tailored appropriately.

Test Administration

The testing session itself typically takes 4–6 hours and includes a combination of paper-and-pencil tasks, computer-based assessments, and interactive activities. For dyslexia evaluations specifically, this battery assesses reading accuracy, reading fluency, reading comprehension, phonological processing, spelling, and related cognitive functions like memory and processing speed. The assessment is conducted by a trained assessment technician supervised by Dr. Max Doshay, PsyD, a licensed clinical psychologist.

Scoring and Interpretation

After the testing session, the clinical team scores all assessments and interprets the results by comparing the individual's performance to normative data. This stage is where the evaluation goes beyond raw scores—the team analyzes patterns across cognitive and academic domains to determine whether the profile is consistent with dyslexia, whether other conditions may be contributing, and what specific areas of strength and difficulty are present.

Feedback Session

Dr. Doshay meets with the individual (and family, if applicable) to walk through the results, explain the findings, and discuss recommendations. This session is an opportunity to ask questions, understand the diagnostic conclusions in context, and begin thinking about next steps.

Comprehensive Report

A detailed report—typically 15–20 pages—is provided approximately two weeks after the feedback session. The report includes diagnostic findings, a breakdown of performance across all assessed domains, and individualized recommendations for academic support, accommodations, and any additional evaluations or services that may be helpful.

What a Dyslexia Evaluation Measures

A neuropsychological evaluation goes beyond confirming that a reading difficulty exists. It identifies the specific cognitive processes contributing to the problem — which is what makes the results actionable.

During a dyslexia evaluation at KMN Psych, the assessment covers phonological processing (how the brain breaks down and manipulates sounds in words), word reading accuracy, decoding ability, orthographic fluency (how quickly the brain recognizes written word patterns), reading comprehension, spelling, and related cognitive functions including working memory, processing speed, and executive functioning.

This range of assessment is what allows the clinical team to distinguish dyslexia from other conditions that can affect reading—like ADHD or anxiety—and to identify the specific profile of strengths and difficulties that will shape the recommendations in the report.

Dyslexia Testing for Adults

A neuropsychological evaluation goes beyond confirming that a reading difficulty exists. It looks at the specific cognitive processes behind the difficulty — so the results can explain why reading has been hard, not just confirm that it is.

During a dyslexia evaluation at KMN Psych, the assessment examines how you break down and process sounds in words, how accurately and quickly you read, how you handle unfamiliar words you haven’t seen before, how well you understand what you’ve read, and how related skills like memory, attention, and processing speed interact with your reading ability.

This is what allows the clinical team to build a complete picture — distinguishing dyslexia from other conditions that can look similar, like ADHD or anxiety, and identifying the specific areas where support will be most effective.

Co-Occurring Conditions Identified During Testing

Dyslexia frequently occurs alongside other neurodevelopmental and psychological conditions. Research consistently shows significant overlap between dyslexia and ADHD, with some estimates suggesting that 30–50% of individuals with dyslexia also meet criteria for an attention disorder. Dyslexia also commonly co-occurs with other specific learning disorders, including dyscalculia (difficulty with mathematics) and dysgraphia (difficulty with written expression).

Additionally, the experience of living with an undiagnosed learning disorder can contribute to secondary difficulties with anxiety, low self-esteem, and avoidance of academic tasks — patterns that are sometimes mistaken for the primary problem rather than recognized as a consequence of the learning difficulty.

One of the advantages of a comprehensive neuropsychological evaluation is that it assesses across multiple domains simultaneously. This means that co-occurring conditions are often identified during the same evaluation, which leads to a more complete diagnostic picture and more useful recommendations.

Verify Insurance

As part of the screening process, we help clients verify their insurance provider can provide financial assistance. We accept PPO as well as non-insured clients. Let us walk you through the process so you can get tested as soon as possible.

How Families and Adults Use Dyslexia Evaluation Results

A neuropsychological evaluation doesn’t end with a diagnosis. The comprehensive report produced by KMN Psych includes specific, individualized recommendations that families and adults can use in several practical ways.

For school-age children and adolescents, evaluation results are frequently used to request IEP or 504 plan accommodations through the school district. The report provides the documentation schools need to understand the nature of the learning difficulty and to implement appropriate supports — such as extended time on tests, access to audiobooks, preferential seating, or modified assignments.

