Q. Do I need a referral from a doctor to get an assessment?

A. No, it is not necessary to have a medical doctor refer you to our services. Many of our clients are referred through agencies, although many are self-referred as well.

Q. How much does an assessment cost?

A. Our assessments are individually tailored to meet each client’s specific needs, and as a result, our pricing is designed to accurately reflect this personalized approach. When discussing an assessment with a potential client, we will provide an estimate or price range depending on the needs of the individual, to help with planning and decision-making.

Q. What type of assessments are available?

A. We complete a variety of assessments on a range of people, including (but not limited to) autism spectrum disorder on children and youth up to 19 years old, learning disorders, intellectual developmental disorder, fetal alcohol spectrum disorder, adaptive functioning, vocational assessments, and other mental health conditions (e.g., mood, anxiety, adjustment and somatoform disorders, ADHD).

Q. Are you able to complete an autism assessment on children under 6 years of age?

A. Yes. There is substantial research that suggests early intervention is more likely to have major long-term positive effects on symptoms and later skill development. Early interventions not only give children the best start possible, but also the best chance of developing to their full potential. Subsequently, if you feel your young child may have an autism spectrum disorder, it is important to seek early assessment. In some cases, assessments can be completed on children under 2 years of age. Please note that provincial guidelines for the assessment of autism stipulate that children under 6 years of age must be seen by a pediatrician and speech and language pathology as well.

Q. Is there funding available for assessments?

A. Our clients have received funding through various agencies, including Variety Club, Jordan’s Principle, independent and/or online schools, and individual indigenous organizations. As well, our services are eligible for reimbursement by many insurance policies. Please consult your insurance provider for more information.

Q. What are the current waitlist times?

A. Our waitlist times vary throughout the year, and depend on the type of assessment. Please consult our office for more information, via phone call or email. If you have a specific deadline (e.g., a youth aging out into adulthood), please share that information when discussing the referral with our office.

Q. Do you complete assessments for more than one issue? For example, looking at Autism and ADHD?

A. Yes. Many mental health concerns are over-lapping, and certain disorders can present similar to other disorders. We strive to complete thorough assessments to gain a comprehensive understanding of our clients, which may take into account their mood, cognitive and/or learning profile, and behavioural concerns, as needed.

Q. I am not located in Kamloops. Is it possible to do a remote or virtual assessment?

A. Yes, in some circumstances we are able to conduct assessments virtually, over video, although there are additional requirements involved (e.g., high speed internet). Please contact our office to discuss if a virtual assessment is an appropriate fit. At this time, autism assessments are not able to be completed remotely, and must be done in person, given the nature of the assessment tools.

Q. How long does an appointment take? Will there be multiple sessions?

A. Typically we schedule an assessment for a half day or a full day, depending on the nature of the assessment. We attempt to complete all testing in one day for consistency and convenience for our clients and their families.

Q. Do you offer treatment services, such as therapy or behaviour intervention?

A. No, unfortunately at this time our office is only able to offer assessment services.