Psychological Assessments for Children, Adolescents & Adults
When questions about learning, attention, behaviour or emotional functioning need clear answers, a thorough psychological assessment can provide direction and relief.
Vivien Suttner, Clinical Psychologist with Masters in Educational Psychology). specialises in comprehensive, evidence-based psychological assessments. for individuals presenting with learning, attention, cognitive, behavioural problems. She focuses on diagnostic accuracy, clarity and practical recommendations that are meaningful for families, schools, GPs and other professionals.
When an assessment may be helpful
A psychological assessment may be appropriate when there are ongoing questions or concerns about learning, attention, cognition and behaviour. Assessments are available for children, adolescents and adults.
Assessments are commonly sought when:
A child or adolescent is experiencing learning difficulties, attention problems, behavioural concerns or academic underachievement
An adult is seeking assessment for ADHD, learning differences or cognitive concerns
There is uncertainty about diagnosis or contributing psychological factors
Formal assessment is required to support educational accommodations, workplace adjustments or treatment planning
Schools, GPs, paediatricians or psychiatrists require a comprehensive, defensible assessment report
An assessment may be helpful if:
You’re noticing ongoing learning or attention difficulties that aren’t improving with time
You or your child is working much harder than peers, becoming anxious, frustrated or avoidant around schoolwork
Teachers, colleagues, or others have raised questions about focus, learning or behaviour
You (or your child) seem bright but inconsistent, or things don’t match potential
You’re wondering about ADHD, learning differences, or how someone thinks and processes information
Emotions or behaviour feel big, intense, or hard to manage, and you’re unsure why
You’re seeking clarity, reassurance or direction — not just a label
A school, GP or specialist has suggested a formal assessment may be useful
If you’re unsure, an initial conversation can help clarify whether an assessment is the right next step.
Why people choose an assessment:
Understand what’s really going on, rather than guessing or worrying
Make sense of long-standing patterns in learning, attention, behaviour or emotions
Replace self-blame or uncertainty with clear, evidence-based explanations
Feel more confident about next steps — at school, work, or in daily life
Learn what supports, adjustments or strategies are likely to be genuinely helpful
Feel reassured that concerns have been taken seriously and thoroughly explored
For many people, having a clear explanation — even when challenges are identified — feels lighter than ongoing uncertainty. It allows you to move forward with understanding, direction and support.
Types of Assessments
Comprehensive ADHD assessments aligned with DSM-5-TR criteria, incorporating clinical interview and developmental history, behavioural rating scales, cognitive and executive functioning assessment and differential diagnosis where required.
Reports provide clear diagnostic conclusions and practical recommendations for educational, medical and workplace settings.
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ADHD Assessment (Children & Adults)
Personality and behavioural assessments may be indicated where there are complex emotional or interpersonal difficulties, diagnostic uncertainty and questions regarding personality structure or functioning.
These assessments are conducted where clinically appropriate and integrated with broader psychological formulation.
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Personality & Behavioural Assessments
Cognitive assessments may be requested to clarify intellectual functioning, inform educational placement or support needs and assist with diagnostic formulation.
Reports clearly explain cognitive profiles and functional implications.
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Cognitive (IQ) Assessments
Assessment of learning and academic difficulties, including cognitive (IQ) assessment, academic achievement testing, identification of specific learning disorders (e.g. reading, writing, mathematics), assessment to inform educational planning and school-based supports.
Vivien’s background in Educational Psychology ensures results are translated into clear, school-relevant recommendations.
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Learning & Educational Assessments
The Assessment Process
All assessments are structured, thorough and individualised. The process typically includes:
Initial intake and history gathering
Standardised psychometric testing
Collateral information where relevant (e.g. school, referrer)
A comprehensive written report
Feedback session to explain findings and recommendations
Reports are written in clear, professional language and are suitable for use by:
Schools and universities
GPs, paediatricians and psychiatrists
Allied health professionals
Employers (where appropriate)
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Contact the practice to discuss your concerns and what you’re hoping to understand. We’ll guide you on whether a psychological assessment may be helpful.
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An initial appointment allows for history taking, clarification of questions, and discussion of the most appropriate assessment pathway.
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Assessment sessions involve standardised testing, clinical interview and, where relevant, collateral information.
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You will receive a comprehensive written report and a feedback session to explain findings and recommendations.
Clinical Psychologist with Masters in Educational Psychology, MAPS.
Meet Vivien
Vivien is trained in a range of psychological therapies and specialises in comprehensive, evidence-based psychological assessments for individuals presenting with learning, attention, cognitive and behavioural problems.
Vivien focuses on diagnostic accuracy, clarity and practical recommendations that are meaningful for families, schools, GPs and other professionals.
“Understanding ourselves can help us to make sense of so much of life. Whether it’s school, a relationship or any other area of difficulty, understanding why we are the way we are can help us to be kinder to ourselves and to be the best that we can be.”
Vivien Suttner, Principal Psychologist
FAQS
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Assessments range from $650 for a basic assessment to $1650 for a comprehensive assessment (full cognitive, behavioural and ADHD assessment).
If you are unsure of which assessment you need please complete the online enquiry form and Vivien will be in touch to discuss your needs further.
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Vivien regularly accepts referrals from:
GPs
Paediatricians
Psychiatrists
Schools and learning support teams
Allied health professionals
Reports are aligned with DSM-5-TR diagnostic criteria and include clear rationales, results and recommendations. Liaison with referrers and schools can be provided where appropriate.
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Yes, if you’re unsure, an initial conversation can help clarify whether an assessment is the right next step.
Complete the online enquiry form and Vivien will be in touch to discuss your needs further.
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Clinical Psychologist with specialist training in Educational Psychology
Strong focus on diagnostic clarity and practical recommendations
Experience working across clinical, educational and multidisciplinary settings
Reports designed to be useful, defensible and easily interpreted
Send an enquiry or book an Assessment
To discuss whether a psychological assessment is appropriate, book an assessment or to make a referral, please complete this form and Vivien will be in touch.