Frequently Asked Questions
How do we know if my child needs an assessment?
You might consider an assessment if you don't know what is wrong or you're not sure how to help. You will find an evaluation helpful if:
Your child has problems with learning or processing that do not seem to be getting better
Your child's therapist or medical doctor needs more information about what's going on
You have tried everything, and just don't know what to do
The problem is affecting your child's self-esteem, his friendships, his mood, or family life
You thought your child would grow out of the issue, but it doesn't seem to be "just a phase"
Your child is doing "okay" for now, but you're worried about what lies ahead -- maybe you're thinking ahead to middle school, high school, or college
Your child just got a new diagnosis and you don't know what it means
What happens during testing?
Caregivers are expected to stay in the office or in the coffee shop in the lobby.
Testing is an event during which your child completes many different kinds of tasks one on one with me. These interactive tasks are designed to find out the unique ways that your child thinks, processes, and learns. The day of testing is a lot like a day of school for your child. He or she will be asked to do many different activities, depending on your child's age and your questions. Test day activities might include:
Hands-on tasks like drawing, looking at pictures, solving puzzles, and building
Verbal activities like listening, answering questions, and sharing what she knows
Problem-solving tasks like discovering a pattern, or figuring out how two things are alike
Learning and memory activities like retelling a story or learning a list of words
Giving me her perspective by telling me about school, talking about her family and friends, sharing her favourite activities and what she is good at, and filling out paper-and-pencil questionnaires
Technology activities like completing a test on a computer
Academic tasks like reading, writing, and math problems
What is the cost?
Assessment: Assessments range in price from $2500 to $3000 and will be determined at the intake interview.
Therapeutic Consultation: Sessions are priced according to the Psychologists Association of Alberta fee schedule at $200 per hour.
Please check with your insurance provider to learn about your coverage options.