For college students and adults, the report can support requests for testing accommodations on standardized exams including the SAT, ACT, GRE, LSAT, MCAT, and bar exam. Accommodation boards typically require documentation from a qualified professional, and a neuropsychological evaluation meets that standard.

In professional settings, evaluation results can also support formal accommodation requests through an employer.

Regardless of the specific setting, the report gives individuals and families a clearer understanding of how the person learns, where their strengths lie, and what types of support are most likely to be effective.

Insurance and Cost Information for Dyslexia Testing

The cost of a dyslexia evaluation varies depending on the complexity of the assessment and the individual’s insurance coverage. At KMN Psych, we accept most PPO insurance plans and also work with self-pay clients.

As part of the intake process, our team helps families and individuals verify their insurance benefits before testing is scheduled. This step is designed to reduce uncertainty about cost and coverage before the evaluation begins. For those without insurance coverage, self-pay options are available.

If you have questions about whether your plan covers neuropsychological testing, our team can walk you through the verification process.

Preparing for Your Dyslexia Evaluation

A little preparation before the evaluation can help the process go smoothly and ensure the most accurate results.

For children and adolescents, parents can explain the evaluation as a way to better understand how their brain learns—not as a test they can pass or fail. Making sure your child gets a full night of sleep, eats breakfast, and arrives well-rested will help them perform at their best during the testing session. Bringing any previous school evaluations, report cards, or relevant medical records is also helpful.

For adults, arriving rested and prepared to engage for several hours is the most important consideration. If you have prior educational testing, academic records, or documentation of previous accommodations, bringing those to the initial consultation gives the clinical team useful context.

During the testing session itself, your assessment technician will guide you or your child through each task. Breaks are built into the process as needed.

Take the Next Step

Whether you’re a parent noticing reading difficulties in your child, or an adult who has wondered about dyslexia for years, a comprehensive evaluation can provide the clarity you’re looking for. Testing identifies the specific patterns behind the difficulty and provides a clear path forward with individualized recommendations.

Client Testimonials & Success Stories

I completed a neuropsychological assessment at KMN Psych and I’m so glad I finally did. The team makes sure you are comfortable and well taken care of, and the assessment is very thorough. I was easily able to spend 4-5 hours here in a quiet, peaceful environment that was not intimidating at all. I was worried that I was heavily masking whatever I was going through but they caught every little detail. This was a worthy investment of time and money that gave me the clarity I needed, and I highly recommend this place to anyone wishing to undergo assessment. Thank you Dr. Doshay, Dr. Perry, and Tara!

Kajal V.

KMN Psych has been wonderful to work with! They have been very accommodating and attuning to clients’ needs during testing. It has also been a pleasure with coordinating services with them. They are quick to respond and flexible with their schedules. Overall, a great place to check out if you’re needing neuropsych testing done!

Reydel T.

Incredible team here that does the most beautiful work. Their neuropsychological testing is so detailed and really helps provide the full picture. I feel lucky to have found them!

Alexandra Z.

I had a wonderful experience with KMN Psych. From the very first phone call, the staff was welcoming and compassionate, which immediately put me at ease. My neuropsychological testing was thorough, clearly explained, and conducted in a comfortable, professional environment. Dr. Max and his team took the time to really listen to my concerns, answered all my questions, and made sure I understood the process and results. I left feeling validated, understood, and with a clear plan for next steps. I truly appreciate their kindness, professionalism, and dedication to their clients.

Sophia J.

KMN has been nothing but a positive experience every time. From their professionalism to the quality of service they provide on a consistent basis. I highly recommend KMN to all my friends and family!

Simone D.

I have had the pleasure to interact with the team at KMN Psych. They were extremely professional, compassionate, and helpful in supporting me through navigating a challenging time. I felt safe and validated, and I would definitely recommend coming here for testing!

Danielle B.

KMN Psych is an outstanding and reputable neuropsychological testing center, known for its professionalism, thoroughness, and compassionate care. Their team provides comprehensive, evidence-based assessments that are both accurate and easy to understand, ensuring patients and families feel supported through the entire process. The clinicians alongside Dr. Max are highly skilled, detail-oriented, and take the time to explain results clearly, which builds trust and confidence. KMN Psych’s commitment to ethical practice and individualized care truly sets them apart as a trusted leader in the field!

Cory G.

I recently completed neuropsychological testing as an adult female to better understand some ongoing mental health concerns, and I’m so grateful I did. The entire process was very thorough — from the detailed intake session to the actual testing, which covered memory, attention, processing speed, and emotional functioning.

