Your questions answered - Finding a psychologist

Our series of Questions and Answers on learning disabilities prompted a question from a parent about how to find a good psychologist to do a pscyho-educational assessment, and what questions to ask.  A good "psych ed" is a critical tool in diagnosing learning disabilities, and the first step in developing a plan for learning.  

Once again, Dr. Erica Baker has offered her expertise.  Keep those questions coming!

Rhonda


Psychological assessments are most often conducted through schools, hospital settings or private practice.

School psychologists provide assessments in academic environments.

Information about psychological services offered through hospital settings is often available on the hospital website under a Psychology heading.

The Association of Psychologists of Nova Scotia website (www.apns.ca) has a Find a Psychologist section that provides information about psychologists in private practice and the nature of their practice, including areas of interest or practice.

To arrange an assessment through a private practice, the parent typically contacts the practice directly. It is important that the parent feels comfortable and confident in the Psychologist and in the services that will be provided for the child.

Questions to ask:
1) What does an assessment entail? What areas of functioning does the assessment investigate?
2) Do you have particular areas of specialty (e.g., Learning Disabilities, non-verbal learning disorder, ADHD)?
2) How much is the assessment and what is included in that price?
3) If the assessment identifies learning challenges, will there be recommendations provided?
4) What differentiates your practice from others?

NOTE: Here's my tip of the day on having an assessment done by a psychologist in private practice.  It can be expensive, but if you have private health insurance, either through your employer or otherwise, at least some of the cost may be covered under psychological services.