A comprehensive psychological assessment is tailored by the psychologist to suit the particular needs of the individual child or adult and the purpose of the assessment. As this practice has particular expertise in Educational and Developmental Psychology, we are able to draw on an extensive range of tests to assist us to explore the specialised learning needs of both gifted students and students with learning difficulties. As well as looking at many different aspects of the developing child, reviews and further opinions can be provided at all age levels. Formal diagnoses using DSM-5 criteria are made when appropriate.
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Assessments are tailored to your needs:
An assessment for a young child who has not yet started school will look at your child’s developmental progress and cognitive (intellectual) abilities as well as look at how they are developing socially and emotionally. School readiness, early academic skills and attention may also be considered.
An assessment for a school aged child will look at your child’s cognitive (intellectual) abilities and academic skills. We may also look at social and emotional maturity, memory and attention, personality and learning styles.
An assessment for an adult may be sought to provide information when returning to study or experiencing concerns with changes in job descriptions or careers.
Further details
The assessment is ONLY done in the morning, and takes several hours and includes at least one short break. There is the opportunity for some parental interaction and discussion at the beginning and we may ask you to complete some additional questions or checklists throughout the morning. With very young children we may choose to break the assessment into two sessions so as not to tire the child. Most children find the assessment process stimulating and fun and often walk out the door asking when they can come back.
At the end of the assessment, you may get some very brief feedback but it takes time to score, collate, think and analyse all the information that has been gathered so it is not possible to give very much information “on the spot”. It usually takes 3-4 weeks for the report to be completed. It is a very thorough and detailed report, and includes recommendations and suggestions. A brief feedback session is scheduled after you have had the time to read the report if you have any further questions. (This is generally included in the cost of comprehensive assessments.)
We suggest that you bring a drink and snack and a jumper and plan to spend some special time afterwards with your child to talk about their experiences. Unless you have to rush back to school or work, most children appreciate the opportunity to have a milkshake or lunch at a café etc.
We also suggest that you explain the purpose of the assessment to your child in a realistic manner that is suitable for their age. For example, “We are going to meet with someone who is very interested in children and the kinds of things they like to do and the different ways they think about ideas, learn things and solve puzzles. She might be able to give us some ideas of things that you will find enjoyable ../.. help make school more fun.. /… help us choose a school that will suit your interests……”. It is best to avoid suggesting they will “play games” or “be tested to see how smart they are”.