Understanding Reading and Dyslexia Assessment
Reading is a complex process for students. When they experience challenges with reading, it can impact their performance in all academic areas. It is particularly important for a child to develop independent reading skills by the time they reach the end of the third grade.
In order to gain a better understanding of a student’s journey to becoming a reader, a cognitive and detailed reading assessment can provide information to support programming and learning. A diagnostic reading assessment can determine the developmental reading skills that a student has already mastered and the skills they need to continue to develop in order to become a successful learner. A comprehensive reading assessment can be particularly important for students who are not responding to interventions that have been provided at home and at school.
A detailed reading assessment can be used to pinpoint if a student’s challenges are due to:
- verbal processing
- background knowledge
- phonological awareness
- comprehension
- fluency
- vocabulary
It is important to note that early intervention provides the best opportunity for success for students who are struggling with reading. Prior to a comprehensive reading assessment, it is recommended that a student has their vision and hearing checked to rule out any roadblocks that may be factors in their learning.
Our reading specialist, Rhonda Wizniak, is also available for follow-up sessions to support parents in helping their child acquire the fundamental skills needed to be a successful reader.
What’s Included in Every Psychological Assessment
Psychological assessments are a significant investment, and we believe in being transparent about what that investment includes. Each assessment is a comprehensive clinical service, not just testing time.
Intake & Background Review
A detailed clinical interview and review of relevant developmental, academic, medical, and psychosocial history. Rating scales and collateral information may be gathered when appropriate.
Comprehensive Assessment Sessions
Standardized, evidence-based testing tailored to the referral question and individual needs. Sessions are paced to ensure comfort, accuracy, and valid results.
Clinical Scoring & Interpretation
Extensive scoring, interpretation, and integration of test data using clinical expertise and current diagnostic standards.
Feedback Session
A one-on-one feedback appointment, offered either in person or virtually, to review results, explain findings in clear language, and answer questions.
Comprehensive Written Report
A detailed report outlining results, diagnostic conclusions (when applicable), and individualized recommendations. Reports are suitable for schools, physicians, workplaces, and funding applications.
Personalized Toolbox & Recommendations
Practical strategies, accommodations, and resources tailored to the individual or family to support next steps.
Supplementary Letters & Applications (As Needed)
After your assessment is complete, additional support is sometimes needed in the form of letters or applications. Common examples include Disability Tax Credit applications, summary support letters for school accommodations, and other documentation that requires input from a registered psychologist. These are offered as needed, billed in addition to the assessment fee, and discussed and agreed upon with you in advance.
Our Assessment Team
Rhonda is a Registered Psychologist who has been providing assessment and consultation services to children, adolescents and adults since 2007. She holds doctoral and master’s degrees from the University of Alberta focusing in educational psychology, along with a bachelor’s degree with distinction in Education with a focus in early childhood education.
Rhonda’s path into psychology began as a kindergarten teacher in a rural setting, where she became intrigued with learning more about the diverse learning, emotional, and behavioural needs of the students she was working with. Her assessments now help families understand questions like whether a child has a learning disability, requires specialized learning supports, [or] is impacted by anxiety.
Kira is a Registered Psychologist with a wide variety of education and experience working with children, teens, families, adults, and couples. She is an experienced psychologist building her competence in formal psychological assessment under Dr. Wizniak’s supervision.
Kira practice[s] from a person-centred viewpoint, believing that a good relationship between a client and [psychologist] is essential throughout the work. She brings the same warmth and careful attention into the assessment process — listening for each client’s story alongside the standardized findings.
Brittany has over 10 years of experience in the field of psychology, with specialized training in psychological assessment. As a psychometrist on the assessment team, she administers and scores standardized psychological and psychoeducational measures under the supervision of a registered psychologist. Brittany approaches assessment with careful attention to detail, professionalism, and respect for each individual’s unique story. She values the role that clear, accurate assessment can play in helping clients and families better understand strengths, challenges, and next steps.
Rates
Please inquire for rates for specific assessments. Note that these services are offered by a Registered Psychologist and may be covered in full or part, by some insurance plans. Please check with your provider. We do not bill third parties, but will provide a receipt or submission and reimbursement.
Cancellation policy
A credit card is required to confirm your booking. Fifty percent (50%) of the assessment fee is charged at intake. If you cancel between booking and 48 hours prior to the assessment, this payment will be refunded minus a $200 cancellation fee. The remaining 50% is charged two business days before the assessment. Within 48 hours of the appointment, assessments may be rescheduled due to illness or serious unforeseen circumstances; however, no refunds are provided for cancellations.
Frequently Asked Questions About Assessments
Reach out by phone, text, or email and our client care team will set up a consultation call. We’ll talk through what’s bringing you in, what kind of assessment might be the right fit, and what the process looks like from there.
Yes. Our assessment team works with children, adolescents, and adults. The specific tools and process vary by age, but the overall structure — intake, testing, scoring and interpretation, feedback session, written report — is consistent.
Typically a few weeks from intake to final report. Timing depends on scheduling testing sessions, gathering input from other sources (like teachers or doctors), and report writing. You’ll get a realistic timeline at intake.
Only with your written consent. The report is yours — you control who sees it and when. Many families choose to share the report with schools to support an IPP (Individualized Program Plan) or accommodations, or with a doctor for coordinated care, but those decisions are yours.
Yes. A comprehensive psychological assessment provides the formal documentation schools and workplaces typically need to consider accommodations. The report includes specific recommendations suited to those settings.
Common starting place. The consultation call is designed to help you figure that out. Sometimes what someone initially comes in for is part of a larger picture, and we’ll help you think through what would actually be most useful.
Coverage varies by plan. Our assessments are conducted by a Registered Psychologist and may be covered in full or in part by some insurance plans. We don’t bill third parties directly, but we provide a receipt for submission and reimbursement. We recommend checking with your provider about what’s covered before booking.
Explore Our Assessment Services
We offer a range of specialized psychological assessments. Select the area that best fits your concerns to learn more about the process, fees, and what to expect.
Adult ADHD Evaluations
Comprehensive assessment of attention, executive functioning, and related concerns in adulthood.
Child & Adolescent ADHD Assessments
Evaluation of attention, impulse control, and learning impact across home and school settings.
Autism Spectrum Assessments (Children & Adults)
In-depth assessment of social communication, sensory processing, and behavioural patterns.
Gifted Child / Cognitive (IQ) Assessments
Identification of advanced cognitive abilities and learning profiles.
Dyslexia & Reading Assessments
Detailed evaluation of reading, phonological processing, fluency, and comprehension.
Personality Assessments
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Psycho-Educational / Learning Disability Assessments
Assessment of learning strengths and challenges to support academic planning and accommodations.
Social, Emotional & Behavioural Assessments
Evaluation of emotional functioning, behaviour patterns, and social development.
RCMP Psychological Assessment for Applicants
We offer the personality assessment (MMPI) required as part of the RCMP’s Psychological Suitability Screening.