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Frequently Asked Questions

Does Clarity Assessment Services Ltd. provide counselling or treatment services?

 

No.  Our specialty is childhood assessment.  We only offer services that are consistent with our training and experiences.

 

Why do some people call it a Learning Disability, and others call it a Learning Disorder?

 

"Learning Disability" is the term and definition used by the Learning Disabilities Association of Canada (LDAC)  It's also the term used within Alberta Education.  "Specific Learning Disorder" is the diagnostic term used in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM-5), which is the diagnostic tool Psychologist's use in their practice.  The criteria is somewhat different between the two definitions.

 

Does my child need a Psychoeducational Assessment?

 

This is the question we'll try to help you answer during our first consultation. If we don't feel that a psychoeducational assessment is going to address your concerns, or if it sounds like another service is more appropriate to start with, we'll tell you.  Our goal is to provide assessments to address the needs of you and your child.  If our service won't help address that need, we'll help you find what will. 

 

What are the advantages and disadvantages of an Assessment?

 

The advantages of assessment include identifying the factors impacting your child's learning, both strengths and areas of need.  The assessment results may lead to more tailored interventions in the classroom, and greater insight into how your child processes information.  The disadvantages include the possibility that your child will be identified with a specific disability; however, that can also be an advantage depending on the services you can access in the community as a result of that diagnostic opinion.  These considerations will be discussed with you in detail before proceeding with any assessment of your child.

 

How long does an assessment take?

 

How long an assessment takes will depend upon the referral question, and the degree of thoroughness required.  For example, a fairly straight forward assessment for a Learning Disability or Giftedness might take 9 - 12 hours of clinical time.  An assessment for ADHD, which should be done within the context of a psychoeducational assessment, may take 12-16 hours of clinical time.   Our initial consultation will help determine the primary referral question, and an estimate of the time necessary to meet your inquiry will be provided. 

 

How much does a Psychoeducational Assessment cost?  Is Assessment covered by my employers benefits plan?

 

Some extended benefits plans cover a portion of psychological services.  Check with your benefits provider to determine what services are covered, if there is a maximum coverage, and how to go about claiming coverage.  You would be responsible for any remaining charges that are not covered by your benefits plan.  We charge the rate recommended by the Psychologists' Association of Alberta

 

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