Getting Started with Assessment or Therapy
Frequently Asked Questions about our assessment and therapy services for children and teens ages 3 to 24 in the Stellarton, NS and Truro, NS areas.
We’re here to help!
What can I expect from therapy?
Your therapist will work with you and your child to set goals that fit your needs and situation. Sessions are tailored to help you or your child work toward their therapy goal.
The first session will be more conversational and focused on getting to know your child, so your therapist can set up a therapy plan.
Our therapists create a warm, safe, and nonjudgmental space so new clients feel welcome and can freely share in sessions.
How long will therapy take?
There is no one set amount of time. Instead, it varies per person depending on the goals, circumstances, and motivation.
What can I do to get the most out of therapy?
You and your child’s active participation and dedication will be crucial to your success. Engaging with your therapist and following through on any homework assignments will help you and your child keep moving forward toward the therapy goal.
When are you available for appointments?
We see clients in person in our Stellarton and Truro, Nova Scotia offices. Typically, appointments occur Monday through Friday, daytime and evening. However, availability may vary from week to week, depending on each therapist’s schedule.
Do you provide in person or virtual appointments?
We offer in person and virtual therapy. Assessment is in person only and is provided at both the Stellarton Clinic and the Truro Clinic.
Do you offer evening and weekend hours?
Our availability for evening or weekends varies by service provider and the type of service offered. Please call us for more information.
What is your cancellation policy?
We understand that sometimes schedules can change unexpectedly. We require a 24 hour cancellation notice for therapy and a 72 hour notice for assessments so we can work to fill the date with another family who may be waiting.
How do I know if my child needs a psychoeducational assessment?
Often, your child’s school will suggest an assessment if they notice your child is falling behind their peers. However, you may also see signs that your child is struggling with reading, writing, math, and/or behaviour.
What will my child do during a Psychoeducational Assessment?
Your child will do a number of activities, including making patterns with blocks, paper and pencil activities, verbal responses to questions, evaluation of motor skills, and academic activities (including math, ready, and writing).
What is typically involved in a psychoeducational assessment?
Assessments will look at your child’s developmental, family, and medical history, as well as school functioning and history. Additionally, they include an assessment of your child’s cognitive functioning (thinking and reasoning abilities), executive functioning, memory, and academics.
How should I prepare my child for appointments?
We recommend informing your child that they will be coming to work with someone to help understand how they are doing at school, and to help with reading, math, writing, friendships, or attention and behaviour. They will complete numerous activities to help us, parents, teachers, and them understand how their brain best works.
Please ensure that your child is well-rested and had a good meal before the assessment. You are encouraged to bring along a bottle of water and some snacks.
Should I bring any documentation with me?
Yes. If you have previous records, please bring them. These can include report cards, previous assessments, Adaptations Menu, and Individual Program Plan.
We’re here to support you, your child, and your family.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment.