Frequently Asked Questions about Assessment

What does a typical assessment process involve?

1. Assessment session with individual child - may run over one or two sessions, each lasting 1.5 to 2 hours.
2. Assessment data is then scored and a comprehensive written report is produced.
3. A feedback session is conducted with parents (child presence is optional). This takes about 20 minutes. 
4. Finally, the report and any specific recommendations are discussed with the school (via telephone).

What should I tell my child?

For younger children:
"We are going to visit Deborah who is a psychologist. She sees lots of children your age and really enjoys helping them with their learning. It will be OK to call her Deb. You are going to do a variety of activities. Some activities will involve blocks or putting puzzles together, and Deborah will also ask you questions about lots of different things. It will be fun and there is nothing to worry about."

For older children:
"You are going to see Deborah, who is an educational psychologist. She helps students better understand their individual learning profile. You will be completing some standard psychological tests that are designed to assess your strengths and weaknesses in a variety of areas. The process will involve blocks, colorful patterns, some memory recall of digits and some verbal questions. It is important that you do your best and try to answer all the questions presented to you. It will be fun and there is nothing to worry about."

What is included in the assessment report?

Your child's profile will be mapped on a graph in relation to standardised results for children of the same age. The report will contain background information, results, discussion of the results and detailed recommendations - including teaching strategies and individual learning strategy recommendations.

How much does assessment cost?

• Full Educational Assessment (WISC, WPPSI or WAIS plus WIAT) - $950
• WISC-IV only - $650
• WPPS-III only - $650
• WIAT-II only - $750
• Advice on previous WISC reports - $200.00 per hour
• School visits to discuss reports - $300.00 per hour plus travel costs**

** Within 30 minutes travel time from Albert Park.

What is your assessment cancellation policy?

If for any reason you need to cancel an appointment please provide at least 72 hours notice.

If you provide less than 72 hours notice of cancellation for an appointment you may be charged a cancellation fee of 50% of the full fee for the missed session.

If you provide less than 24 hours notice you may be charged 100% of the full fee for the missed session.

Full cancellation of the assessment service at any time after booking will incur a minimum administration fee of $100 (in addition to any appointment cancellation fee - if applicable.

Medicare rebates

Please note that Medicare rebates are not available for psychological assessment. You may be able to claim a rebate for a "long consultation" from your private health insurance provider. Please check this directly with your provider.

Do I need to pay a deposit?

Yes, a $300 deposit is required to secure an assessment booking.

What is the WISC-IV?

The WISC-IV (Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children, Fourth Edition) is an individually administered clinical instrument for assessing cognitive ability of children between the ages of 6 years through to 16 years 11 months. The test provides subtest and composite scores which represent intellectual functioning in specific cognitive domains as well as a composite score which represents general intellectual ability. The WISC-IV assessment takes from 1 ½ to 2 hours to complete. The report and scoring of results takes a qualified psychologist from 2 to 6 hours to complete. Learn more about the WISC in this post on the School Psychology Blog.

What is the WPPSI-III?

The WPPSI-III (Wechsler Preschool & Primary Scale of Intelligence, Third Edition) is a reliable and valid measure of intelligence in young children that is more age appropriate and user friendly for young children. It is a clinically useful tool for diagnosis and planning in early childhood. It helps to assess school readiness and general intelligence in young children. Learn more about the WPPSI in this post on the School Psychology Blog.

What is the WIAT-II?

The WIAT-II (Wechsler Individual Achievement Test, Second Edition) is a comprehensive measurement tool useful for achievement skills assessment and curriculum planning for preschool children through to adults. Emerging academic skills are assessed in reading, maths and written and oral language to target instrumental needs of children and guide them to competency. It examines the following areas:

• Reading
• Maths
• Written Language
• Oral Language (optional)

All or some of these subtests will be administered, depending on the learning needs of your child. The WIAT-II takes from 1 to 2 hours to complete. The report and scoring of results takes a qualified psychologist from 2 to 4 hours to complete.

What is an "Educational Assessment" and why is it beneficial?

A full Educational Assessment consists of two key tests - a cognitive test (WISC or WPPSI) and an achievement test (WIAT). The combination of these two assessments provides an excellent overview of a student's cognitive abilities and aptitude. This helps to identify the most appropriate and beneficial teaching and learning strategies for a student’s individual needs.

More questions?

Please contact us if you have any questions not answered in this FAQ.

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