What is a Licensed Educational Psychologist (LEP)?

A Licensed Educational Psychologist (LEP) is governed by the Board of Behavioral Sciences (BBS) and is defined as the following from the BBS: “The practice of educational psychology is the performance of any professional functions pertaining to academic learning processes or the education system or both including diagnosis of psychological disorders related to academic learning processes.” Typically, LEPs are school psychologists with the credentials to work outside of the school system. There is an exam and licensing procedure involved to become an LEP.

Can you diagnose through your assessments?

Yes!

Do you take insurance?

Unfortunately, not at this time. All services are private pay. 

What are the benefits of a private assessment?

It should be known and shared that many of the services that LEPs offer, or services similar, can likely be provided through the educational system free of cost. So, why get a private assessment? Great question! Here are a few reasons:

1) The purpose of a psychoeducational assessment in the school system is to determine special education eligibility. If you are not interested in special education for your child or yourself, but you are rather interested in overall strengths and weaknesses, a private assessment may be more helpful for you.

2) Also, a special education assessment in the school system becomes a part of your child’s record in the school system whereas a private assessment can be shared with whomever you choose.

3) School psychologists in the school system are not able to provide diagnoses, whereas LEPs are able to diagnose with their assessments.

Can I get similar services for free through my school district?

Most of the time, yes! Please refer to the question regarding the “benefits of a private assessment” question for more information about why you may or may not wish to pay for a private assessment.

What ages do you work with?

All ages! LEPs can ethically work with people whose educational experience or vocation is being impacted by the issue brought to the LEP.