Psychology (Assessment Portfolio)
Psychological assessment is a process of assessing and evaluating an individual using a combination of formal (standardised) and informal (qualitative) assessment measures. This process is a starting point in terms of identifying an individual’s strengths and weaknesses and allows for the development of a treatment plan or suitable intervention based on the individual’s unique functioning. Furthermore, this process allows psychologists to provide holistic support by working collaboratively with parents, teachers and other significant role players.
Psychological assessments are unique to each individual’s context however, the process is usually as follows:
- Intake interview with parents/caregivers to gather background information on the client and discuss the assessment process going forward. Information from previous interventions may be requested to gain a richer understanding of the individual’s development. If need be, a school observation is scheduled where the psychologist discreetly observes the child in the school context (prior to the assessment).
- Depending on the individual, the assessment is scheduled and may take place over several sessions or over the course of a morning. Additional information may be gathered from teachers or other role players and integrated to create a comprehensive picture of the individual’s functioning.
- A feedback session is then scheduled (usually about 2 weeks from the assessment date) to discuss the assessment results and relevant recommendations.
- School meetings and feedback sessions may also be scheduled, if needed.
- Assessments are inclusive of a written comprehensive assessment report explaining the assessment results as well as recommendations.
The following psychological assessments are offered:
- Language- or learning difficulties [Psycho-Educational Assessment]
- School readiness and developmental stage assessments
- IEB & DBE Concession Assessments [Examination concessions (e.g. spelling, extra time etc) or Concessions for alternative possibilities (use of device, assistance of a scribe)]
- Behavioural difficulties (ADHD, deviant behaviour)
- Emotional difficulties (e.g. anxiety, depression)
- Cognitive Assessments
- Career Guidance Assessments
- Subject Choice Assessments
