Psychoeducational
assessment – 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 psychoeducational 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 psychoeducational assessment may be used to help determine if any development or learning challenges are present and your child’s areas of strength.
What is a 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
How it works
Our patient and caring psychologists will assess your child’s psychoeducational status. This involves:
Intake
Our psychologists seek first to understand your concerns. From there, we review your child’s academic records and gather background information. This helps us determine which relevant tests to administer.
Assessment
Testing usually involves a combination of:
- Cognitive and intellectual testing
- Academic achievement testing
- Attention and executive functioning tests
- Emotional and behavioural testing
These tests can identify weaknesses and disorders, as well as your child’s strengths and preferred learning styles. This can lead to more tailored and effective educational interventions — ultimately guiding your child toward success.
Treatment
Upon scoring the above tests, your psychologist will determine the best step forward for you and your child. This may involve specific interventions or accommodations in school or for homework. It may also involve specific therapies or recommended strategies. As a result, your child receives the support they need to thrive and grow.
Frequently asked questions
Psychoeducational assessment
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.
What is typically included in the psychoeducational 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
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 before 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.