KIDS GUIDE 2021

HEALTHY & HAPPY

About Psychological Assessments

A basic Psychological Assessment ranges between $1,600 and $2,500. Prices could vary depending on the added complexity to the process. For further information, or to learn more about Promises Healthcare, contact clinic@promises.com.sg or call 6397 7309. What’s reassuring is that you and your son or daughter will never be alone from the moment you make an enquiry at Promises. “Our multidisciplinary team of psychiatrists, psychologists, counsellors, educational and play therapists, plus a family physician, are dedicated to guiding you throughout,” says Tan. “We always have you and your child’s best interests at heart. As is the motto of life right now, we are in this together!” A written report will be prepared afterwards, highlighting areas of strengths and difficulties, with advice for home and school settings. Parents also get a feedback session where they can ask questions and discuss concerns. Why test so young? Formany children, having a comprehensive evaluation is a first step not only to being diagnosed, but getting early intervention and direction. “Having your child assessed as soon as difficulties become apparent goes a long way in assisting parents to set up appropriate measures,” says Tan. Waiting too long for a diagnosis can be heartbreaking for those experiencing setbacks. “Your child may feel diminished, ineffective and enormously stressed,” she adds. “Anxiety may affect their performance at school, which in turn will impact their overall behaviour.” Anbarasu adds, “If issues aren’t nipped in the bud early, it could pave the way for potential mental health problems such as depression in the future.”

Psychological Assessments don’t have to be daunting: think of them as a big interactive quiz. Depending on your concerns and your child’s needs, there are two main types of evaluation that are typically conducted to ascertain your child’s profile. #1 Psychoeducational Evaluation This covers assessments on intellectual functioning and academic skills such as reading, writing, language and numeracy. Psych-ed evaluations are also required for recommendations on school placement, or for applications for exam accommodation. #2 Neuropsychological Evaluation This includes tests of intelligence, academic achievement and cognitive functioning – so, areas involving information processing, attention and concentration, learning and memory, and visual perceptual abilities, to name a few. You can also be assured that these aren’t scary school exams of olden days; there are no fusty gym halls and loud ticking clocks involved here. And if you’re fearful about your child feeling worried during the tests, Promises ensures that everyone involved is comfortable. “The good news is that most children enjoy the tests as they include novel and fun materials,” says Anbarasu. How the process works Taking Psychological Assessments isn’t a speedy process. However, breaking the tests up into bite-sized chunks can prevent children (and parents!) feeling tired, restless, or reaching for chocolate. “Expect to set aside time for two or more sessions, each lasting around two hours. An average total of six to ten hours is needed, depending on the complexity of the assessment,” says Tan Su-Lynn, Senior Educational Psychologist at Promises. “Along with the one-on-one testing and observations, there will also be interviews with the parents and child, and feedback from teachers if necessary.”

107 KIDS’ GUIDE2021