Victoria Plouffe

Child Psychologist - educational consultant

Little girl kid looking through magnifying glass.

Your

Child

Understood.



Frequently Asked Questions



Why should I pursue a psychoeducational assessment for my child?


Little Girl in Glasses Thinking at School

A psychoeducational assessment is a valuable tool for better understanding the learning profile of your child. This may include answering such questions as:


  • What are my child’s strengths and areas of need?
  • What learning strategies would best suit my child?
  • Does my child have a Learning Disability?
  • Why does my child struggle with attention and concentration?
  • Is my child gifted?









Stage One (20 minutes)


During this stage, an initial consultation will take place. This will include a discussion of your child’s needs and your concerns and questions as a parent. The initial consultation is Free of Charge.


What is involved in a typical assessment?



Stage Two (1-2 Hours)


Parents are involved in an initial interview during stage two. The purpose of the interview is to discuss your child. This will include gathering background information, developmental history, current functioning, and areas of success. Additional information may be gathered from others close to your child as needed. It is also very helpful for the psychologist to review any medical records, school records, and/or other information that may be pertinent to your child.


Stage Three (3-6 hours over 1-2 visits)


Stage three is where your child works one-on-one with the psychologist completing a variety of standardized assessment measures. This may include intellectual measures, academic achievement determination, memory skills, visual-motor skills, receptive and expressive language, and/or social-emotional functioning. Additional checklists and questionnaires may also be required. The exact assessment measures will be determined based on the needs of your child.

Although this may seem intimidating, your child will view the process as a series of games, puzzles, and activities. It is best to share with your child that the psychologist will be working with them to figure out how their brain likes to think or find out their learning superpowers! There is no right or wrong answer and no marks. It is fun!


Stage Four (3-5 hours)


In this stage of the process, the psychologist will analyze all the data gathered. This information will then be compiled into a comprehensive report. The report will include a summary of your child’s functioning in all areas evaluated, diagnostic opinions as appropriate and recommendations and strategies to support the positive development of


Stage Five (1-2 hours)


The final phase of the assessment process consists of a feedback meeting with parents. At times, it is appropriate for older children to also attend the feedback meeting. During this meeting, the results of the assessment are shared in easy-to-understand language. Parents are provided with a copy of the assessment report as well as additional handouts. Next steps will be discussed, including how to advocate for the needs of your child.


Stage Six (As Needed)


If desired, the psychologist can also provide support to others involved with your child. This may include meeting with school personnel to discuss the results of the assessment, offering support with individualized learning plans, and/or assisting with community resources.


What are the benefits of a psychoeducational assessment?




Little Girl with Glasses Reading

Understanding your child and how they learn is one of the greatest gifts you can provide them as they navigate their academic journey.


Additional benefits of a psychoeducation assessment include:

  • Setting realistic academic expectations according to your child’s strengths and relative weaknesses or challenges
  • Identifying what strategies, tools, and resources will maximize your child’s learning
  • Determining the most effective academic environment and strategies for your child’s individual learning style










How much does a psychoeducational assessment cost?



Kids learning and writing in school.

Psychoeducational assessments are charged at a flat rate. This can range from $1100 (Gifted Assessment for entrance requirements) to $3680 (Comprehensive assessment of cognitive abilities, academic achievement, and attention or mood concerns). The typical cost for a learning-based assessment consisting of understanding your child’s intellectual abilities and academic achievement is approximately $2500. Detailed quotes will be provided following the initial consultation.


An initial deposit is charged following the consultation and once informed consent has been received. The remaining balance is spread out throughout the assessment process. Final payment must be received before the final feedback and prior to the written report being released. Fees can be paid via e-transfer or credit card.


Fees may be partially or fully covered by extended benefit plans. These fees can be distributed among family members to optimize insurance coverage. Detailed invoices are provided for insurance purposes.









Victoria Plouffe

Child Psychologist - educational consultant

Portrait of a Girl in Glasses Pointing Her Finger Up

Ready to understand your child?

Please reach out via phone or email for a FREE consultation regarding your child.


Email

Phone

victoria@childlearninglab.ca

403.771.3793