PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSESSMENTS FOR KIDS
Assessments for Psychoeducation, ADHD & ASD for ages 6 and up
Assessments & Testing for Kids & Teens
As a parent/caregiver of a child or teen, you always want the best for them. It’s normal to feel overwhelmed, concerned, stressed, and frustrated when pursuing a clinical diagnosis. But you’re not alone. Our team is here to help you navigate the assessment process and guide your family along the way.
Bhatia Psychology Group uses sophisticated testing methods to assess your child’s development and cognitive abilities. A psychological assessment may be used to help your child get educational support, service access, therapies, or special accommodations.
Types of Assessments
Our assessments are available for children ages 6 and up. Below, we provide brief overviews of what types of assessments we offer and when they are recommended.
Psychoeducational Assessment:
It’s hard to watch your child struggle in school or fall behind in their academic pursuits. A psychoeducational assessment involves a thorough review of a child’s development to identify any learning challenges. Using a variety of assessment tools, the practitioner can narrow down areas to focus on, as well as areas of strength. It may be used to help your child get educational support, a learning plan, or specific accommodations at school. The assessment can also help to dispel misconceptions about why the child may be falling behind or acting out and so forth.
It’s recommended when:
They are continually falling behind in school
You want to identify learning challenges or deficits
Traditional intervention methods haven’t helped
If they require special accommodations in school
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Assessment:
ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that impacts about 5-9% of children in Canada. It can spill over into every area of a child’s life, impacting their ability to make or keep friends, interact with their family, build self-esteem, and look after their own personal safety. However, with the right support and treatment plan, people with ADHD can thrive and live happy, fulfilling lives.
An ADHD assessment evaluates a number of skills, including attention, self-regulation, concentration, impulse control, and organization. Subtypes of ADHD include Primarily Hyperactive and Impulsive ADHD, Primarily Inattentive ADHD (ADD), or Combined Type ADHD. Knowing the subtype is helpful for a treatment plan and support strategy that will work best.
It’s recommended when:
They are easily distracted
Has problems concentrating or focusing
Behavioural or conduct difficulties
Partake in destructive behaviours
Regularly acts impulsively
Trouble staying on task (specifically those that need sustained mental effort)
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Assessment:
Besides psychoeducational and ADHD assessments, we offer testing for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The evaluation is suited to a child/teen who potentially has high functioning ASD.
A proper diagnosis and understanding of how your child’s brain functions will help them get the right tools and support to reach their full potential. Through an ASD Assessment, we evaluate a person’s cognitive ability, processing skills, language skills, social skills, academic capability and view of the world.
Many children with ASD — especially those who have the support and strategies they need — can achieve happiness and success throughout their lives. An assessment helps to understand ourselves, to use what we have and get what we need.
It’s recommended when:
Displays social communication delays
Has few or very fixed interests
Is overly sensitive to light, sound, smell, and touch
Struggles to engage with their peers and teachers
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it important to get an ADHD evaluation for my child?
An ADHD evaluation gives your child a proper diagnosis (or rules one out). This can help your child thrive via individual-specific educational and home support, improving their quality of life and learning skills. It can also provide information regarding your child’s strengths and help their self-esteem.
Why is it important to get a psychoeducational assessment for my child?
A psychoeducational assessment is common — and many children require them throughout their educational journey. It helps your child identify their strengths and weaknesses, empowering them (and their parents/caregivers) by providing a roadmap for success.
Why is it important to get an ASD assessment for my child?
An ASD assessment provides an action plan that helps support your child with learning and social challenges. By giving them the social and educational support they need, they can thrive and reach their full potential.
What is typically included in the psychological assessment?
On average, an assessment includes the following. However, since every child is unique, the details are to be confirmed during the initial appointment:
- Consultation
- Review of background information/developmental history
- Social/Emotional/Behavioural screening
- Cognitive Assessment
- Academic Assessment
- Assessment of cognitive processes
- Assessment of daily living skills
- Scoring and report writing
- Feedback appointment
What is the fee for the psychological assessment?
The total fee for a psychoeducational assessment can range from $2200-$3000, depending on the needs of the child. Prices are subject to changes.
What is typically included in the ADHD Assessment?
We include the same as the standard psychologist assessment (listed above), plus the following. However, since every child is unique, the details are to be confirmed during the initial appointment.
- Additional screening measures
- Direct assessment of focus and attention
- More extensive background history
- Additional scoring and reporting
What is the fee for the psychoeducational assessment plus ADHD assessment?
The total fee for a psychoeducational assessment plus ADHD assessment is approximately $3000. Prices are subject to change.
What is typically included in the Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Assessment?
On average, an assessment includes the following. However, every child is different so the details are confirmed in the initial appointment.
- Consultation and intake
- Screening measures
- Extensive developmental history collection
- Direct assessment
- Scoring and reporting
- Feedback session
What is the fee for the Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Assessment?
This can vary greatly depending on whether the child needs a full assessment or just an ASD assessment. Contact us for more information.
How should I prepare my child for the assessment?
If it’s been indicated that your child requires a psychological assessment, your psychologist will provide the necessary information and requirements in advance of your appointment. Typically, you may be asked to bring in copies of report cards, questionnaires or forms.
Will my child's school be informed of the assessment results?
No, not unless you provide explicit written or verbal consent to release the information.
A note about assessment fees ...
Please note: All assessments vary depending on several factors, such as assessed need and child characteristics. Also, fees can be paid per appointment or when the full assessment has been completed. Please contact us directly with any questions. These fees are not covered by school boards or OHIP, however, there is often some coverage available through extended insurance providers and provincial tax incentives.