The initial consultation lasts 60 minutes and explores current concerns, including any mental health difficulties. The initial consultation is conducted mostly with the parents, with the child attending briefly. We will then make a recommendation regarding the next steps.
Information is collected relating to educational development and literacy skills. Relevant questionnaires may also be sent. If completing the assessment remotely, some paperwork or other materials may be sent in advance.
The cognitive assessment will be conducted by one clinician. The assessment may be done remotely or in person, or a combination of both. The young person will need to complete a series of puzzles and tasks and answer some questions.
The most commonly used tests are the Wechsler Intelligence Scales for children and adults. These look at areas such as memory, visual reasoning, verbal reasoning and processing speed. Additional tests may be administered to look at particular areas in more detail.
These tests generate many different scores, including IQ scores.
After the assessment, the clinician will look at the results and provide feedback either immediately or in a follow-up appointment. The results, and recommendations from what we have found out, will be included in the final report.