Frequently, clients seek a "second opinion" evaluation after a first evaluation by another psychologist is inconclusive. This second opinion testing arefrequently completed as an Independent Educational Evaluation, which is paid for by the school system as required by Special Education laws. Clientsseeking to qualify for an Independent Educational Evaluation should consult the Special Education departments of their school systems. Individual schoolsystems vary in how much they will pay toward an Independent Educational Evaluation. Some Special Education departments will pay for a large portion ofthe fee with the client or parent paying the remainder of the fee. One of the most common reasons for an testing and diagnosis to qualify for special accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA ).Requests for such accommodations must demonstrate through the application material, the written report of the test results and any supportive materialsfrom the schools Special Education department that the disorder causes a substantial interference in educational activities or work related activities.A formal diagnosis is necessary if you are seeking insurance reimbursement or are trying to obtain special accommodations under the Americans withDisability Act - ADA in school, for standardized testing or for employment purposes. Dr. Smith is a consultant to the Michigan Dyslexia Institute (MDI) andprovides testing for the Michigan Dyslexia Institute at the Abrams Teaching Laboratory in Lansing, Michigan and the Detroit Metro Center in Berkley,Michigan. The Michigan Dyslexia Institute, Inc. (MDI) is a nonprofit organization, funded by a combination of grants, donations and fee for service programs servingchildren and adults through six regional centers throughout Michigan. MDI provides teacher training, cooperative programs with school districts and stateagencies, public information about dyslexia, diagnostic evaluation and remedial reading instruction. Fees are charged for services, however financial aid isoften available for the financially disadvantaged. In such a situation, the prospective client should contact the Michigan Dyslexia Institute in advance to applyfor their scholarship program. Michigan Dyslexia Institute