FAQ

Parents often ask if there are any preparations that are required prior to bringing their child in for an assessment. Intellectual ability is an innate characteristic and as such, is determined at birth. Therefore, preparation is not required. Several websites, such as “testing mom” advocate preparation for intelligence tests; however, these are typically ineffective and come at a significant cost. The best preparation for an appointment is to ensure that the child/teen/adult is well-rested, has had a good breakfast, and is not ill.

Understandably, there can be considerable anxiety when considering an assessment. Parents may be unsure of what to expect, and clients may be apprehensive about test demands. The initial intake appointment, which is only held with the parents or adult client, outlines the assessment process, and what to expect, and is an opportunity for all parties to discuss concerns and goals. A clinical interview is held to gather background information so that an assessment plan can be made. This typically takes between one to one-and-a-half hours. Subsequent appointments, typically around two hours in length, are spent completing the assessment. The length of assessment sessions is generally based on the client’s age and attention span. At times, shorter sessions are required for younger children or those who cannot work for two hours. A considerable amount of time is spent establishing and maintaining rapport to ensure optimal engagement and reduced anxiety and stress. Upon completion of the assessment, the file is scored and the results interpreted. They are compiled in a comprehensive report which includes recommendations and strategies. These findings are presented to the parents and/or adult client in a one to one-and-a-half hour interview. Should additional information come to light during this final meeting, amendments are made to the report.

My office is located at Suite 115, 1925 18 Avenue NE Calgary. If attending during business hours, please check in with the receptionist, and she will let me know that you have arrived. If after hours or on Saturday, please have a seat in reception, and I will meet you there. Please note that the main doors open at 9:00 AM on Saturday mornings and lock automatically at 4:00 PM. If arriving before or after these times, please text me at 403-612-3396 and I will come down to let you into the building.

Please note that I charge a flat rate for all services. Payment, at $220.00 per hour, is billed at the end of each session and in the case of Westmount Charter School and GATE assessments, due in installments. Payment can be made by cash, email, Interac transfer, Visa, or MasterCard. Unfortunately, I am unable to accept cheques. I will provide you with an invoice that you can submit to your insurance company for reimbursement. I also offer direct billing to a variety of private insurance plans for customers. Please note that Sunlife and Manulife do not currently offer direct billing.

Please note that the offices are peanut and tree nut-free due to the allergies of many clients. We respectfully request that you reschedule your appointment (without additional charge) to ensure an optimal assessment environment and accurate results if your child is ill.

We would appreciate 24 hours’ notice if you need to change your scheduled appointment time. There is a half-hour charge for no-show appointments.