Comprehensive psychoeducational and behaviour assessment in Perth — the complete picture of how your child learns
Some families arrive knowing exactly what they need: it may be that the school has asked for a full psychoeducational assessment to better understand your child's learning needs, a paediatrician wants cognitive and academic testing before an ADHD review, or you simply want your questions answered in one thorough process rather than piece by piece. This is that assessment.
The comprehensive psychoeducational and behavioural assessment brings together three components in one evaluation — cognitive ability (WISC-V), academic achievement (WIAT-III), and the attention, behavioural and emotional factors around them — personally conducted and analysed by psychologist Vanessa Gunton, and delivered as one report with tailored recommendations.
What a comprehensive assessment covers
Analysed together, the three strands answer the questions single tests can't. Is there a specific learning disorder such as Dyslexia, Dysgraphia or Dyscalculia? Is attention part of the picture, and does your child meet criteria for ADHD? Are there areas of weakness impacting learning such as working memory or processing difficulties? Is your child gifted as well as struggling?
What's included in the package
Every comprehensive assessment is planned around your child at a parent consultation, then conducted at our Mount Pleasant rooms.
The assessment typically includes:
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An intellectual assessment to understand cognitive strengths and weaknesses (WISC-V)
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An educational assessment of mathematics, reading, spelling and writing skills using a battery of tests including the WIAT-III
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Standardised parent and teacher rating scales covering attention and behaviour (Conners-4; BASC-3 where indicated)
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Review of developmental, medical and educational history
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Parent consultation to understand concerns, review educational history and examine the ADHD diagnostic criteria in detail
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Full scoring, analysis and integration by Vanessa personally.
What will you receive?
Following the assessment, you will receive a comprehensive written report that includes:
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Clear explanation of assessment results
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Diagnoses where criteria are met — specific learning disorders and ADHD — and identification of giftedness if relevant
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Practical recommendations for school support and adjustments
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Guidance for supporting learning at home
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Recommendations that can be shared with teachers and schools
We take care to write reports in clear, accessible language.
Who is this assessment suitable for?
The comprehensive assessment suits children and teens (roughly 6–17 years) where:
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Questions span more than one area — ability, academic skills, attention or emotional factors
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The school or a paediatrician has requested comprehensive psychological testing
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A capable child is underachieving and nobody can say why
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A previous narrow assessment answered one question but left others open
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Both learning and attention difficulties seem to be involved
Assessments are suitable for primary and secondary school-aged children.
Assessment process and timeframes
The assessment process generally involves:
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Initial parent consultation
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Assessment session with your child
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Time for scoring, interpretation and report writing
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Feedback and discussion of results and recommendations
Every child is different, so the comprehensive assessment is scoped to your child's needs — with your all-inclusive fee confirmed in writing before you book.
Some children experience overlapping learning and attention difficulties. If concerns about focus, impulsivity, or attention are also present, you may wish to read more about our ADHD assessment services.
Getting started
The next step is a conversation. Call 0434 470 381 or send an enquiry detailing your concerns and reasons for seeking an assessment. Enquiries are responded to promptly and personally by Vanessa.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my child needs a comprehensive assessment?
Children may benefit from a comprehensive assessment if they have challenges sustaining attention or often struggle with literacy and numeracy tasks, despite appropriate teaching, intervention and effort. Some children may avoid reading, become anxious about schoolwork, or tire quickly during academic tasks or assessments. If progress has been slower than expected, an assessment can help clarify why and what support may help.
What age can my child be assessed?
Comprehensive assessments are typically suitable for children from 6-7 years of age. Assessments are also appropriate for older primary and secondary school students. If you are unsure whether your child is ready, we are happy to discuss this with you.
Will the assessment include a diagnosis?
If your child meets the diagnostic criteria for a specific learning disorder or ADHD, this will be clearly outlined in the report. If criteria are not met, the assessment will still provide valuable information about learning strengths, difficulties, and recommendations to support your child at school and at home.
What happens after the assessment?
You will receive a detailed written report that explains the results. The report includes recommendations that can be shared with teachers and schools to support learning and guide adjustments. We also discuss the results with you and answer any questions you may have.
Will the assessment help with school support or adjustments?
Yes. Many schools use assessment reports to guide classroom strategies, learning support, and, where appropriate, special examination arrangements. While outcomes depend on individual school policies, the recommendations are designed to be practical and usable in educational settings.
How long does the assessment take?
The process usually involves multiple components, including an initial consultation, assessment session, scoring and interpretation, and report writing. Exact timeframes depend on the assessment required and also the age of the child. We can provide an estimate once your child’s needs are discussed.
Do I need a referral from a GP?
No — a GP referral is not required; you can enquire directly. Please note assessment fees are not eligible for Medicare rebates.
How much does the comprehensive assessment cost?
You'll receive an all-inclusive quote in writing before you book, covering the parent consultations, testing session, teacher and parent questionnaires, the full written report and your feedback session. There are no hidden extras.