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Psychological assessment is a process that combines the use of psychometric tools, clinical observationand interview, and the gathering of other information from various sources (e.g., teachers). This provides a holistic view to better understand thinking, learning, behaviour and socio-emotional development and helps in identifying areas of strength and challenge, and planning the way forward for your child and family.
What to expect
Before the Assessment - Intake form and Initial Interview
1. Prior to your first session, you'll be asked to complete an intake and consent form.
2. Then we'll meet (usually parents only) in an initial interview (also called an intake session). The purpose of the initial interview is to obtain background information, current concerns and to develop an assessment plan. Copies of any recent reports should be provided prior (usually with the intake consent form as as soon as possible e.g., School reports, speech therapy reports, occupational therapy reports, and hearing and vision reports).
3. During this session, we'll discuss your goals, your child's needs and collaborate on the assessment approach.
4. Post- session you'll receive a cost proposal and schedule outlining this plan, with associated costs so the process (including payments) is clear - no suprises!
Assessment Sessions
5. Assessments are completed in 50 min-to-2-hour sessions depending on the assessment measure/type. It is often necessary to complete several assessment measures/sessions, and these may be scheduled over several weeks. Psychometric assessment sessions are almost always scheduled in the morning, when children are at their brightest and most alert.
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Assessment sessions are completed individually in a quiet room, free from distractions. Parents who accompany their child for assessment are welcome to wait in the waiting room or return at a specified time (just leave a mobile number with reception).
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6. Some assessments are taken online, usually completed by a parent and a teacher. These will be supplied via email and returned via link or email.
After the Assessment – Feedback and the Report
7. After the assessments have been completed, all results are compiled, reviewed and interpreted by the psychologist. A comprehensive report is prepared. This usually takes approximately 2-3 weeks.
8. When your report is almost ready, a team member will be in touch to book in your feedback session (usually only attended by parents/carers). At this session you will be provided with feedback on results, diagnostic impressions and have the opportunity to ask questions and discuss the results with the psychologist. Recommendations, strategies and forward planning will also be discussed during this session.
It is important to note that further assessments may be recommended based on the results of the completed assessments.
Assessment fees and schedule
For approximate assessment costings, please click here >
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Psychometrics/tools
1
Behaviour, emotion and development
Assessment to explore a child's behavioural and emotional difficulties and challenges - and whether these fall outside what would be expected within their given age-range.
Concerns may include hyperactivity, impulsivity, aggression, defiance, inattention/difficulty concentrating, anxiety, friendship and relationship issues, meltdowns and sensory difficulties.
Autism and ADHD investigation are common referrals for assessment.
2
Cognitive Abilities
Cognitive assessments explore strengths and weaknesses in the way we process information e.g., working memory, processing speed. Tests can help identify intellectual giftedness as well learning and intellectual difficulties or disabilities.
3
Educational/Learning
Educational assessment explores a child's academic ability in a range of areas e.g., reading comprehension. These help identify and diagnose learning difficulties (including Specific Learning Disorders (SLDs) such as Dyslexia, Dysgraphia and Dyscalculia), and gifted children.