Frequently Asked Questions

General Questions

  • Our team is comprised of highly trained and experienced child psychologists who are dedicated to providing personalized, evidence-based assessment and treatment plans tailored to each client’s unique needs. We emphasize a holistic approach, considering all aspects of a child's development, and ensure collaboration with families for the best outcomes.

    Our office also features several perks to enhance your appointment, including free parking, complimentary snacks and beverages at our reception, and a playroom for children to enjoy before and after their appointment.

  • A Registered Provisional Psychologist is someone who has completed their formal education in psychology and is in the process of gaining practical experience under supervision by a seasoned Registered Psychologist.

    Choosing a Registered Provisional Psychologist means you’ll benefit from the dual expertise: the fresh insights and committment to learning of a psychologist in training, paired with the oversight and experience of a Registered Psychologist!

  • No referral is needed to access psychological services in Alberta and we are typically able to accommodate appointments right away.

  • Yes, psychological services are typically covered under workplace insurance plans. We suggest checking coverage with your provider prior to booking.

  • We facilitate the insurance process by providing you with detailed receipts that you can submit to your provider for reimbursement.

  • Yes, Bluebird Psychology is proud to offer a select number of sliding scale assessments every year. Please contact us at office@bluebirdpsychology.ca or click here to learn more!

  • Yes, in Alberta, both parents will need to provide consent for services. Don’t worry, if you provide contact information for your child’s other parent, we will reach out to them directly to go through the consent process.

Assessment Questions

  • A psychoeducational assessment is a way to understand how your child learns and processes information. It looks at their thinking, learning, attention, and emotional skills to give you a clear picture of their strengths and areas where they may need extra support. The results can help you make informed decisions and give you practical strategies to help your child thrive at school and at home.

  • The assessment length varies depending on scheduling but typically takes between 6-8 weeks from start to finish.

  • When deciding between booking an ADHD assessment or a psychoeducational assessment for your child, it's important to consider the specific areas of concern you have.

    An ADHD assessment is focused on diagnosing Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, and examining symptoms like inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.

    On the other hand, a psychoeducational assessment provides a more comprehensive evaluation of your child's learning and cognitive abilities. This type of assessment can help identify learning disabilities, academic challenges, and other cognitive or emotional factors affecting your child's educational experience.

    If you have concerns about ADHD and other learning challenges, a psychoeducational assessment may be more appropriate.

    Feel free to reach out to our team at office@bluebirdpsychology.ca or book a free 15-minute phone consultation with one of our psychologists if you need further guidance or support!

  • All of our assessments begin with an intake meeting. This is where we talk about the reasons you are having the assessment done and the questions you’d like answered. We also review you or your child’s learning, medical, social, and emotional needs and history.

    Depending on the type of assessment, we may also ask you and your child’s teacher to fill out some questionnaires and review report cards.

    Your intake meeting may also be followed by one or more assessment sessions. During these appointments, we use standardized, evidence-based tools to measure different skills, such as cognitive abilities and academics.

    Once all of that is done, you meet with the psychologist to review results, discuss outcomes, and chat about next steps. You will also receive a written report that can you use as a guidebook for supporting your child.

    The exact process will depend on the type of assessment:

    • Psychoeducational Assessment – A parent intake, two child testing sessions, questionnaires, and feedback.

    • GATE Program Gifted Assessment – Parent intake, cognitive and academic sessions, and a feedback meeting.

    • Westmount Charter School Assessment – Parent intake, cognitive session, and a feedback meeting.

    • ADHD Assessment – Parent/Adult intake, the completion of questionnaires, and a feedback meeting.

  • Make sure your child is well-rested, has eaten a healthy meal beforehand, and bring any necessary items like glasses or medication information. We recommend describing the sessions as activities or puzzles that help us understand how they learn, rather than as a “test.” A comfort item can help younger children feel at ease. Children are also welcome to bring snacks and water to enjoy during testing breaks.