Psycho-Educational Assessments
What Does It Mean For Children And Adolescents?
If your child is performing below grade level expectations, or if their grades are sustained only through high levels of effort and support, or if they are having reading/
What Is Involved?
The assessment includes an interview, a review of academic reports and/or prior learning assessments, computerized measures, standardized testing, and measures of executive, neurological and behavioral functioning. A formal report is provided during a review session to interpret the assessment results with recommendations on strategies to support your child’s future success. Parents may share this report with the school to help teachers understand the child’s needs based on learning in the classroom. The aim is to direct purposeful teaching and intervention efforts i.e. an Individual Program Plan (IPP), access to extra support and services, adjustments to curriculum, academic accommodations i.e. extra time, assistive technology, where needed.
What About Post-Secondary Students And Adults?
Many motivated college and university students encounter difficulties related to learning or emotional well-being that may hinder their potential in their post- secondary programs. An assessment is a valuable investment to determine if the difficulties you experience are the result of an underlying condition i.e. a learning disorder, ADHD or a mental health condition. The aim is to understand your learning strengths and needs and/or mental health issues to develop a comprehensive plan to help move you forward. This plan consists of tailored recommendations i.e. accommodations to ensure accessibility, and strategies based on your strengths and areas of need. In this way, an assessment can have a positive and life changing impact by reducing barriers to your success and help you achieve your goals.
How Much Does It Cost?
The assessment process helps gather the necessary information to fully understand and access funding for special needs both within the school system and out. Depending on your insurance plan and extended health care benefits packages, as well as some government sponsored agencies, including Children’s services, Alberta Human Services and Access Mental Health. Private psychologists may offer sliding scales and discounted rates.
What Do I Get Out Of It?
The most important outcome is that you walk away with a better understanding of the difficulties identified and what that means in going forward. Depending on the reason for assessment in the first place, outcomes may include a formal report, verbal feedback, a referral letter i.e. physician, for study or workplace accommodations, application to Mensa, etc.
Myth Vs. Fact
Myth: ADHD is over-diagnosed and over-treated.
Fact: Despite the serious consequences, studied show that ADHD remains under-diagnosed and under-treated. Less than half of those with ADHD receive appropriate treatment.
Sources:
The Myths and Facts, Janssen-Ortho Inc. Brochure, 2015. Toronto: Janssen-Ortho
Roché Herbst
M.A.R. Psych
info@wehcs.com
My practice location is from my home office in Bragg Creek Mondays and Wednesdays 10am-5pm; Calgary office Tuesdays and Thursdays 9am-4pm. Call or text me on (403) 510-9984 or email: info@wehcs.com
