Q: What exactly is a psychoeducational assessment?

A: It’s a comprehensive evaluation of your child’s learning, thinking, attention, and social-emotional skills. Think of it as a “full picture” of how your child learns and processes information, so you can understand their strengths and challenges and get practical guidance for school and home.

Q: What is the process?

A: Most assessments start with a parent intake meeting, followed by child assessment sessions and a feedback meeting to review results. Along the way, we also include questionnaires and often speak with teachers to get the full picture of your child’s strengths and challenges.

The exact process depends on the type of assessment:

• Comprehensive Psychoeducational Assessment – Parent intake, two child sessions (cognitive, academic, attention/executive functioning, social-emotional), questionnaires, teacher interview, and feedback.

• GATE Program Gifted Assessment – Parent intake, cognitive and academic sessions, and feedback.

• Westmount Charter School Assessment – Parent intake, cognitive session, and feedback.

The whole process usually takes 4-8 weeks from start to finish, depending on scheduling, though sometimes it can be shorter, depending on the type of assessment.

Q: What does the assessment include?

A: Assessments give you a clear picture of how your child learns, thinks, and navigates school and daily life. We typically look at cognitive abilities, academic skills (reading, writing, math), attention and executive functioning, and social-emotional functioning. Most importantly, an assessment helps answer the questions parents often have:

• Is my child struggling in school because of a learning difference or something else?

• Do they have ADHD, dyslexia, or another learning or attention challenge?

• What are their strengths, and how can we build on them?

• What supports, strategies, or accommodations will help them thrive at home and at school?

By the end, you’ll have a comprehensive understanding of your child’s profile, with practical next steps and guidance tailored to their unique needs.

Q: What do the parent and child sessions look like?

A: Parent sessions — intake and feedback — are online, so you can participate from home, work, or anywhere that’s convenient for you.

Child sessions are in-person, typically lasting 2–2.5 hours. While your child is working with me, you’re welcome to stay in our office waiting area with tea, coffee, and Wi-Fi, or simply drop off and pick up at the start and end of each session.

Q: Will my child feel tested or pressured?

A: No! Assessments are designed to be engaging and supportive. Children often enjoy the activities, and the focus is on seeing the whole child, not just scores. We work at a pace that helps your child feel comfortable and confident. We build in breaks, time for a favourite drink or snack, and even small prizes at the end of each session!

Q: Can I book just the intake meeting first?

A: Absolutely. You can start with the parent intake to get the process rolling and see what’s most appropriate for your child. From there, we can schedule the full assessment sessions or additional steps as needed.

Q: Who will be doing the assessment?

A: All assessments are conducted by me, a Registered Psychologist and Board Certified Behaviour Analyst. Occasionally, provisional psychologists assist, but all work is closely supervised to maintain the highest standard of care.

Q: How will I receive results?

A: You’ll get a comprehensive report that explains your child’s strengths, challenges, and practical strategies you can use at home and school. We’ll also review the results with you in a feedback session so you can ask questions and discuss next steps.

Q: Are your assessments covered by insurance?

A: We work with you to optimize your benefits and make the process as straightforward as possible. While coverage varies, we’ll help you understand what’s included and minimize out-of-pocket costs.

Q: How do I know if my child needs an assessment?

A: If you’ve noticed challenges in learning, attention, social skills, or emotional well-being, or if teachers or schools have raised concerns, an assessment can give clarity. Even if you’re unsure, a conversation through a free 20-minute consultation can help you decide on next steps.