Screening & Referral Service

What is a screening?

A screening is a one and a half hour interview looking at a broad range of historical, academic, study habits / skills, academic frustrations and emotional components. The screening will not yield a diagnosis, rather, it assists in the decision making process for recommending the next step in the process, the Triage Committee.

Is my screening confidential?

All information is confidential, unless you sign a release, indicate intent of harming yourself or others, indicate past or present child abuse, or in the case of a medical emergency.

How do I get tested?

If you are frustrated with your learning, the first step is to visit Disability Services to schedule a screening appointment. You will be given a small packet of introductory paperwork to complete and return. A screening appointment is usually available in 1 to 2 weeks after submission of the packet.

What happens after the screening?

A follow up meeting will be scheduled to discuss committee recommendations.  Recommendations may include referral for a comprehensive diagnostic assessment (i.e. testing) at the Interprofessional Services for Learning Assessment clinic (ISLA) or with other qualified diagnosticians. Referrals to other JMU resources may also be provided. If you are not a candidate for testing, the screening process ends at this point.

What do I do if I am not a candidate for testing?

You will be encouraged to seek out and utilize existing university resources such as Learning the Centers or the Counseling and Student Development Center.

What is involved in assessment through the Interprofessional Services for Learning Assessment (ISLA)?

If you are a candidate for testing with ISLA, a case manager can be assigned to provide support through the process. Typically, testing may be completed in two to three weeks, but is dependent on the student's schedule. You will be given tests of cognitive functioning, achievement, symptoms check-list, information processing, and personality characteristics. These are standardized tests administered one-on-one. Cost is $450.00 for a standard psycho educational battery.

What can I do to prepare for the assessment?

  • Arrive for your appointment on time
  • Be well-rested and comfortable
  • Be ready to do your best
  • Eat beforehand since testing sessions last up to four hours
  • Do not spend time studying: it is neither recommended nor required
  • If you are on prescription medication, take or bring your medication so your condition(s) will not detract from the session.
  • If you require eyeglasses, etc., bring them to the testing session.
  • Refrain from using alcohol and/or illegal drugs before testing sessions.

How long will I wait on the waiting list?

Since the demand is high for assessments, you may be placed on a waiting list. The waiting list lasts approximately 60 days.

When should I expect results?

Results are typically given in three to four weeks after the testing is completed.

What will be in the report?

The report will include a reason for referral, tests administered, brief background information, relevant behavior observations, major findings, and recommendations. A diagnosis, if given, will be in the major findings sections.

What happens if I am diagnosed with a disability?

If you receive a diagnosis and you need to request accommodations due to the limitations identified, you should contact Disability Services in Wilson Hall - Room 107 to discuss learning support services and accommodations.  You must submit a copy of your assessment report to Disability Services prior to registering for services. Allow approximately two weeks after submission of your report for the staff to review your file and schedule a registration appointment.

What other resources are available at JMU?

  • Career & Academic Planning - Wilson Hall 2nd Floor
  • Counseling & Student Development Center - Varner House
  • Learning Centers:
    • Supplemental Instruction -Wilson Hall - Roop Hall 2nd Floor
    • Speech Services  - Wilson Hall 4th Floor
    • Writing Consultations - Wilson Hall 4th Floor
    • English Language Learner Services - Wilson Hall 4th Floor
    • Science & Math Learning Center - Roop Hall 2nd Floor
  • First Year Involvement & Office of Residence Life - Huffman Hall - For First Year students to work on honing their academic skills at the University level.
  • Disability Services - Wilson Hall Room 107
  • Learning Strategies Instruction - Wilson Hall - Room 107/105

Can I get tested anywhere else?

Yes. A list of psychologists is available upon request.


To Schedule a Screening or Request Additional Information Please Contact:

 
Sandra Gulliver (Reception shared with Disability Services)
Wilson Hall, Room 107
Phone: 540.568.6705

Christy Henderson, Screening & Referral, Graduate Assistant 
Wilson Hall, Room 104
Phone: 568-7146
Henderson, Christine Marie - hende2cm@jmu.edu

Supervisor: Rory Lazowski
Wilson Hall, Room 105
Phone: 540.568.6705
lazowsra@jmu.edu