The clinician made me feel heard, respected, and never rushed. The evaluation helped identify ADHD, generalized anxiety disorder, and trauma-related patterns, which finally gave me clarity after years of confusion. I also received a comprehensive report with clear recommendations for therapy, medication options, and strategies for daily life.

This experience was truly life-changing and empowering. If you are struggling to find answers about your mental health as an adult, I highly recommend pursuing neuropsychological testing here.

Kacie O.

As a mom, I was initially nervous about my child undergoing neuropsychological testing, but it turned out to be an incredibly positive experience. The evaluation provided a comprehensive understanding of my child’s strengths and areas of need, which has been invaluable for tailoring their educational plan. The insights from Dr. Max and team have not only helped the school create a more effective learning environment but also guided us in seeking the right support and interventions. Overall, the testing has empowered us with the knowledge to better support our child’s development and well-being.

Michelle P.

I’ve had the privilege of working with KMN Psych for several years and they continue to be my top choice for neuropsychological and psychological testing. Their team has been thorough, professional, and compassionate with every client we’ve referred. Their reports are clear, timely, and highly actionable, which makes a tremendous difference in treatment planning.

Carson W.

KMN Psych provides outstanding neuropsychological assessments with a rare combination of professionalism, expertise, and clarity. Their team is thorough, organized, and clearly knows what they’re doing when it comes to complex cognitive and psychological evaluations. They approach interactions with compassion and genuine care. The reports are detailed, easy to understand, and full of useful recommendations. Whether for school, work, or clinical needs, their assessments truly make a difference. Can’t recommend them enough!

Ryan

KMN has been nothing short of exceptional. From the very first interaction, their team has shown unmatched professionalism, kindness, and genuine care for our clients. It is clear the KMN truly values both the clients and the organizations they partner with.working with them has been an absolute pleasure, and we could not ask for a more reliable, caring and professional team. Highly recommended!

Dawn F.

FAQs

How much does dyslexia testing cost?

The cost of dyslexia testing depends on the type of evaluation and your insurance coverage. At KMN Psych, we accept most PPO plans and offer self-pay options. Our team helps verify insurance benefits before testing is scheduled so you have a clear picture of expected costs before the evaluation begins. Contact us to start the verification process.

How do you get officially tested for dyslexia?

A formal dyslexia diagnosis requires a comprehensive evaluation conducted by a qualified professional, such as a licensed psychologist. The evaluation typically includes standardized measures of reading accuracy, reading fluency, reading comprehension, phonological processing, and spelling, compared against cognitive ability.

At KMN Psych, the evaluation includes a clinical consultation, a 4–6 hour testing session, interpretation by the clinical team, a feedback session to review results, and a detailed written report with diagnostic conclusions and recommendations.

Will my child's school accept your testing results?

Yes. Our reports are specifically designed to meet educational requirements for IEP and 504 plan development and are routinely accepted by school districts.

Where do I go to have my child tested for dyslexia?

Children can be evaluated for dyslexia through a school-based assessment or through a private neuropsychological evaluation. School evaluations determine educational eligibility for services, while a private neuropsych evaluation provides a clinical diagnosis and a more detailed analysis of the cognitive processes underlying the reading difficulty. KMN Psych provides comprehensive dyslexia evaluations for children ages 7 and older at our San Diego office.

How do I get my child tested for dyslexia in California?

In California, parents can request a school-based evaluation through their child's school district at no cost, or they can pursue a private neuropsychological evaluation. A private evaluation provides a clinical diagnosis and comprehensive recommendations that can be used to support IEP or 504 plan requests, guide tutoring and intervention decisions, and provide documentation for future accommodations. KMN Psych offers dyslexia evaluations for children, adolescents, and adults at our San Diego location.

What are the 4 D's of dyslexia?

The "4 D's of dyslexia" is an informal framework sometimes used to describe common features of dyslexia. The four D's typically refer to difficulty decoding words (breaking down letter-sound relationships), difficulty with directionality (reversing letters or numbers), discrepancy between verbal ability and reading performance, and a developmental pattern—meaning the difficulties are present from early childhood and persist over time, rather than appearing suddenly. While this framework is a useful shorthand, a formal evaluation examines a broader range of cognitive and academic functions to reach a diagnosis.

Schedule an Appointment

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