David Palmer Ph.D.
Licensed Educational Psychologist (California BBSE Lic. # 2193) Laguna Beach, Ca.


My book has helped thousands of parents understand gifted testing and programming so that they can better work with the schools to find the right program for their child.  

“A useful, ready reference for parents… presents the content in 
an organized, even, and balanced manner … clear and simple”    
Review by Suzanne M. Stauffer, Library Journal

Dr. Palmer is Licensed Educational Psychologist, award winning researcher, university lecturer, and frequent presenter at local, state, and national events. 

Dr. Palmer was recently featured as a commentator on the Discovery Health Channel's "My Kid's Smarter than Me"

Dr. Palmer is an invited expert "Psychology Today" Blogger.  Blog Post links posted below... 

Private Testing for Giftedness?  If and When.

Is Your Child Gifted?  What to Look for and Why You Should Know

Gifted Kids with Learning Problems...  The Twice Exceptional Child

One Strategy to Use When Kids Get Too Far Ahead of the Curve

Online Articles by David Palmer


Sign Up for Dr. Palmer's Email Newsletter

Link to View Parent Reviews


Additional Services Available

Would Your Child Benefit From A Grade Adjustment?

Learning Disability Assessment

Link to Dr. Palmer's upcoming University of California, Irvine extension online course in giftedness identification and programming

Recent Client Notes

"Thank you again for your insight.  You have been a tremendous help to us."

"Thanks to you we feel very informed and able to advocate for our daughter's best interests"

"...answers a lot of questions about our child's nature,  mind,  and personality."

"So interesting... thanks so much!"
 "You answered all our questions... 
it’s great to have someone like you 
in the area."
 "You’ve really helped us understand our options...  thank you."

Great Links for Parents!

Book Recommendations

MapQuest Directions to Dr. Palmer's office in Laguna Beach,  California


David Palmer, Ph.D., Psychologist, Laguna Beach, Ca.


Specializing in GATE Assessment and IQ Testing for Educational Planning - Preschool and Up


Many bright or gifted kids can do well in a good public or private school system.  But some need more in order to stay engaged and challenged - and to be able to connect with others who share similar interests and traits.

Private testing is often the best place to start when considering options. Parents often seek an IQ test in order to get an objective view of their child's learning needs so they can make informed decisions.  

I am a licensed educational psychologist who has administered hundreds of IQ tests to children of all ability levels and helped many families find the right educational program for their child. I offer expert assessment and specific advice regarding educational options.

How is my practice different?

  • My office is conveniently located in the heart of Laguna Beach, California - a great day trip and a short walk to the ocean and downtown
  • Weekend appointments available
  • Out of state appointments welcome
Why Test?

IQ testing can give parents the information they need to:

Many gifted kids do not do well on the group IQ tests that districts often administer as part of the screening process. Individually administered comprehensive IQ tests offer more in-depth, valid, and useful information than do group tests. Most districts will consider a privately administered IQ test as part of the selection process for gifted programs.
  • Help with educational planning
Many gifted kids need educational enrichment programs in order to stay challenged and engaged during the school years. In my IQ assessment report I offer practical and specific recommendations based on score results. Parents considering a private school program for their child often find that they are able to keep their child in a public school program using the supplemental strategies I recommend. 
  • Satisfy the admissions requirements for a private school program or for outside gifted education programs
  • Better understand their child's learning ability and cognitive style
  • Help understand their child’s unique behavioral or social traits

Characteristics of giftedness can sometimes be misinterpreted as signs of ADHD, a behavioral or emotional disorder, or even a form of autism. Although gifted children can certainly have these conditions, differentiating between gifted behaviors and the traits associated with such disorders can be tricky. The more information you and others have about your child's development, the better position you are in to identify the underlying causes behind any unusual behaviors.

Fee

Some IQ specialists charge $1200 or more for an assessment. Others charge separate hourly fees of two hundred dollars or more for assessment, scoring, interpretation, report writing, and consultation. I charge a reasonable flat rate of $625

This fee includes:
 
 

The (approximately 2 hour) assessment session and initial consultation session

Follow up scoring, interpretation, and development and delivery of a
 customized confidential written follow up report with specific recommendations for educational programming

A follow-up email consultation if requested by the parent

Contact

Contact me by email at dave@palmerlearning.com (preferred) or by phone at (949) 892 9805 or (562) 743 9520 for more information or to arrange an appointment. Please note that I often book one to two months in advance.  I will respond to your inquiry via email, usually within one day. Once an appointment is scheduled, I will send you a confirmation email with additional information / material. I am currently booking weekend appointments. 


All Content provided by David Palmer