Assessment
Psychoeducational and psychological assessment for a range of presenting difficulties and concerns is provided at the Connections Clinic, including:
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Specific Learning Disorders (SLD) (i.e., learning disability, dyslexia)
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Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
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Cognitive/intellectual functioning
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Anxiety and anxiety related disorders, such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and panic
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Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
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Depression and mood disorders
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Behavioural challenges
Each assessment is designed to answer a specific referral question. For children and adolescents, the assessment process typically includes the following:
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An intake interview with the parent(s) and child/adolescent.
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A clinical interview with the child/adolescent.
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Individual psychoeducational testing with the child/adolescent over 2-4 appointments, depending on the nature of the referral question (approximately 5-6 hours).
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The completion of questionnaires by the child’s parent(s) and teacher. Self-report questionnaires may be completed by the child/adolescent in some circumstances.
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Review of the child/adolescent’s school report cards and previous assessment reports, if applicable.
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A feedback session with the family to review the assessment results and recommendations.
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A comprehensive psychoeducational report (including recommendations) will be provided to the family.
The adult assessment process is similar to the child/adolescent assessment and may include interviews and questionnaires with the client's partner or family member.
Types of Assessment
A number of assessments are available depending on your individual needs or those of your child. Select assessments can be completed virtually upon request.
Psychoeducational Assessment
Does there seem to be something getting in the way of your child's school success? Do you have concerns about their reading, writing, math or learning skills and work habits? A psychoeducational assessment can help you understand your child's unique "learning profile." This includes an assessment of cognitive and academic skills and social, emotional and/or behavioral functioning.
Mental Health &
Behavior Assessments
Are you or your child struggling with mental health concerns or challenging behaviors? This type of assessment can identify symptoms or a diagnosis of anxiety or related disorders (panic, obsessive-compulsive disorder), low mood and depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and behavioral disorders, among other concerns.
Developmental
Assessment
Do you have concerns about your child's development and ability to carry out certain skills or behaviors independently? This may include skills needed to function daily, such as communicating, taking care of personal needs (e.g., getting dressed), and acting in a safe manner. A developmental assessment examines intellectual functioning and daily living skills.
Complex
Assessment
A complex assessment is conducted when there are multiple questions about a child or adolescent's development and/or learning. This assessment may also include an evaluation of significant social, emotional, or behavioral concerns.
ADHD
Assessment
Are you concerned about your child's ability to focus and block out distractions? Does your child seem like they are always talking and moving, or do they act without thinking? Does your child struggle with organization, planning ahead or learning from consequences? Using interviews, questionnaires and observations, this assessment can determine the presence of ADHD.
Adult
Assessments
We also provide a range of adult assessments, including the assessment of ADHD, learning disorders, and cognitive functioning. Mental health assessments are also available.
