Testing for Gifted and Talented School Programs

Every child has unique talents, but some demonstrate exceptional abilities that set them apart. Testing for Gifted and Talented programs is the first step to ensuring your child receives the education and opportunities they deserve. These assessments are designed to identify advanced cognitive abilities, strong social and emotional qualities, and problem-solving skills, helping schools place students in programs tailored to their needs.

At TEMA Therapy, we specialize in comprehensive evaluations for gifted and talented programs. Our team of experts uses scientifically validated tools to assess your child’s intellectual, academic, and problem-solving strengths. Whether you’re preparing for school admissions or simply want to understand your child’s potential, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

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Why Testing for Gifted and Talented Matters

Gifted and talented programs offer a challenging and enriching educational experience for students who excel beyond their peers. However, gaining admission often requires rigorous testing. These assessments typically include:

  • IQ Testing: Measures cognitive abilities and problem-solving skills.
  • Achievement Tests: Evaluates academic proficiency in subjects like math, reading, and science.
  • Socio-Emotional Behavioral Duration: Assesses social and emotional development.

Benefits of Gifted and Talented Programs

  1. Personalized Learning: Tailored curricula that challenge and engage advanced learners.
  2. Social Connections: Opportunities to connect with like-minded peers.
  3. Enhanced Confidence: Recognition of their abilities can boost self-esteem and motivation.

Recognizing Giftedness in Your Child

Some parents may sense that their child has unusually high intellectual abilities or exceptional aptitude in one or more academic areas. Often, these perceptions are accurate. At TEMA Therapy, we provide Testing for Gifted and Talented programs to help determine if your child qualifies for accelerated programs designed for high-achieving students. For example, the parents may initiate an application process for the John Hopkins Center for Talented Youth if they have the required results of the cognitive testing that is performed at our Center.

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Gifted and Talented Programs in New Jersey and New York

In New Jersey, eligibility for public school Gifted and Talented programs is determined through a comprehensive process. According to the New Jersey Department of Education:

“District boards of education shall make provisions for an ongoing K-12 identification process for gifted and talented students that includes multiple measures, including but not limited to, achievement test scores, grades, student performance or products, intelligence testing, parent, student, and/or teacher recommendation, and other appropriate measures.”

While IQ testing is just one component of the evaluation, it provides valuable insight into your child’s intellectual abilities compared to their peers.

In New York State, cognitive testing plays an even more critical role in securing placement in accelerated programs. Our psychologists are licensed in both New York and New Jersey, and their evaluations are recognized as independent psychological assessments. This is particularly beneficial for bilingual students, as our testing can help identify their strengths and eligibility for specialized programs in NYC.

OUR STAFF

Meet our Therapists

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Dr. Irina Volynsky, PhD.

Clinical Director

Specialty: Clinical psychologist working with adults, children and families. Testing and Therapy

Licenses: New York, New Jersey PSYPACT

Languages: English, Russian, Ukrainian

Dr. Emile T. Berk, PhD.

Psychologist

Specialty: Clinical psychologist performing testing for adults, adolescents, and children.

Licenses: New York, New Jersey PSYPACT

Languages: English

Irina Bashkirov, LPC

Licensed Professional Counsellor

Specialty: Adult and child therapy. Group therapy for adults

License: Licensed Professional Counsellor

Languages: English, Russian, Hebrew

Andrew Roetman

Supervised Therapist

Specialty: Therapy and testing performed under the supervision of clinical director

Languages: English and Spanish

Natalia Rowe, CCC-SLP

Language and Feeding Specialist

Specialty: Speech-Language/Disphagia Therapist, PROMPT Therapist

Licenses: New York, New Jersey 

Languages: English, Russian

Amaury Hernandez

Behavioral Conditioning Coach

Specialty: Sensory Integration, Emotional Regulation, Competitive Sports Training

Certificates: Personal Trainer, Sensory Integration, Parkour

Languages: English, Spanish

Zhanna Beyl, LCSW

Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Specialty: Psychotherapist working with teens, adults, couples, and families 

Licenses: New York, New Jersey

Languages: English, Russian

Katya Chizhova, LCSW

Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Specialty: Psychotherapist working with the elderly and people with acute and chronic medical conditions

Licenses: New York, New Jersey

Languages: English, Russian

Darina Konstorum, APC

Associate Professional Counsellor

Speciality: Psychotherapist working with children, teens, and adults. Group therapy for adults.

