What Is a Psychological Assessment?

A psychological assessment is a structured evaluation of an individual’s cognitive, emotional, behavioural, and mental health profile. When also assessing a learning profile, the assessment is referred to as a "psychoeducational assessment." Depending on the referral question, assessments may involve:

* A detailed intake and clinical interviews
* Standardized testing and questionnaires
* Behavioural observations
* Gathering information from relevant informants (with consent)
* Careful interpretation of results
* A comprehensive written report
* A feedback session to review findings and recommendations

Assessments may or may not result in a formal diagnosis. In all cases, they identify **strengths, challenges, and practical recommendations** tailored to the individual.

Who We Work With

We provide assessment services for:

* Children and adolescents
* Adults (16+)
* Families seeking clarity and guidance

We work closely with individuals, parents, and (when appropriate) schools, healthcare providers, and other professionals to ensure assessments are meaningful and useful in real life.

Our Assessment Team

Assessments are conducted by registered psychologists or supervised trainees. Our psychologists are supported by a skilled team of clinical assistants and psychometrists. All team members receive ongoing training, supervision, and oversight by our Clinical Director, Dr. Julia Ryan. Please see below for an overview of our assessment team. 

A Thoughtful and Transparent Process

We believe it’s important to be upfront about what assessment involves. The process can be:

* Emotionally demanding or tiring
* Stressful at times, especially when discussing personal experiences
* Clarifying—but occasionally surprising or challenging

An assessment is a diagnostic process, not a form of therapy. While it does not directly teach coping strategies, coaching for implementation of recommendations, or provide treatment, it offers essential insight that can guide next steps.

We take care to minimize risks by providing a supportive environment, pacing the process thoughtfully, explaining results clearly, and making space for questions and discussion.

Family Involvement

We understand that family involvement is often an important part of a meaningful and effective assessment—particularly for children and youth. Our approach balances collaboration with clear boundaries to protect the client’s wellbeing, autonomy, and the integrity of the assessment process.

For children and adolescents, we typically involve parents or caregivers to gather information about the child’s functioning across settings and to support understanding of results and recommendations. For children under 16, we strongly encourage the participation of both parents whenever possible, as this helps us develop a more complete and balanced picture of the child’s needs.

When parents are separated, divorced, or experiencing conflict, we use clear procedures to ensure services remain child-focused, ethical, and non‑litigious. Psychological assessment services are provided solely for the purpose of understanding and supporting the child’s mental health and learning needs—not for custody, access, or parental fitness determinations. Our clinicians do not provide opinions or recommendations related to custody or access, and assessment reports should not be interpreted in that context.

To maintain neutrality and fairness, communication with clinicians is typically transparent and inclusive of both parents, unless a court order directs otherwise. We may also request relevant legal documentation (such as a court order or parenting agreement) and a clear agreement between parents regarding scheduling and payment before services begin.

In-Person and Virtual Assessments

Our assessments offer a blend of in-person and telehealth-based assessment services. In the majority of cases, some in person sessions are required. Our clinic is based in Ottawa, Ontario. Our clinicians are registered to work in Ontario, including with those located in Ontario. Out-of-province clients are eligible for services with us if they are able to attend a majority of sessions in person. 

Language

We assess in English only, making our assessments most suitable to those whose first language and language of comfort is English. Primarily French speaking families or those who believe their child may perform less well in English are strongly encouraged to seek services elsewhere.

Costs

Costs vary depending of the clinician's hourly rate. Working with a registered psychologist and their team of psychometrists ranges from $3500-$5000. Working with a supervised trainee ranges from $2500-$3500.