sld assessment package

A Specific Learning Disorder (SLD) assessment clarifies diagnosis of an SLD in reading (dyslexia), written expression (dysgraphia) or math (dyscalculia). An SLD assessment with a suitably trained and experienced psychologist provides clarity around diagnosis.  Our assessment package assists in diagnosis based on DSM 5tr criteria.

A SLD assessment is not recommended until intensive interventions have been completed.  Intensive interventions provide an chance to establish ongoing learning concerns, following an opportunity for the young person to be provided with intensive support.  Intensive intervention is not necessary for adult referrals and is considered for adolescent referrals.

Any past reports and school reports will be requested. An extensive review of prior assessment, developmental and academic history will be undertaken.

  • Cognitive assessment using the WISC V or WAIS IV – 2 hours

    Cognitive assessments help to determine an individual’s learning capabilities by identifying cognitive strengths and weaknesses with the development of individualised support and learning plans.  They are used to assist in the identification of various neurodevelopmental and learning differences such as intellectual delays, giftedness, specific learning disorders, autism and ADHD.

    The cognitive assessment used is the WISC V for children aged 6 years 0 months to 16 years 11 months or the WAIS IV for adolescents and adults aged 16 years to 90 years, 11 months.  

  • Parent interview - 1 hour

    Interview to collect extensive developmental history, background information and learning history.

  • Additional assessments using the Wide Range Assessment of Memory and Learning 3rd Edition (WRAML3) + Test of Auditory Processing Skills (TAPS-4) – 2 hours

    WRAML3 measures short and long-term memory and the ability to learn new material in children and adults and provides information about the possible impact of memory on learning.

    The TAPS-4 assesses skills across three intersecting areas: phonological processing, auditory memory and listening comprehension. These areas underpin the development of effective listening and communication skills and are critical to the development of higher order language skills, including literacy skills.

  • Academic achievement assessment using the Wechsler Individual Achievement Test, 3rd Edition (WIAT III) – 3 hours

    The WIAT III can identify the academic strengths and weaknesses of a student, inform decisions regarding eligibility for educational services, educational placement, or diagnosis of a specific learning disability.

Total Time: 15 hours includes assessment sessions, screening questionnaires, review of all relevant information, report writing time and feedback.

Cost: $3500 ($3000 for assessment where a cognitive assessment has already been completed).

A feedback session follows assessment and the assessment report is provided. The assessment report can be provided to relevant professionals by the family.

Useful information about diagnosis:

SPELD: https://dsf.net.au/families/what-is-involved-in-an-assessment