Guidance for Deaf & Hard of Hearing Individuals
Guidance for Deaf & Hard of Hearing Individuals
Accessible, Culturally Competent Assessment
Jennifer Linton Reesman, PhD, ABPP is fluent in American Sign Language (ASL) and has built a significant part of her clinical practice around neuropsychological evaluation for Deaf and Hard of Hearing (D/HH) individuals. Assessments are designed to be culturally and linguistically appropriate, ensuring that results reflect true abilities rather than barriers in language or communication.
Evaluations can be conducted entirely in ASL or with accommodations for spoken English. Testing materials are adapted when necessary, and every assessment follows standardized neuropsychological protocols. This approach ensures:
- Accurate understanding of cognitive, academic, and social-emotional functioning
- Reliable recommendations for education, therapy, or daily life
- Consideration of both hearing status and any co-occurring learning or developmental differences
How we work
Jennifer Linton Reesman, PhD, ABPP has directed the DREAM Clinic for D/HH evaluations, led federal training projects for the next generation of professionals serving Deaf and Hard of Hearing clients, and provides guidance to families navigating complex educational and medical systems.
Language is central to thinking and learning. Using ASL or the client’s primary mode of communication:
- Prevents underestimation of abilities
- Ensures test results are meaningful and actionable
- Supports fair identification of learning differences, executive functioning challenges, or developmental needs
Resources
Resources for D/HH Families
For families seeking practical guidance beyond evaluation, both Maryland-specific and national organizations can help. Because the process for accessing services and accommodations often varies by state, Coherence recommends starting with Maryland-specific resources whenever possible:
Maryland Resources
- Disability Rights Maryland (disabilityrightsmd.org): Free legal information and advocacy for Marylanders with disabilities, including guidance on special education rights.
- Kennedy Krieger Institute — Project HEAL (kennedykrieger.org): Maryland-specific special education templates, legal advocacy, and resources for families navigating IEP and 504 processes.
- Maryland School for the Deaf (msd.edu): Educational programs and family resources for Deaf and Hard of Hearing children.
National Resources
- Hands & Voices (handsandvoices.org): Family-centered support for D/HH children.
- National Association of the Deaf (nad.org): Advocacy, legal rights, and education resources.
- Gallaudet University (gallaudet.edu): Research, training, and community resources for D/HH individuals.
FAQ
Common Questions Families Ask
- Children, adolescents, and adults who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing
- Families seeking clear guidance for education, interventions, or therapy
- Professionals looking for culturally competent assessment in ASL
Yes. When conducted by trained, fluent professionals, assessments are accurate, reliable, and fully adapted to meet communication needs.
No. Neuropsychological evaluation is a diagnostic and planning process. Recommendations may include referrals to therapy, educational supports, or other services as needed.
No. Assessment is conducted directly by Jennifer Linton Reesman, PhD, ABPP without an interpreter, so communication remains fully accessible throughout.