Assessment Services

Frequently Asked Questions

An assessment provides a holistic picture of the individual and how they are doing in a range of domains.

What does the process look like?

A psychoeducational assessment is an in-depth exploration of a child’s abilities in verbal and nonverbal reasoning, mental processing, memory, academic ability, and how well they are engaging with the world socially, emotionally, and behaviourally. The process varies based on client age, demographics, and need.

When can I expect the results?

Debriefs are typically booked around 3-4 weeks after testing is done and we receive all the information back from the parents and teachers/school. In all, the process takes roughly six weeks. We strive to complete assessments in a timely manner. 

Why should we choose Thrive?

Our ultimate goal is based in advocacy: we strive to not only develop common understanding between all assessment stakeholders in support of the youth and their growth, but also build the base for the child to advocate for themselves and find success as they grow and mature. The philosophy of Thrive’s assessment program is to be ethical, transparent, and strength-focused.Thrive’s assessments are tailored to the individual and highlight both strengths and areas of need. We provide clear, straightforward suggestions for support and intervention along with the results. We want you to leave feeling understood and empowered.

Is an assessment for children and youth only?

Assessments are not just for kids and teens – adults can absolutely benefit from them too! Assessments can be a way to learn more about ourselves, set goals, and to also identify or diagnose conditions that may have been missed earlier in life. Even in adulthood, we can have unanswered questions about our learning abilities and talents, and an assessment can help identify areas of strength which you can tap into and use whether it is in your personal life, education, or career. 

What information will I get from the RESULTS OF THE ASSESSMENT?

Our assessments are not just numbers and confusing data - we are providing you with a clear, comprehensive picture of the child in their world. We are identifying specific areas of need and challenge, as well as giving you the why and how behind their difficulties. Our assessment reports also provide specific resources and strategies tailored to the family’s and individual’s needs and strengths for home and school.

Do I need a referral?

While assessments are often suggested by school staff, tutors, or doctors, you do not need a formal referral to have a psychoeducational assessment. 

Should I tell my child that they’re going for testing?

Yes. We recommend being as transparent as possible. No one likes to be blindsided – doing so can hinder the assessment process and our ability to build trust and rapport with your child. We will work with you to explain the process in appropriate language for your child.

If you are unsure of what to tell them, you can let them know that the assessment is done to look at their strengths and weaknesses in a bunch of different areas.It may be helpful to think of an assessment like putting together a puzzle whose pieces have been scattered. We are collecting the pieces and bringing them all together to help everyone make sense of what the child is experiencing and how everyone can help.

For younger kids and pre-teens, it can be helpful to use language like “learning activities”. For example, “we are going to do some learning activities with the psychologist so we can figure out how we can help you be the best you. They’re going to tell us more about how your brain works and how you learn. You will need to miss some school for this.”

Will it mean that my child needs medication?

Psychologists are not prescribers. However, if the assessment points towards the individual having a disorder (i.e., they clearly meet the DSM criteria), once the assessment is complete you may wish to take it to your family doctor and work with them for further medical support, such as prescribed medication.

Should my child come to the debrief?

Absolutely! The psychologist will make sure to communicate the results in a way that your child can understand. This is their journey, and our goal is for the child to leave feeling better understood. 

What is included in the price?

Our fees are inclusive of time spent on testing, interviews and communicating with parents and school staff, file review, scoring, report writing, testing materials, rating scale administration and report debrief. 

When is payment due?

Full payment is due on the day of testing. The cost of the 1.5 hr clinical interview/consultation (regular rate), will be put towards the final cost of the assessment should you choose to go forward with it.