Psychoeducational Assessment
~ Frequently Asked Questions ~
Considering a psycho-educational assessment for your child or teen can be an overwhelming process. Here are some additional insights about our assessments.
What will my child experience during the assessment?
It may surprise you to know that most children really enjoy the testing experience! While they may not like all aspects of testing (such as academic tasks that are especially challenging), your clinician will bring a fun, encouraging demeanor to help your child or teen feel confident to put forth their very best effort. (And if they happen to win a game or two during breaks, all the better!)
How long is each testing session?
Just as your child or teen is unique, your clinician will tailor each testing session to meet the individual performance and needs of your child. If your child has trouble paying attention, a few extra breaks between subtests may be needed to help them work at their best. Or, perhaps your child needs extra 'think time,' and while they don't want to take breaks, the assessment session may take a bit longer than usual. Generally, though, most children are able to complete testing activities in testing blocks one-to-two hours, with two or three testing sessions required before your clinician gathers enough information to provide reliable, comprehensive results.
How is assessment information used in schools?
In addition to providing valuable insights into how your child or teen learns best, a formal assessment report will be prepared by your clinician. Should you choose to provide the report to your child's school, this information will outline important strategies and/or accommodations that may support your child's academic success within a classroom setting. To support children with Special Education needs, your child's school may utilize the report (and any diagnostic information contained therein) to create an Individualized Program Plan (IPP) for your child. Please consult your child's educators for information about how an IPP may affect your child's particular programming at school.
Does insurance cover the cost of an assessment?
Many personal health-insurance plans cover a portion of psychological services, including psycho-educational assessment. Prior to scheduling with Begin, you are encouraged to review the details of your particular insurance plan and/or consult with your insurance provider to ensure you know whether or not assessment services are included within your family's coverage. Once payment has been received by Begin, parents/guardians' are responsible for submitting claims directly to their insurance providers for applicable reimbursement.
Are assessment fees tax deductible?
If you are not covered under an insurance plan, you may be able to utilize your Begin Psychology receipt(s) as a medical expense for income tax purposes in Canada. Please consult with your tax professional for further information and guidance.
When will I receive the written report?
Once the assessment has been completed, and the results have been verbally shared and discussed with you, the report will be sent to you by email in a timely manner (usually within two-to-three weeks of the results-review meeting). Should you require the report in an expedited timeframe, please speak with your clinician to determine if such a timeline may be accommodated. Please note that payment for the assessment as a whole must be received in full before the written report is released.
Can I be in the room during my child's testing?
Given the confidential nature of assessment instruments, parents/guardians cannot be in the testing room while the assessment is underway; however, you are more than welcome to join for testing breaks if doing so would be helpful for your child.
Do you offer social/emotional or Autism assessments?
While your clinician may explore social/emotional issues as part of the assessment process, learning must be the primary area of inquiry for our evaluations. Begin does not offer Autism assessments.