Assessments

What is a psychoeducational assessment?
A psychoeducational assessment is usually recommended when a child is not doing well in school. Parents may hear from teachers that their child is having difficulty paying attention, is restless, does not complete schoolwork, has difficulties with organization and taking initiative, is not meeting their full-potential, or is performing below grade level in reading, writing, or math. At home, children may be irritable or uncooperative, may refuse to do their homework, may complain of not liking school, and may appear sad and/or anxious. A psychoeducational assessment is conducted to help explain the causes of these difficulties.

A psychoeducational assessment begins with a parent interview. This is then followed by a number of psychometric testing sessions. Tests include a thorough assessment of intelligence (using the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children-IV), various tests of academic achievement, measures of memory ability and attentional processes, and assessment of behavioural and emotional functioning.

The results of the assessment and recommendations for intervention are presented in a detailed written report, and are shared with parents (and even the child themselves) in a feedback session. Phone consultation may also occur with the child’s school.