PATOSS Professional Member
Dyslexia Diagnosis / Full SpLD Assessment
A comprehensive assessment to understand your individual pattern of strengths and difficulties, and what can help.
No two people learn in exactly the same way, so no two assessments should feel exactly the same. I tailor the assessment to you, taking time beforehand to understand your concerns, experiences and the questions you would like the assessment to answer.
During the assessment, I look beyond individual test scores and consider how the different pieces of the picture fit together. Where relevant, this may include exploring literacy, memory, processing, attention and aspects of maths, alongside the wider information you share with me.
From your first enquiry through to the assessment, feedback and report, you'll deal directly with me. I'll listen carefully to your concerns and to anything that emerges during the assessment itself. Wherever possible, I'll talk you through my initial impressions at the end of our appointment, so you aren't simply sent away to wait for a report.
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It should be a nice experience
It's really important to make the experience as comfortable and reassuring as possible.
Many people feel a little nervous about an assessment. We need to create a calm and supportive environment where you (or your child) can feel at ease.
We can go at whatever pace works best and have breaks. I have decades of experience working with young children, students, and adults of all ages.
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Is it Official?
As a certified SpLD assessor registered with PATOSS, the report remains valid for life, even if the assessment is conducted during school age. Therefore, it's recommended to undergo assessment as early as possible to ensure timely support and accommodations.
Thorough Assessments
To avoid repeated assessments and be as accurate as possible, it can be important to look for a wide range of SpLDs and other possible issues in the same assesment, amongst other things. This allows consideration of other (possibly hidden) factors and how these may be working together.
These conditions can often seem similar, and it's quite common to identify multiple SpLDs in varying degrees. In fact it was once said that this is '...the rule rather than the exception' (Maggie Snowling).
Your report, and what happens next
You'll receive a thorough, high-quality diagnostic report meeting current SASC standards, usually within one week of your assessment.
More importantly, I want the report to be useful. I'll explain what I've found in straightforward language and provide clear, practical recommendations based on your individual needs and circumstances.
Whether the assessment is for a child at school, a young person moving into further or higher education, or an adult in the workplace, I take a lifelong view of what the findings mean and what may help.
And the report doesn't have to be the end of the conversation. I'm happy to provide further consultation afterwards if you have questions or would like help thinking through the next steps.