Frequently Asked Questions for Parents

Why choose the Current Center?

Through my work in the public school system, I have seen many parents be misguided by professionals outside the school system who lack substantive and practical expertise in the areas of assessment and special education. While these professionals are well-intentioned, families can be left feeling disappointed and, worse, their children without an appropriate education. My goal is to marry the clinical work with my understanding of the special education system to produce results that will positively impact your child’s learning and development. I will work with you to understand your goals, your child’s needs, and advise a course of action based on my knowledge of how schools actually run.

What types of evaluations do you conduct?

I largely conduct full, comprehensive neuropsychological evaluations. A comprehensive evaluation is catered to your child’s needs and your concerns but will generally include a school-based observation (Yes, I’ll drive to your child’s school!), full history, consultation with pertinent providers, direct measures (such as cognitive, academic, neuropsychological, social, developmental), and rating scales (parents, teachers, child, as needed). These evaluations can assess and diagnosis in the areas of mental health, intellectual impairment, adaptive functioning, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Specific Learning Disabilities, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, and other developmental disorders. I will note that in some cases, I will conduct more targeted evaluations. These will vary in cost.

What can I expect when my child comes for an evaluation?

Depending on the measures being used, testing can take between 3 and 8 hours. All day and half day testing sessions can be scheduled. I suggest prioritizing sleep the night before a testing session and wearing comfortable clothes the day of the session. Bring water and a snack and/or lunch. Anticipate dropping your child off and coming back at a designated time. For children who have anxiety or difficulty transitioning, I will work with you to make a plan beforehand.

Don’t I need a neuropsychologist?

The short answer is “no.” Like any licensed neuropsychologist or clinical psychologist, my license allows me to diagnose and practice within the full range of my clinical expertise. That range is quite wide. That said, my clinical interest and expertise is in helping families ensure their children have been accurately diagnosed and are being educated accordingly.

What types of services are included in consultation and advocacy?

Ashley will attend Team meetings (e.g. Eligibility and IEP meetings), help parents prepare for Team meetings, assist parents in managing their child’s IEP, conduct case reviews and IEP reviews, and provide advice for working with special education teams.

How do I start working with the Current Center?

First, fill out your information on the Contact page. You’ll hear from me within a couple of days to set up a 15-20 minute call to discuss what you are looking for. Provided it is a good fit, I will send the intake forms and we’ll schedule an initial meeting. The steps in the process after this point will vary depending on the service you are looking for.

Do you work virtually?

All testing must be completed in person. Feedback sessions and parent meetings can certainly be held virtually if in-person is not an option.

What ages do you work with?

I am licensed to work with students between the age of 5 and 22 and will happily take clients in that age range.

Do you take insurance?

The practice is private pay and does not take insurance at this time.

When is payment due?

For evaluations, 50% is due the day of the first testing session and the remaining 50% is due before I release the report. For case reviews, payment is due upon signing the consent forms. For consultation and advocacy, an invoice will be sent.

How long is your waitlist?

The practice is still fairly new. That said, I am still booking out about three months.

Do you work outside the state of Massachusetts?

I am only licensed in the state of Massachusetts.