Assessment
1.​ What is a Psychological Assessment?
Psychological assessment uses structured interviews and standardized measures to better understand how a person thinks, feels, and functions in daily life. These assessments can provide valuable insight into areas such as problem solving, behaviour, emotional well-being, and life skills.
Our practice currently offers assessments for:
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Adult ADHD Assessment (18+) – to evaluate attention, executive functioning, and related difficulties and determine whether they meet diagnostic criteria for ADHD.
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Adult PTSD / Trauma Assessment – to evaluate symptoms related to trauma and determine whether they meet diagnostic criteria for post-traumatic stress.
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Each assessment is designed to provide a clearer understanding of your experiences and practical recommendations for next steps.
We are here to support you in finding the clarity and answers you need.
2. ​How This Differs From a Medical Diagnosis?
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Family physicians in Canada can diagnose conditions such as ADHD and PTSD and prescribe medication, often at no direct cost to patients. A psychological assessment, however, provides a more comprehensive evaluation of how symptoms developed and how they affect daily functioning.
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A psychological assessment typically includes:
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A comprehensive clinical interview exploring developmental history and current functioning
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Standardized rating scales and evidence-based assessment tools
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Screening for other conditions that may present with similar symptoms
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Careful differential diagnosis to clarify the most accurate explanation for the concerns
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A written psychological report summarizing findings and recommendations
This process can provide greater diagnostic clarity and practical guidance for treatment, supports, or next steps.
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3. Booking an Assessment
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If you are considering an ADHD or PTSD assessment, the first step is completing confidential intake and screening process. This process helps determine whether the service is appropriate for your needs.
What to Expect
Once it is determined that a comprehensive assessment is appropriate, you will move to the next 5 steps.
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Standardized and Evidence-Based questionnaires You and observers (from your childhood if applicable) will complete questionaries.
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Detailed Clinical Interview:
Our psychologist will have detailed clinical interview exploring your current concerns, developmental history, educational experiences, and daily functioning. -
Clinical Review and Evaluation
Information from the interview, questionnaires, and any available
background information is carefully reviewed to determine whether
your concerns meet DSM-5-TR criteria for ADHD or PTSD or are better
explained by another condition.
4. Written Report
5. Feedback Session
You and our psychologist will review the results together and discuss recommendations, potential treatment options, and any questions you may have.
4. Signs You May Benefit From an ADHD Assessment
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Adults often seek an ADHD assessment when long-standing difficulties with attention, organization, or follow-through begin to significantly impact work, education, or daily life. While occasional distraction is common, persistent patterns may warrant a closer evaluation.
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You may benefit from an ADHD assessment if you experience:
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Ongoing difficulty concentrating or staying focused on tasks
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Problems with organization, planning, or time management
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Frequently starting tasks but struggling to finish them
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Chronic procrastination despite strong intentions
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Forgetfulness in daily activities
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Feeling mentally overwhelmed by routine responsibilities
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Difficulty regulating attention in meetings, conversations, or reading
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A history of academic or workplace struggles related to attention
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Family members who have been diagnosed with ADHD
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Questions about whether ADHD may explain long-standing patterns
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5. Signs You May Benefit From a PTSD / Trauma Assessment
Adults often seek a PTSD assessment when distressing reactions to past traumatic experiences begin to significantly impact daily life, work, or relationships. While it is normal to feel upset or anxious after stressful events, persistent or intense symptoms may warrant a closer evaluation.
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You may benefit from a PTSD assessment if you experience:
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Recurrent distressing memories, flashbacks, or nightmares related to a traumatic event
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Avoidance of people, places, or activities that remind you of trauma
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Heightened anxiety, irritability, or sudden emotional outbursts
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Difficulty feeling safe or relaxed in daily life
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Feeling emotionally numb, detached, or disconnected from others
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Sleep disturbances or trouble concentrating
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Hypervigilance or an exaggerated startle response
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Difficulty maintaining relationships or performing at work or school due to trauma-related symptoms
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Ongoing questions about whether your experiences could be related to trauma or PTSD
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A desire for clarity about symptoms and guidance on evidence-based treatment
A PTSD assessment provides a structured, comprehensive evaluation of trauma-related symptoms and their impact, helping you understand your experiences and explore appropriate next steps for support and treatment.
6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I need a referral?
No referral is required—adults can self-refer for either an ADHD or PTSD assessment. Some clients choose to involve a third party, such as their family physician or another healthcare provider, particularly if insurance or other funding may fully or partially cover the cost of the assessment.
Will I definitely receive a diagnosis?
Not necessarily. The purpose of an assessment is to evaluate your experiences, clarify possible explanations, and provide professional guidance. Some assessments result in a formal diagnosis, while others provide insight into contributing factors and recommendations for support or treatment.
How long does the assessment process take?
The assessment process is typically completed within 2–3 weeks from the date of the initial clinical interview. This includes review of questionnaires, clinical evaluation, report writing, and the feedback session. Timelines may vary slightly depending on scheduling and the complexity of the assessment.
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Can this be used for workplace or academic documentation?
In many cases, yes. The assessment report can support workplace or academic accommodations and guide treatment planning. However, each organization or institution has its own criteria, and acceptance of the report is determined by them. This can be discussed during the intake process.