Licenses: New Jersey

Languages: English, Russian

Tamara Kapustina

Coaching

Specialty: Health & Wellness Family Executive functioning Coach.

Languages: Russian, Ukrainian, English (Intermediate)

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NEWSLETTER

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Who benefits from our service?

I can't thank Tema Therapy enough for their incredible support in managing my ADHD. The therapists here are compassionate, knowledgeable, and understanding. They took the time to truly understand my struggles and provided me with effective coping strategies. The therapy sessions have made a significant positive impact on my life, helping me regain focus, improve productivity, and boost my self-esteem. Tema Therapy is a game-changer for anyone seeking assistance with ADHD.

Emily R

Tema Therapy has been an essential part of my journey in overcoming anxiety disorders. The therapists are empathetic, patient, and highly skilled in providing the right tools to manage anxiety effectively. The sessions were tailored to my specific needs, and the techniques I learned have been instrumental in reducing panic attacks and daily anxiety levels. While there's always room for improvement, I can confidently say that Tema Therapy is a place where anxiety disorders are truly understood and addressed.

Jason L

Tema Therapy has been a ray of hope in my battle against depression. The therapists here create a warm and nurturing environment, allowing for open and honest discussions. Their compassionate approach helped me feel safe while exploring the root causes of my depression. Through their guidance and evidence-based techniques, I've experienced significant progress in my emotional well-being. Tema Therapy is a beacon of light, reminding us that recovery from depression is possible.

Samantha H

Tema Therapy provided me with invaluable support during the most challenging period of my life—grieving the loss of a loved one. The therapists demonstrated exceptional empathy and understanding, creating a safe space for me to express my emotions and navigate the complexities of grief. Their expertise in grief counseling helped me find healthy coping mechanisms, allowing me to gradually heal and honor the memory of my loved one. Tema Therapy is an oasis of compassion during times of profound loss.

Daniel M

Tema Therapy has been instrumental in unlocking my true potential despite learning disabilities. The therapists here possess an in-depth understanding of different learning challenges and provide personalized strategies that cater to individual needs. Their patience, encouragement, and innovative techniques have empowered me to overcome obstacles and succeed academically. Although progress can take time, Tema Therapy has proven to be a transformative resource for individuals with learning disabilities, offering a path towards brighter futures.

Olivia K

Frequently Asked Questions

Have more questions? Email us at [email protected] for further queries.

What age should my child be for a Learning Disability Evaluation?
Evaluations are available for School-Aged Children, from first grade through high schools. Young adults preparing for college or career transitions can also benefit from assessment.
Will this affect my child's school placement?
A proper learning disability diagnosis helps schools make informed decisions. It can qualify your child for special education services, accommodations, or classroom learning strategies.
What types of tests are used?
We use Learning Disability Tests, including intelligence tests, screening tests, and tools to assess visual-motor integration, processing speed, and cognitive abilities.
Can this help with ADHD or other conditions?
Yes. We evaluate for conditions like attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, intellectual disability, language impairment, and other developmental disabilities as part of the neuropsychological evaluation.
What role does the family play in this process?
Family history, input from caregivers, and context from the child's teacher all shape our understanding. Data collection from home and school is an important component of our assessment process.
How does this differ from school testing?
Schools often have limited assessment tools and time. We offer in-depth testing, a private and controlled school setting, and collaboration with both public school and private school systems.
What happens after the evaluation?
We walk you through the next steps, connect you to Support Services, and make referrals to learning specialists or healthcare professionals as needed.
Are evaluations accepted by schools and colleges?
Yes. We follow best practices aligned with the International Dyslexia Association, Disabilities Education Act, and guidelines recognized across the United States.
Can this evaluation be used for standardized testing accommodations?
Absolutely. Results may qualify students for accommodations on standardized tests such as extended time or use of assistive technology.
What if my child has trouble with math facts, reading comprehension, or problem-solving?
We assess specific learning disabilities across all academic areas, helping identify tailored solutions for your child’s challenges in academic skills.
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