Getting Assessed

If you are struggling in school and have a cluster of symptoms as identified in the What To Look For page of my site, it’s important that you talk to a trusted adult and let them know what you are thinking and feeling. This could be a parent, your school counsellor, a teacher or a family member. Ask to have a psychoeducational assessment. 

Getting Assessed

Getting assessed can take two different paths: through the school system and through a private registered psychologist. 

Path 1: School System

While there is no cost to getting assessed through the school district in British Columbia, Canada, there are usually very long wait lists for students needing assessment. Ideally, speak to your parent and have them talk to your teacher and the school’s principal. They will help provide guidance and information on how to work through the school district’s process of getting assessed.

Path 2: Privately

Getting a private psychoeducational assessment can be faster than using school district services, but the costs are significant. The average cost of a private assessment ranges from $2000 – $3500 in BC. For families that can’t afford this service, charitable organizations such as the CKNW Kids Fund provide funding for children whose families can’t afford services or equipment.

Regardless of what path you take, the school district will need to be involved before you can have an Independent Education Plan (IEP) put in place. 

The Gifted Children’s Association of BC has answers to frequently asked questions and can be a useful tool when setting out to get a psychoeducational assessment.

CKNW Kids Fund

CKNW Kids Fund  - Application for Assistance