Every child deserves to be understood and have the tools and support they need to succeed. Our comprehensive assessments help uncover how a young person learns, thinks, and experiences the world. Whether exploring autism, ADHD, cognitive performance, or learning differences, we’re here to provide clarity and actionable insights.
Why Seek an Assessment for Your Child?
Parents and caregivers often notice when their child’s needs are unique. You may want to understand what is going on for your young person, a teacher may have suggested an assessment or you may have been referred by another health professional (e.g., GP, psychiatrist or paediatrician).
An assessment can:
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Identify strengths and challenges in learning, behavior, or social interactions.
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Provide a clear understanding of your child’s developmental and/or academic needs.
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Guide appropriate support at home and in school.
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Help structure a plan for moving forward.
Assessments Offered
💡 ADHD
💡 Autism
💡 Cognitive
Our assessments are ideal for:
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Children showing signs of developmental, attention, or learning differences.
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Families seeking to understand behavioral or academic challenges.
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Parents who want clarity about their child’s strengths and how to build on them.
Note. Learning assessments are offered on a case by case basis and require a referral from a doctor (i.e., psychiatrist or paediatrician).
What’s Involved in a Child Assessment?
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Parent/Caregiver Consultation
We begin by learning about your child’s history, behaviors, and goals for the assessment. This is a relaxed conversation to ensure we understand your concerns. -
Child-Centered Evaluation
Depending on the focus of the assessment, this may include:-
Autism and ADHD: Observing social, emotional, and behavioural patterns through play, interviews, and questionnaires.
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Cognitive Performance: Standardised IQ tests to understand how your child processes information and solves problems.
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Learning Assessments: Tools to explore reading, writing, math to identify strengths and any learning difficulties.
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Teacher Input/Consultation
We can collaborate with your child’s school to gather insights about their behaviour and performance in the classroom. This includes teacher questionnaires and reviewing academic history/school reports. -
Detailed Feedback and Recommendations
A comprehensive report with clear findings and practical recommendations tailored to your child’s needs at home and school.
Pricing
✔️ includes a comprehensive report
✔️ contains background information
✔️ detailed explanation of all assessments completed and relevant results
✔️ outline of relevant DSM-5-TR criteria and how they do or do not met it
✔️ provides a formal diagnosis
✔️ likely to be enough for continuity of care with another professional
(e.g., psychiatrist and/or other allied health)
Learning assessment pricing varies depending on the referral question. Please contact us to have a quote arranged.
Availability for assessments can be found under the menu 'Bookings' or contact me below.
FAQS
Below are some of the frequently asked questions regarding assessments for young people.
1. What ages do you assess?
Generally Amanda completes assessments for children 10 years and older. We offer autism, ADHD, cognitive, and learning assessments. If your child is aged between 6-9 assessments may be considered upon request and will require a referral from a psychiatrist or paediatrician.
2. How long does the assessment take?
The process typically involves several hours spread across multiple sessions, including interviews, testing, and feedback. This ensures a thorough and comfortable experience for your child. You will get a breakdown of sessions for your assessment when you book, so everyone know what to expect.
3. Will my child need to prepare for the assessment?
No special preparation is needed. We’ll provide tips (see below) to help your child feel at ease and ready to participate.
4. What if my child doesn’t cooperate during the session?
Our approach is flexible and child-friendly, ensuring we adapt to each child’s unique needs and pace. If there is any issues getting the information we need we will discuss this with you.
5. Can I stay with my child during the assessment?
For most assessment sessions we encourage parents to stay for the sessions. Generally, it is better if sibling/s do not attend. We’ll always discuss what works best for your family and work with the child's comfort in mind.
6. Do you offer a short report for a child under 18?
No, a short report is inadequate for children who are still in primary or secondary school. The short reports offered for adults are designed to help someone understand themselves better and not recommended for accessing formalised supports.
6. Do schools accept your recommendations?
Yes! Our detailed reports are designed to support individualised learning plans and other accommodations needed at school. We can also provide additional advocacy guidance if needed.
Tips for Preparing Your Child for an Assessment
1. Be Positive and Reassuring
Explain that the assessment is a chance to learn more about how they think, learn, and what their needs are.
2. Talk About What to Expect
Let your child know they’ll spend time with a friendly person who wants to learn more about them through games, questions, and activities. You can show them the page that has Facts About Amanda.
3. Address Any Worries
If your child feels nervous, remind them there are no “right” or “wrong” answers and acknowledge new/unfamiliar things can be scary. Remind them that the appointments are trying to understanding how their brain works.
4. Encourage a Good Night’s Sleep
Being well-rested helps kids feel their best. A relaxed morning routine before the session can also make a big difference.
5. Bring Comfort Items
Let your child bring a favourite toy, snack, book or sensory tool to help them feel more comfortable.
6. Dress Comfortably
Ensure your child wears clothing that’s comfortable for them, so they’re free to focus on the activities.
7. Plan for Breaks
Let your child know it’s okay to ask for a break if they need one. Our sessions are flexible and designed to accommodate their needs.