Services

"I'm not sure if I need an assessment"

"I don't know what we need assessed by I've noticed....."

"The teachers have suggested we see a psychologist"

These are some of the most common things I hear from new clients. The process is confusing, expensive, and takes a lot of time. You want to be sure that you're doing the right thing before booking a full assessment. For many people they've already had a number of false starts and dead ends.

The Screening Assessment is an opportunity for me to listen to your experiences, answer your questions, screen for various types of neurodivergence, and help you plan for the next steps. The next steps might include assessment, referral to a specialist, or additional supports. There is no pressure or commitment to do any further assessments at the end of the initial meeting.

Screening can include asking questions or completing brief tests that look for signs of:

• Dyslexia (reading differences)

• Dysgraphia (writing differences)

• Dyscalculia (math differences)

• Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

• Autism

This appointment can be done either in person or by zoom. If no further assessment is required there is the option of a brief report with recommendations.

A diagnosis can not be made based on the initial meeting alone. Further testing is required to obtain a diagnosis of learning differences, ADHD, or Autism.

IQ Assessments are used to look at how the brain handles information.

We offer IQ testing for people aged 2.5 years old - 90 years old.

IQ Assessments can help identify strengths and difficulties in how a person processes information, for example giftedness and intellectual disabilities. They can also be used to gain a better understanding of the impacts of conditions such as Foetal Alcohol Syndrome Disorder and Microcephaly.

Testing takes around 90 minutes and breaks can be provided as needed.

You are then provided with a report summarising results and providing recommendations for home and school/work. The areas covered include:

• Understanding spoken language.

• Processing visual information.

• Problem solving.

• Speed and accuracy of thought.

• Working memory.

Education assessments test reading, writing and maths. The tests administered can be tailored to you or your child's needs. Some of the area's we look at are:

• Understanding of the sounds of the English language.

• Recognition of familiar words and objects.

• Reading expression and speed.

• Understanding of spoken and written information.

• Spelling.

• Use of punctuation and capital letters.

• Vocabulary development.

• Grammar and writing structure.

• Understanding of mathematical concepts.

At the end of assessment you are provided with a detailed report and feedback which includes detailed recommendations for further intervention, places to access more information to better understand what you are experiencing, and a plan for school or work.

For a diagnosis of dyslexia, dysgraphia, or dyscalculia you must complete a cognitive assessment and education assessment. If you have had a cognitive assessment (IQ test) completed through another service a diagnosis can be provided with only an education assessment.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is much more than having trouble sitting still or finding it hard to concentrate.

People with ADHD have differences in how their brains respond to the world around them. The aim of our assessment is to help you to understand these differences, which can make life much easier for you or your child.

Our assessment involves collecting information to get a detailed understanding of your, or your child's, experiences. Depending on whether the assessment is for you or your child this might involve:

• Meeting with you

• Speaking with your child (if the assessment is for them)

• Talking to other people who know you or your child, for example your parents or partner, or your child's teacher.

• Reviewing school reports if they are available.

The second step involves completing questionnaires which provide a measure of ADHD traits and thinking styles (called executive function).

We then provide a report summarising your experiences and how these meet the diagnostic criteria. Most importantly, it also includes recommendations to help you, or your child, to better understand your experiences and strategies to manage your difference at school, work, or home.

Autistic people experience the world differently which gives them unique perspectives and strengths.

Our assessment involves collecting information to get a detailed understanding of how your child engages with the world around them and other people. The focus is on providing an environment where your child feels comfortable which allows us to observe how they are without expectations.

• Meeting with you

• Speaking with your child (if the assessment is for them)

• Talking to other people who know you or your child, for example your parents or partner, or your child's teacher.

• Reviewing school reports if they are available.

The second step involves completing questionnaire which provide a measure of ADHD traits and thinking styles (called executive function).

We then provide a report summarising your experiences and how these meet the diagnostic criteria. Most importantly, it also includes recommendations to help you, or your child, to better understand your experiences and strategies to manage your difference at school, work, or home.