Some Frequently Asked Questions:

How do I know you can help me/my child?

Clinical psychologists use evidence-based assessments and treatments based on up-to-date scientific investigations, national and  international guidelines and best clinical practice.  However, we can’t help every child.  This is why we have a free telephone consult initially, to try and ensure we only see those most likely to benefit.

Where do you do the assessments?

Our priority is the comfort of you and/or your child. We travel all over the UK to see clients at a mutually agreed time.

We therefore see people in many different settings – our offices, clinics, hospitals, homes, schools or out and about in their community. This is because some assessments need to be done somewhere quiet and undisturbed, while others need to be done in the child’s natural environment, where they feel most safe and comfortable.

What does assessing me/my child involve?

Assessments are most often a combination of school-like tests, games and puzzles. Most children enjoy these assessments. We will also use observations, interviews, questionnaires and discussions with others who know the child or young person, like their teacher. The precise mix of these methods will depend on what we are investigating.

Do I get any feedback about my child’s results?

We will always discuss our findings with those who have requested the assessment. The method of doing so depends on each clients needs.  We can feedback a during an arranged meeting, by telephone, or in writing.  We do not feedback by email. We also provide, if required, written reports schools and any other professionals involved in the individual’s care.

Will you contact my child's school to discuss your assessment?

All consultations and assessments are confidential. If you would like us to discuss the assessment with your child’s school we are always happy to do that, but would require parents’ written permission.

A testimonial:

‘Thanks for sending the report to the school... The school called me immediately to discuss how they could help.  The guidance teacher had never heard of dysgraphia before. Thanks to your recommendations, they have provided him with a computer for classes with a lot of writing, and have arranged extra time for exams.  He is so much happier!’
Parent of J, assessed and diagnosed with Dysgraphia, April 2010.

Will we need a reassessment at any point?

As children develop, the impact of different cognitive difficulties can change, and an injury in early life can result in problems emerging later in development. We therefore offer long-term monitoring and follow-up throughout an individual's development.

Can you help me access other services?

We strongly believe that using local services to support your child’s education and health is ideal. However, we are aware that sometimes local services are very stretched and may be unable to complete detailed assessments or provide all aspects of care. We aim to liaise closely with local services to assist them in providing optimal levels of support whenever possible.

If something is wrong, can you refer me to another service?

Yes, if we are aware that there is a local service able to provide support we would make a referral, and we would offer liaison with the local service to reduce the likelihood of assessments being repeated unnecessarily.