FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

 

What age range does Vital Minds serve?  ​

Vital Minds offers assessment services for individuals ranging from 2 to 100 years old.

 

Is Vital Minds currently accepting new clients?  ​

Yes, we are currently accepting new clients.

 

Does Vital Minds provide therapy?  ​

No, Vital Minds specializes exclusively in assessment services.

 

What types of assessments are offered?  ​

Vital Minds provides evaluations for Autism Spectrum Disorder, AD/HD, neurodevelopmental disorders, learning and intellectual disabilities, and emotional, psychiatric, and personality disturbances. Please note that we do not offer forensic, custody, or fitness-for-duty evaluations.

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What types of assessments does Vital Minds not provide?  ​

Vital Minds does not provide forensic, parental fitness, custody, or fitness for duty assessments/evaluations.

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What if i require additional assistance prior to testing?

The admin team can assist in scheduling a consultation with Dr. Vedmed for an out-of-pocket fee. This consultation can cover in-depth questions regarding the testing process, the testing itself, or meetings with a clients therapists.

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How is testing different from therapy?

An evaluation is a structured service designed to answer specific questions using validated, reliable, and norm-referenced psychological tests. Unlike therapy, the relationship with the testing psychologist is more formal, focusing solely on assessment rather than therapeutic interventions or ongoing sessions. An evaluation will continue long after in person testing has completed to author a detailed report that can be used in a variety of settings, including academic, social, professional, and therapeutic contexts.

 

What is the difference between a school psychologist and a clinical psychologist?

Under Washington state law, a school psychologist is required to hold a certificate as defined by the Professional Educator Standards Board (RCW 28A.140.044). School psychologists focus on addressing the mental health, learning, and behavioral needs of students. In contrast, a clinical psychologist is required to have a doctoral degree and specializes in diagnosing and treating mental health conditions.

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How much does an evaluation cost?  ​

The cost of an evaluation is tailored to the individual's needs and the specific referral questions. It varies depending on the complexity and time required to complete the evaluation. For detailed inquiries about costs, please contact Vital Minds directly. 

 

Questionnaires that go out to teachers/contributor?  ​

Questionnaires that go out to teachers/contributors are applicable to educational testing only. Questionnaires are limited to two contributors and it is the responsibility of the client/guardian to follow up and ensure the completion of the questionaries.  Please note, questionnaires must be completed prior to your testing date.

 

Does Vital Minds accept insurance?  ​

Yes, we are in-network with Aetna, Premera and Regence (Blue Shield Blue Cross **When billed under Premera or Regence which is your responsibility to verify**). We encourage you to check with your insurance provider regarding benefits for mental health services. Vital Minds can provide the necessary billing codes to help you verify your coverage.

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Where is Vital Minds located?​

We operate under the Center for Child Development (Website here).

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Where can I find the billing codes needed for insurance submission?  ​

Please email us to request a detailed description of our services.

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What is a superbill?  ​

A superbill is a document that outlines the services provided by an out-of-network provider (anyone not with Aetna, Premera, or Regence [Blue Shield Blue Cross **When billed under Premera or Regence which is your responsibility to verify**]). It includes billing codes and diagnoses, allowing you to submit it to your insurance company for reimbursement after you've paid for the services.​

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What can I expect during the evaluation process?  ​

Once you decide to proceed with an evaluation, Vital Minds will schedule your intake, testing, and feedback appointments. The evaluation process typically spans several hours of test administration, 8+ weeks report preparation, and a virtual feedback session. Please note, the feedback session wont be scheduled until the completion of your report.

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Should I bring anything to my testing appointment(s)?  ​

We also recommend bringing snacks and water, for the lengthy testing session. Testing can be tiring, and it's important to stay nourished. Breaks will be provided as needed.

 

What happens after the evaluation?  ​

After the evaluation, Vital Minds will score, interpret, and prepare a detailed report of the findings.  Please note this detailed report is specifically authored to each client and typically exceeds 20+ pages of in depth explanations of your testing results. The feedback session will be scheduled to review the final report with you. The time required to complete the report varies depending on the individual case. Please discuss specific timelines with Vital Minds.

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Who should be present at the testing appointment?  ​

The testing appointment is solely between the testing client and Dr. Vedmed. If testing an adolescent, there is a waiting area for guardian(s).

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For additional questions, please email: Admin@vitalmindswa.com