Assessments for
Teenagers
You want the best for your teenager. I can help them discover the learning approach that best suits them and build upon their strengths.
Why Might a Teenager Need an Assessment?
People get assessed for many different reasons, all good.
- A recommendation From a Teacher or Parent
- The person is Recognising an Issue Themselves
- The Person is Struggling to Keep Up At Work.
These difficulties can affect confidence, motivation, emotional wellbeing and school experience over time.
An assessment aims to explore both strengths and areas of difficulty in a respectful, supportive and age-appropriate manner. It is not about “labelling” a young person, but about understanding how they learn best and identifying supports that may help them reach their potential.
Additional Screening Measures
Alongside the educational assessment, additional screening measures may be completed where appropriate.
Beyond standard learning profiles, I offer specialised screenings to evaluate specific areas.
- Attention and concentration difficulties associated with ADHD
- Social communication and interaction skills using the Social Responsiveness Scale
- Emotional and behavioural wellbeing.
This focused approach allows us to see the whole picture without over-testing, giving you immediate clarity on whether to implement targeted home and school accommodations or to proceed with a more comprehensive multi-disciplinary assessment.
My Process & How I work
To get the absolute most out of this process, I strongly recommend that parents take the time to read the below.
1. The Prep Phase
Pre-Consultation Questionnaire
Parents are asked to complete a detailed background questionnaire and consent forms in advance of the appointment.
With consent, it is also helpful for a subject teacher, year head or learning support teacher to complete a brief questionnaire regarding the young person’s experience in school. While this is not compulsory, it often provides valuable additional context.
Preparing Your Teenager
I often explain that my role is a little like being a “learning detective” - working together with them to better understand their strengths, challenges and learning style. There are no “pass” or “fail” outcomes, and many young people find the process far less stressful than they expected.
A calm evening beforehand, along with good sleep and a relaxed start to the morning, will help the young person feel more settled.
2. The Assessment
What happens During the Assessment?
The assessment itself involves a combination of discussion, problem-solving tasks and academic activities relating to areas such as reading, writing, spelling, comprehension, processing speed, memory and Maths.
The process is designed to feel conversational, collaborative and supportive rather than like an “exam”.
Consent and Collaboration
While parents may initiate the referral, the young person themselves is always invited to give informed consent once the assessment process has been explained in an age-appropriate and transparent way.
Teenagers are encouraged to ask questions, express concerns and take an active role in understanding why the assessment is taking place.
3. Feedback & Report
The Report
A draft report is typically provided within approximately 2–3 weeks of assessment and payment of fees. Following review and agreement with parents, a final report is issued which may then be shared with the school or other relevant professionals if desired.
Where appropriate, assessment findings may also help support applications for Reasonable Accommodations at the Certificate Examinations (RACE) and/or the Disability Access Route to Education (DARE) for third-level entry.
Feedback
Feedback is provided following the assessment, with an opportunity to discuss findings, recommendations and any questions arising.
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My Process & How I work
To get the absolute most out of this process, I strongly recommend that parents take the time to read the below.
1. The Prep Phase
Pre-Consultation Questionnaire
Parents are asked to complete a detailed background questionnaire and consent forms in advance of the appointment.
With consent, it is also helpful for a subject teacher, year head or learning support teacher to complete a brief questionnaire regarding the young person’s experience in school. While this is not compulsory, it often provides valuable additional context.
Preparing Your Teenager
I often explain that my role is a little like being a “learning detective” - working together with them to better understand their strengths, challenges and learning style. There are no “pass” or “fail” outcomes, and many young people find the process far less stressful than they expected.
A calm evening beforehand, along with good sleep and a relaxed start to the morning, will help the young person feel more settled.
2. The Assessment
What happens During the Assessment?
The assessment itself involves a combination of discussion, problem-solving tasks and academic activities relating to areas such as reading, writing, spelling, comprehension, processing speed, memory and Maths.The process is designed to feel conversational, collaborative and supportive rather than like an “exam”.
Note: Consent and Collaboration
While parents may initiate the referral, the young person themselves is always invited to give informed consent once the assessment process has been explained in an age-appropriate and transparent way.Teenagers are encouraged to ask questions, express concerns and take an active role in understanding why the assessment is taking place.
3. Report & Feedback
The Report
A draft report is typically provided within approximately 2–3 weeks of assessment and payment of fees. Following review and agreement with parents, a final report is issued which may then be shared with the school or other relevant professionals if desired.
While parents may initiate the referral, the young person themselves is always invited to give informed consent once the assessment process has been explained in an age-appropriate and transparent way.Teenagers are encouraged to ask questions, express concerns and take an active role in understanding why the assessment is taking place.
Feedback
Feedback is provided following the assessment, with an opportunity to discuss findings, recommendations and any questions arising.Lorem ipsum is the standard placeholder text used in publishing and web design. Lorem ipsum is the standard placeholder text used in publishing and web design.
Frequently Asked Questions
Pre-visit CHECKLIST
Have had a good nights sleep the night before
Eat beforehand, don't be hungry!
Wear comfortable clothes if possible
Arrive 5 minutes early so that you are not rushing.
How Long is the assessment?
Assessment appts take 2 hours. This includes a welcome and time to settle in, approximately a 90 minute assessment and 30 mins feedback.
Cost of Assessments
Cost of assessments are shared via email during the booking process.
Accreditation
I am an accredited Chartered Psychologist with The Psychological Society of Ireland (PSI) and an Accredited Integrative Psychotherapist with the Irish Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (IACP), and Accredited EMDR therapist with EMDR All Ireland.
Cancellation Policy
I understand that life can be unpredictable and plans sometimes need to change. If you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment, I ask for at least 48 hours' notice.
The reason for this is that I have a waiting list and with 48 hours notice I can fit another client in, I'm sure you will appreciate this.
Confidentiality
All consultations, assessments, and session records are strictly confidential and protected by professional standards. Because educational psychology often involves supporting a child's learning environment, we may discuss sharing specific insights or strategies with teachers or schools - but this is only done with your explicit knowledge and written consent.
A comprehensive report is written to reflect the findings and recommendations, It is at the discretion of the parents/individual to choose with whom they share the report. I do not directly send the report to anyone else.
Are your reports accepted by the Department of Education / HSE?
The tests used are the approved and up-to-date tests. Report findings are recognised by the Department of Education and HSE, but often additional screenings/scores are required in the school setting also.
The reports help inform supports, not dictate them.
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