Through the use of standard psychological tests and practice, the educational psychologist will attempt to answer the questions that have brought you to the assessment, responding to the presenting problem or concerns regarding the child’s learning and development. Parents are able to inquire about procedures throughout the assessment process, and have the right to know the test results and interpretations, and will receive a conclusion and recommendations based on the findings of the assessment.
The psycho-educational assessment process typically goes as follows:
The parent intake interview
This is the first step which involves a discussion regarding the reason for assessment (what are the concerns or the presenting problems), and the psychologist will come to learn all relevant information about the child’s history and background.
The assessment sessions
During these sessions, the psychologist spends time with the child (interviewing and administering various psychometric tests). It may be necessary to schedule a school observation or further sessions, and it can be a lengthy process.
Gathering collateral information
With the parents’ consent, the educational psychologist may need to contact third parties (teachers, doctors or therapists) involved in the child’s case. Information may be gathered in the form of an interview or questionnaire, perusal of school reports and other documents.
Interpretation
The educational psychologist will interpret the findings of the assessment and formulate the case (results, summary, conclusion and recommendations). If requested or required, the educational psychologist will write a psycho-educational assessment report.
The parent feedback session
At this appointment, parents receive the findings of the assessment and discuss the recommendations and the way forward. It is likely that parents will be referred to various resources or other therapists to provide interventions and supports indicated.
If you have any further questions about the assessment process or would like to book the initial parent interview, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.