Understanding developmental & cognitive assessments

ADHD doesn’t look the same in everyone. Some young people may show bursts of energy and impulsive behaviour, while others may quietly drift off or struggle to stay organised.

Signs to Look Out For:

• Inattention: Easily distracted, forgetful, difficulty following instructions or completing tasks, loses track of time
• Hyperactivity: Always on the go, fidgeting, trouble sitting still or staying quiet
• Impulsivity: Interrupting others, blurting out answers, acting without thinking

These behaviours may be more noticeable in some environments than others. Everyone is different. ADHD can be diagnosed as predominantly hyperactive, inattentive, or combined type.

How We Assess for ADHD

Our ADHD assessments are thorough, gentle, and grounded in evidence-based practice. We take time to understand your or your child’s experiences.

1. Clinical Interview – With parents/caregivers and the young person (when appropriate) to explore experiences and behaviours
2. Standardised Rating Scales – Completed by the young person, parents, and teachers
3. Cognitive and Executive Function Testing – Exploring memory, attention, planning, and problem-solving
4. Observation and School Input – Teacher feedback provides real-world insight into classroom functioning

Autism is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects communication, relationships, and how a person processes the world. It exists on a spectrum, meaning it varies greatly from person to person. Some people show signs early, while others mask difficulties until demands increase.

Common Signs:

• Social communication differences – Trouble with eye contact, conversations, or understanding social cues
• Repetitive behaviours or intense interests – Routines, focused topics, repeated movements or speech
• Sensory sensitivities – Strong reactions to sounds, lights, or textures
• Preference for sameness – Difficulty with change or transitions
• Emotional regulation challenges – Big emotions, meltdowns, or overwhelm

How We Assess for Autism

We take time to understand the whole person, not just the symptoms.

1. Clinical Interview – With parents/caregivers and the young person to explore development, behaviour, and social-emotional experiences
2. Standardised Questionnaires – Completed by parents and often teachers
3. Autism-Specific Tools – Structured tasks and observations that explore communication, social interaction, and flexible thinking
4. School Input and Observation – Teacher feedback or observation in a familiar setting (when needed)

We understand that the process can feel overwhelming. We are here with respect, empathy, and support.

Cognitive assessments explore a person’s intellectual abilities and areas such as attention, memory, problem-solving, reasoning, and language. These are often used to identify learning or developmental challenges that may affect success in school, work, or relationships.

Signs That a Cognitive Assessment May Help:

• Difficulty with learning despite adequate instruction or support
• Memory and attention challenges such as forgetting instructions or struggling to focus
• Slow processing speed or needing more time to complete tasks
• Problem-solving struggles or difficulty applying logic
• Language difficulties in understanding or expressing ideas clearly

How We Assess Cognitive Functioning

Our cognitive assessments use evidence-based methods to give insight into how a person thinks and learns.

1. Clinical Interview – With parents/caregivers and sometimes the young person
2. Standardised Cognitive Testing – Tasks that assess attention, memory, and reasoning
3. Behavioural Observations – Looking at task approach, persistence, and frustration tolerance

School Input and Feedback – Information from teachers to understand school performance

Learning and academic assessments look at reading, writing, mathematics, and other core skills. They also explore cognitive processes like memory and attention to understand how a person approaches learning.

Signs That an Academic Assessment May Help:

• Struggles with basic skills despite practice and support
• Slow progress or difficulty keeping up with peers
• Disorganisation such as losing materials or forgetting tasks
• Focus difficulties in the classroom
• Low academic confidence or avoidance of schoolwork

How We Assess Learning and Academic Skills

Our assessments are personalised to each child or young person.

1. Clinical Interview – Discussing learning history and school experience
2. Standardised Academic Testing – Tasks that assess key academic skills against age norms
3. Cognitive and Learning Style Evaluation – Exploring how learning processes impact academic outcomes
4. Teacher Feedback – Insights from school on strengths and areas of concern
5. Observations of Learning Behaviours – How the person approaches learning tasks

We understand that academic challenges can affect confidence and motivation. Our aim is to help young people feel understood, supported, and empowered in their learning journey.