Psycho-Educational Assessments
Understanding how someone learns, thinks, and functions in academic settings.
What is a Psycho-Educational Assessment?
Psycho-educational assessments provide a detailed understanding of how someone learns — including cognitive ability, academic skills, and information processing.
They are commonly used to identify learning strengths and challenges, support school planning, and provide clarity around academic performance and functioning.
These assessments are typically completed for children and adolescents (Kindergarten through Grade 12), and in some cases, adults.
When a Psycho-Educational Might be Helpful.
You might consider an assessment if there are concerns about:
academic performance or learning difficulties
attention, focus, or processing speed
reading, writing, or math skills
school-related stress or frustration
unclear strengths or inconsistent performance
applications to schools requiring formal assessment
What is Included?
A psychoeducational assessment typically includes:
cognitive testing (how someone thinks and processes information)
academic testing (reading, writing, math)
behavioural and social-emotional screening (when relevant)
background history and interview
a comprehensive written report
Diagnostic clarification and recommendations
What This Assessment Can Help With?
Learning Disabilities
A psychoeducational assessment can identify learning disorders in areas such as reading, writing, and math.
It helps clarify why a student may be struggling academically and provides recommendations for support, accommodations, and educational planning.
Giftedness & School Admissions
Giftedness is identified when a child demonstrates significantly advanced cognitive ability, typically reflected in a Full Scale IQ (FSIQ) or General Ability Index (GAI) score in the high range (approximately 130 and above).
Some private schools in Calgary, including Rundle Academy, Webber Academy, Calgary Academy, and Foothills Academy, may require a psychoeducational assessment as part of the admissions process.
Assessment results can help determine eligibility for specialized programs and provide a clearer understanding of a child’s learning profile — including both strengths and areas where support may still be needed.
Cognitive Assessment
A cognitive assessment evaluates how someone thinks and processes information — including reasoning, memory, attention, and processing speed.
It helps identify cognitive strengths and challenges, and how these impact learning, problem-solving, and day-to-day functioning. In some cases, nonverbal measures may be used when language is a barrier or not the primary focus of the assessment.
Assessments for individuals with English-As-A-Second-Language
In some cases, language can impact the accuracy of testing.
*We are able to use nonverbal measures to assess cognitive functioning in a way that minimizes reliance on language. This allows for a more accurate understanding of ability when English is not the individual’s first language.
Start with a Consultation
We offer a complimentary consultation to help you determine what type of assessment is best for you.
What the Process Looks Like:
Initial consultation
We gather background information and determine whether a psychoeducational assessment is appropriate.Testing sessions
Testing is completed over several hours, typically across one or more appointments.Scoring and interpretation
Results are carefully reviewed and analyzed.Feedback session
You receive a detailed explanation of results and recommendations.
Time Commitment.
Psychoeducational assessments are completed over multiple sessions and typically involve approximately 8–10 hours of total assessment time, in addition to scoring and feedback.
What is the Cost?
Psychoeducational assessments typically range from:
$2100 – $2600
FAQ
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How long does a psychoeducational assessment take?
Around 7 hours of testing, along with scoring and a feedback session. They are completed over multiple steps, not in a single appointment.
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Can this be done in one session?
No. A proper psychoeducational assessment requires time to complete testing and interpret results accurately.
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Will this help with school accommodations?
Yes. Assessments often provide documentation and recommendations that can support accommodations or planning within school settings.
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Can adults complete a psychoeducational assessment?
Yes. While commonly completed for children and adolescents, psychoeducational assessments can also be helpful for adults seeking clarity around learning, attention, or academic history.
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Does a psychoeducational assessment include ADHD testing?
A psychoeducational assessment may include screening for attention and executive functioning, but it does not always result in a formal ADHD diagnosis. If ADHD is a primary concern, additional or more focused assessment may be recommended.
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Can this assessment identify a learning disability?
Yes. Psychoeducational assessments are specifically designed to assess for learning disorders in areas such as reading, writing, and math, and to understand how cognitive abilities relate to academic performance.