Big Questions, Big Concerns
The question, “what if?” can be worrisome for many parents. What if… I could understand how my child learns… I knew why my daughter is struggling… my child or adolescent has a learning disability… my son has ADHD or… my child is gifted. While teachers differentiate instruction in their attempts to reach all their students, some children require even greater support for, or access to, specific strategies. Other questions, “what happens next?” and “what should I do? ” will surely follow.
What We Do
What If…? Psychology specializes in providing psycho-educational assessments for children and adolescents. These psycho-educational assessments deliver answers to the big questions, some of which are posed above, by providing the information and specific recommendations parents need to guide them as they search out and secure the supports required for their child. Understanding the reasons behind a child’s learning difficulties, school performance, attention, or emotional regulation, is the first step in helping both parents and teachers identify and implement successful methodologies.
The Process is Straightforward
- Parents or teachers express concerns and decide to seek a psycho-educational assessment.
- An initial interview is held with parents to understand their concerns about a child’s development. This can be held virtually.
- Further information may be sought, such as interviews with teachers, and from report cards, or previous assessments (if any) in order to compile a comprehensive understanding of the child.
- Two, 3-hour, in-person assessment sessions are scheduled for the child. Sessions typically involve an intelligence test, memory testing, as well as assessments of reading, math, and writing skills. Additional tests are included, based on requirements, in order to determine why learning difficulties are occurring.
- A feedback meeting is held with parents to explain the results of the assessment, provide the diagnosis, and answer questions. Recommendations are discussed for next steps to support the child’s learning and development.
- A comprehensive written report is provided that details all the findings of the assessment and recommendations for next steps.
- What If…? Psychology offers timely results! Reports are presented within 10 days of the last testing session.
- Parents share the report with their child’s school team, follow up with the child’s physician, and seek support through community agencies.
Who We Are
What if…? Psychology is the private practice of Kate Davidson. Kate is a Psychological Associate registered with the College of Psychologists of Ontario. She has over 17 years of experience working in the public school system and in private practice. Kate works with students who have a variety of learning needs, such as learning disabilities, intellectual disabilities, ADHD, and giftedness. She is passionate about helping parents understand their children’s learning so they can work collaboratively with the education system to support their children in reaching each child’s potential.
Located at 67 Frid Street, Hamilton, ON, What if…? Psychology serves Hamilton, Burlington, and wide range of surrounding areas. Visit What if…Psychology to learn more. Reach out to Kate by email at [email protected] or use the Contact Us form on our website.
