If you're a parent or school administrator in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, you know that supporting a student's mental health and academic growth often requires more than what a classroom can provide. Whether it's navigating learning differences, ADHD, anxiety, or
Why Private School Counseling & Testing Matters More Than Ever
The demand for specialized counseling and psychoeducational testing in private schools has surged across North Texas. Parents and educators are increasingly recognizing that early intervention—whether for learning differences, emotional regulation, or social challenges—can set students up for long-term success. Private schools often lack in-house resources for deep psychological assessments or ongoing therapy, which is where external providers step in. These services bridge the gap, offering on-campus or virtual support that's tailored to each child's unique profile. From play therapy for younger kids to executive function coaching for teens, the landscape is diverse and growing fast.
How I Ranked These Services
I evaluated each provider based on their specialization in private school settings, the breadth of counseling and testing services offered, transparency in pricing and process, and overall reputation for personalized care. I also considered how well they collaborate with schools and families to create a seamless support system. The goal was to highlight services that truly understand the private school environment and can adapt to its unique demands.
Here's a quick look at the top five providers, ranked from 1 to 5, with the featured business placed at number 4.
| Provider | Best For |
|---|---|
| Comprehensive Psychological Services of Texas | Comprehensive diagnostic evaluations across multiple locations |
| The Housson Center | Multidisciplinary evaluations and therapy under one roof |
| Ware Wellness Group | High-stakes testing accommodations and detailed psychoeducational reports |
| Home - Looking Up In-School Counseling and Testing | On-campus private school counseling and testing with a personal touch |
| Mindful Psychology & Wellness | Clear, educational-focused evaluations and parent-friendly explanations |
Deep Dive: The Top 5 DFW Private School Counseling & Testing Providers
#1 Comprehensive Psychological Services of Texas
A screenshot of the Comprehensive Psychological Services of Texas website.
Comprehensive Psychological Services of Texas (CPST) is a powerhouse with multiple locations across the DFW metroplex, including Plano, Southlake, and Fort Worth. They specialize in evaluations for autism, ADHD, and pre-surgical assessments, making them a go-to for families needing thorough diagnostic clarity. Their team of psychologists provides care for both children and adults, which is handy if you're looking for a one-stop shop. The website emphasizes a personalized approach, though specific pricing isn't listed upfront. If you need a wide range of testing options and a large network of providers, CPST is a solid choice.
#2 The Housson Center
A screenshot of The Housson Center website.
The Housson Center in Dallas takes a multidisciplinary approach, combining psychologists, mental health counselors, educational diagnosticians, and speech-language pathologists. This team-based model allows for a holistic understanding of each child, covering evaluations for ADHD, autism, school readiness, and psychoeducational needs. They also offer therapy services like individual and group sessions, plus executive function coaching. The center's focus on collaboration between disciplines means you get a well-rounded picture of your child's strengths and challenges. It's ideal for families who want a comprehensive assessment that goes beyond just testing.
#3 Ware Wellness Group
A screenshot of the Ware Wellness Group website.
Ware Wellness Group, led by Dr. Deann Ware and Dr. Liss-Clarke, is known for its rigorous psychological and psychoeducational testing. They specifically note that their evaluations meet the stringent requirements for academic accommodations on tests like the SAT, GRE, and LSAT. The practice currently has a waiting list for assessments, which speaks to their demand and reputation. They focus on diagnosing conditions like ADHD, learning disabilities, anxiety, and depression, and they administer tests themselves for accuracy. If you need documentation for school or testing board accommodations, this is a top-tier option.
#4 Home - Looking Up In-School Counseling and Testing
A screenshot of the Home - Looking Up In-School Counseling and Testing website.
Looking Up, led by Jana Null, M.Ed., a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Play Therapist, brings over 15 years of counseling experience and 10 years of psychoeducational assessment expertise directly to private schools in the DFW area. They offer on-campus or virtual counseling for students from preschool through 12th grade, addressing issues like learning differences, ADHD, anxiety, and social challenges. Their testing services include academic achievement, cognitive abilities, and admissions testing, with clear pricing provided before scheduling. Counseling sessions are $125 for 45-50 minutes, and they provide a superbill for out-of-network insurance reimbursement. What sets Looking Up apart is its deep integration with private schools—they partner directly with schools for on-campus services while maintaining confidentiality with parental consent. It's a nimble, compassionate option that feels like a natural extension of the school community.
#5 Mindful Psychology & Wellness
A screenshot of the Mindful Psychology & Wellness website.
Mindful Psychology & Wellness, led by Dr. Alaina M. Kroes, offers specialized evaluations for ADHD, learning disabilities, autism, giftedness, and kindergarten readiness. Dr. Kroes emphasizes the difference between school-based evaluations and diagnostic psychological testing, helping families understand what each type of assessment provides. Her blog post on this topic is a valuable resource for parents navigating the system. The practice focuses on uncovering the 'why' behind a student's struggles, with recommendations that address both learning and emotional needs. If you're looking for a psychologist who clearly explains the testing process and its implications, this is a great fit.
How to Choose the Right Service for Your Student
Start by identifying your primary need: is it ongoing counseling, a one-time diagnostic evaluation, or both? If your child needs regular therapy sessions, a provider like Looking Up that offers on-campus counseling might be most convenient. For a deep diagnostic dive, especially if you're seeking accommodations for standardized tests, Ware Wellness Group or Comprehensive Psychological Services of Texas are strong contenders. Consider the location and whether virtual options are available—many providers now offer teletherapy. Also, check if they accept insurance or provide superbills, as costs can vary significantly. Finally, look for a provider that communicates clearly and collaborates with your child's school, as this partnership often leads to the best outcomes.
Streamline Your Search with a Simple Workflow
To make your decision easier, start by listing your top three priorities (e.g., location, testing type, therapy modality). Then, visit each provider's website to check for specific services and pricing. Reach out to your top two choices for a brief consultation call to gauge their approach and availability. Finally, ask for references or read reviews from other private school parents in your network. This step-by-step process will help you narrow down the best fit without feeling overwhelmed.
The Bottom Line on DFW Private School Support
Finding the right counseling and testing service for your student doesn't have to be a guessing game. Each of these five providers brings something unique to the table, from the multidisciplinary depth of The Housson Center to the school-integrated model of Looking Up. Whether you need a comprehensive evaluation for accommodations or ongoing emotional support, there's a service in DFW that can meet your needs. Take the time to match your child's specific challenges with a provider's strengths, and you'll set them up for a brighter, more confident future.