Intellectual testing is an estimate of a person’s intellectual functioning through performance on a variety of tasks designed to test a number of reasoning abilities.

These include verbal problem solving, visual problem solving, ability to solve novel problems, memory, and speed of processing information.

Intellectual assessments are often requested to provide an estimate of learning potential and identify challenges in learning. It can also be used to identify whether or not a student is gifted. It can provide information on how students approach problems and can help identify appropriate educational strategies.

Assessment tools include WPPSI (early education students), WISC (children and adolescents), and WAIS (adults).

Achievement testing is used to determine a client’s academic skill levels. This involves testing in reading, writing, math, expressive language, and receptive language.

Individuals are compared to students of the same age level in the norm group and not in relation to the school curriculum. Students are also compared to their own performance to identify strengths and weaknesses.

Tools include the WIAT, as well as a screener for expressive and receptive language.

Cognitive and academic assessments are required to determine whether or not a student has a learning disability.

Results can be used to provide recommendations for accommodations and / or teaching strategies.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is a complex diagnosis that requires a comprehensive evaluation.

ADHD is characterized by symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.

All children demonstrate these behaviours to some degree. However, individuals with ADHD have symptoms that far exceed others their age and significantly impact their ability to function. These symptoms can impact school performance, daily living, and social functioning.

There are many tools that may be used when considering a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder.

The primary features of a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder are impairment in reciprocal social interaction and restricted, repetitive patterns of behaviour, interests, or activities which have been present from early childhood (DSM-5-TR).

When considering a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder, it is important to gather information from different sources including functioning at home, at school, and in the assessment session.

In adults, part of the assessment process is gathering information about functioning in the early developmental period.

Participating in vocational counselling can help you find a vocation that will bring you a deep sense satisfaction and purpose in life, rather than feeling unhappy and trapped.

Career tests have been developed to assist high school and college students, as well as adults, with their education and career planning, by providing comprehensive and accurate assessments of the individual’s vocational and educational interests.

Vocational testing with help you save time and money, and give you peace of mind that you are on the 'right track.'

Vocational counselling includes: an intake session in which your counsellor gathers information that will assist you in designing your own educational or career pathway, a testing session in which your counsellor administers the vocational test, and a final session which includes the interpretation of your vocational test and recommendations based on the vocational testing.

A personality test is a tool used to assess human personality.

Personality assessment involves techniques designed to measure the characteristic patterns of traits.

Personality tests can be used to help clarify a clinical diagnosis, guide therapeutic interventions, and help predict how people may respond in different situations.

There are many reasons that individuals may seek out a personality assessment.

These tests can help you learn more about yourself and understand your strengths and challenges.

Personality tests can be used to gain insight into yourself or provide information if someone is questioning a diagnosis.

These assessments generally involves gathering information through observations, information provided by the client, and rating scales.

Information often has to be gathered regarding behaviour in a variety of different settings.

Questions may be answered such as the impact that inattention, impulsivity, aggressive, anxious or depressive behaviour, as well as mental health concerns has on a client’s ability to function in different settings.

Assessments can provide important information to determine appropriate diagnoses and develop a treatment plan.

Recommendations are provided to support the client, as well as possible referrals to support functioning in variety of settings.