ASSESSMENT FAQs
Everything You Need to Know
Choosing an assessment can bring up a lot of questions. Here you'll find answers to some of the questions I hear most often. If you don't see yours, I'm happy to help.
QUICK ANSWERS
Common Questions
Do I need a referral?
No. You can contact Blue Spruce Psychology directly to begin the process.
What ages do you assess?
Assessments are available for children (as young as 4 years old), teens, post-secondary students, and adults.
How long is an assessment?
Most assessments are completed over several appointments. The number of visits varies depending on the type of assessment.
When will I receive the report?
Most reports are ready within two weeks. Gifted Assessment reports are typically ready within 3 business days.
Can the school use the report?
Yes. Reports can be shared with schools to help inform supports, accommodations, and educational planning.
What if my child is nervous?
I work at your child’s pace, with breaks and flexibility as needed to help them feel comfortable and supported.
Can I Book An Assessment Online?
Assessments are scheduled directly with Kendra rather than through an online calendar. Complete the contact form or email me at kendra@bluesprucepsychology.ca, and I’ll follow up within 1–2 business days to discuss your needs and coordinate appointment times.
Do You Offer Direct Billing?
Yes! Direct billing is available for many extended health insurance plans, including Canada Life, Desjardins, Industrial Alliance, and Sun Life. Because coverage differs between policies, please contact your insurer to confirm:
(1) Whether psychological assessment services are covered
(2) Your daily and annual coverage limit
(3) Whether a physician’s referral is required
(4) Whether there are any restrictions on assessment-related services
When possible, eligible fees can be submitted directly to your insurer. Any remaining balance can sometimes be billed to a secondary plan or paid via credit card for reimbursement.
DETAILS AND STEPS
The Assessment Process
Every assessment is individualized, but the process generally follows four key steps.
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The process starts with a conversation about the concerns, strengths, history, and questions that brought you here. From there, I'll plan an assessment based on what needs to be explored.
• Gifted Assessment — 30 minutes
• ADHD & Psychoeducational Assessments — 60 minutes -
Assessment sessions typically involve a series of one-on-one tasks selected to evaluate the areas relevant to the referral question. Breaks and flexibility are built in as needed.
• Gifted Assessment — 2 hours, one visit
• ADHD Assessment — 4 hours, two visits
• Psychoeducational Assessment — 6 hours, three visits -
I'll walk you through the results in clear, everyday language. You'll have time to ask questions, discuss recommendations, and understand what the findings mean in everyday life.
• Gifted Assessment — 30 minutes
• ADHD & Psychoeducational Assessments — 60 minutes -
You'll receive a comprehensive written report summarizing the results and individualized recommendations.
Reports can be shared with schools, healthcare providers, post-secondary institutions, and other professionals when appropriate.
UNDERSTANDING THE RESULTS
How an Assessment Can Help
Assessment results can inform diagnosis, educational planning, accommodations, and recommendations for support.
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A comprehensive Psychoeducational Assessment can help determine whether a learning disability is contributing to difficulties with reading, writing, or mathematics, while also clarifying learning strengths and areas where support may be helpful.
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When diagnostic criteria are met, an ADHD Assessment can provide a formal diagnosis. It also considers other factors that may be affecting attention, learning, behaviour, or daily functioning.
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A Gifted Assessment evaluates cognitive abilities and patterns of intellectual strengths, including whether results meet criteria for gifted identification. Findings can also help guide educational planning and support for advanced learning.
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An assessment can identify appropriate accommodations and may support eligibility for school coding or services. Decisions about implementation are ultimately made by the school.
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Colleges and universities may require current documentation when reviewing accommodation requests. When appropriate, an assessment report can provide documentation and recommendations to support that process.
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Yes. If more than one family member is wondering about ADHD, mention this in your initial inquiry.
Each person would have a separate assessment tailored to their own history, experiences, and questions, but I can help you consider how best to organize the timing and process.
Still Have Questions?
You don't need to have all the answers before reaching out. If you're unsure where to begin, I'm happy to talk through your questions and help determine whether an assessment is the right fit.
Start Here.