About Luminous Evaluations
Learn more about Luminous Evaluations and what to expect from a comprehensive psychoeducational evaluation, including preparation and fees.
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About the Evaluator:
Austin Jones is a Licensed Psycho-Educational Specialist (LPES). He holds master’s and specialist-level graduate degrees in school psychology and has professional experience across school, educational, and evaluation settings. In private practice, he provides comprehensive psychoeducational evaluations for children and adolescents, with a focus on practical recommendations, and helping families understand a child’s learning and developmental needs.
His work includes evaluation of concerns related to learning disabilities, dyslexia, ADHD, autism spectrum conditions, developmental concerns, academic functioning, and cognitive abilities. He also works closely with families and schools to support appropriate educational planning and recommendations.
Evaluations are individualized and comprehensive. Each assessment is designed to clarify how a child learns, identify areas of strength and need, determine whether findings support an applicable diagnosis or educational concern, and provide meaningful guidance that can be used at home and in school.
Understanding the Role of an LPES:
A Licensed Psycho-Educational Specialist is a South Carolina licensed professional whose scope includes psychoeducational assessment, interpretation of assessment data, diagnostic clarification within the scope of practice, consultation, and recommendations related to learning, attention, development, behavior, and school-related concerns.
At Luminous Evaluations, services are limited to psychoeducational evaluation and related consultation. The practice does not provide psychotherapy, ongoing mental-health treatment, medication management, or services outside the scope of LPES practice. When a child’s needs fall outside that scope, families are encouraged to seek care from another appropriately licensed provider.
Families are encouraged to learn about the differences among professional roles and to ask questions before scheduling. Luminous Evaluations is happy to clarify the services provided and whether an LPES evaluation is an appropriate fit for a family’s needs.
What to Expect:
Every evaluation is tailored to the specific needs of the child and family. While each assessment is individualized, most evaluations include the following components.
1. Free Consultation
A brief phone consultation is offered to discuss concerns, answer questions, and determine whether an evaluation is appropriate. If you choose to move forward, a formal intake interview will be scheduled.
2. Formal Intake Interview
A comprehensive intake interview is conducted with the parent or individual being evaluated. This includes a detailed developmental, medical, and educational history, along with a discussion of current concerns and strategies that have already been tried. This information helps determine the scope and type of evaluation needed to best answer the referral questions. Intake interviews may be conducted over the phone.
3. Evaluation Sessions
The evaluation includes a variety of assessment tools to develop a complete and accurate learning profile. These may include standardized testing, interviews, and behavioral observations. Assessments are administered using a combination of digital tools, such as iPads or laptops, as well as paper-and-pencil measures when appropriate. Evaluation sessions typically range from one to four hours, with short breaks as needed. Some evaluations are completed across multiple sessions depending on the child’s energy level and attention.
4. Scoring, Interpretation, and Written Report
After testing is complete, all information is carefully scored, interpreted, and integrated into a comprehensive written report. The report includes background information, assessment results, and an explanation of how the child learns. When appropriate, diagnoses or classifications are provided. Clear, individualized recommendations are included to support learning, behavior, and development.
5. Feedback and Results Review
Once the report is complete, a feedback meeting is held with the parent or individual to review results and recommendations. Families receive a copy of the written report and may choose to share results with schools, medical providers, or other professionals involved in the child’s care.
Preparing for the Evaluation:
Helping your child feel comfortable and relaxed is an important part of the evaluation process. When children understand what to expect and feel supported, they are better able to engage and show their true strengths. The goal is to reduce anxiety and create a positive, low-pressure experience.
Talking to Your Child About the Evaluation
When discussing the evaluation, it is helpful to explain that everyone learns differently and that the activities are designed to understand how your child learns best. Children are told that the activities are not for a grade and that it is okay not to know how to do everything. Referring to the evaluation as activities or games, rather than testing, can help minimize stress.
It can also be reassuring to let your child know that you have already spoken with the evaluator and that they may ask questions at any time. Evaluation sessions may last a couple of hours and sometimes take place over more than one day. It is generally best to avoid giving an exact time estimate so your child does not become focused on the clock.
Day-of Preparation
Ensure your child gets a good night’s sleep the night before the evaluation
Provide a meal or snack before the session begins
Have your child take medications as prescribed unless otherwise discussed
Most children find the evaluation experience positive and engaging, with encouragement and breaks provided throughout the session.
Fees and Payment:
Free Consultation
A brief phone consultation is offered at no cost to discuss concerns, determine whether an evaluation is appropriate, and answer initial questions.
Evaluation Fees
The total cost of an evaluation varies depending on the type and scope of assessment needed to answer the referral questions. Evaluations are uniquely tailored and fees are based on time required for record review, consultation, face-to-face testing, scoring, report writing, and feedback.
A good-faith estimate is provided after the formal intake interview. Typical ranges are as follows:
Focused evaluations, such as academic testing or giftedness assessments: approximately $750-$1,000
Comprehensive evaluations, including learning disabilities, ADHD, autism, developmental delay, or full psychoeducational evaluations: approximately $1,000 to $2,000+
Payment Policy
Fifty percent of the fee is due on or before the first testing session. The remaining balance is due before results and feedback are provided. Full payment may be made at any time. Fees are non-refundable.
Insurance
Luminous Evaluations is an out-of-network provider. All services are private-pay.
Cancellation Policy
Appointments must be cancelled at least 24 hours in advance to avoid a cancellation fee.
Final Notes
Parents and guardians have the legal right to request a free evaluation through their child’s public school to determine eligibility for special education services. Families seeking school-based evaluations may contact their local school district for additional information.
Due to existing contractual obligations, evaluation services may not be available for certain addresses within the Darlington and Lamar areas. Families in these locations are encouraged to call to confirm availability.