Assessments at Succeed Psychology
The Role of a Psychologist Explained:
Psychologists are mental health professionals trained to assess, diagnose, and treat a wide range of psychological conditions. They specialise in administering and interpreting standardised tests and conducting comprehensive assessments to understand cognitive, emotional, and behavioural functioning. They provide evidence-based and gold-standard therapy for a range of emotional, social, educational or relational issues.
When to See a Psychologist for Assessment:
Mental Health or Diagnostic Assessment:
Psychologists use a range of structured, semi structured or non-structured interviews and tools to explain peoples symptoms in the context of their complicated lives and personal histories. At Succeed Psychology we utilise tools such as Novopsych that collates testing data and can graph progress over time. These diagnoses can be utilised for many purposes such as when special consideration is required at work or school, or for applications for further support in NDIS.
ADHD Assessments:
Psychologists at Succeed Psychology use evidence-based tools, including the Conners-4 and structured interviews aligned with DSM-5-TR criteria, to accurately identify symptoms of ADHD. They evaluate aspects such as attention, impulsivity, executive functioning, and behavioural regulation. We utilise the WISC to add more depth to the picture of ADHD and to differentiate whether poor school performance (for example) is due to an intellectual challenge or issue with executive functioning. The results from the WISC often give us clues as to what may be causing these inattentive or hyperactive symptoms. It measures intellectual functioning (IQ) across five key domains:
Verbal Comprehension Index (VCI) – Measures verbal reasoning, concept formation, and knowledge acquired from one's environment.
Visual Spatial Index (VSI) – Assesses the ability to perceive, analyse, and mentally manipulate visual information.
Fluid Reasoning Index (FRI) – Evaluates non-verbal and abstract problem-solving ability.
Working Memory Index (WMI) – Measures the capacity to hold and manipulate information in short-term memory.
Processing Speed Index (PSI) – Assesses the speed and accuracy of visual identification, decision-making, and implementation.
These indices combine to give a Full Scale IQ (FSIQ), though subscale profiles are often more informative, particularly in neurodiverse assessments.
ASD Assessments:
Our psychologists conduct detailed evaluations using gold-standard tools like the ADOS-2 (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule) and the ADI-R (Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised), gathering developmental histories and observing social interactions. We use the ADOS to measure domains such as:
Communication
Use of spoken language (including frequency, quality, and content)
Nonverbal communication (e.g., gestures, facial expressions, eye contact)
Unusual speech patterns (e.g., echolalia, scripting)
Reciprocal Social Interaction
Shared attention and joint engagement
Initiation and response to social interactions
Use of appropriate social overtures
Quality of social responses and social emotional reciprocity
Play and Imagination
Use of toys and materials in imaginative or functional ways
Creativity and flexibility in play
Symbolic and pretend play
Restricted and Repetitive Behaviours
Repetitive motor movements or use of objects
Insistence on sameness or rituals
Unusual sensory interests or reactions
SLD Assessments:
Specific learning disorders, such as dyslexia or dyscalculia, are assessed through cognitive and educational testing. Tools like the Vineland-3 Adaptive Behaviour Scales are utilised to assess adaptive functioning and practical daily living skills. We use the WIAT to assess academic achievement and learning ability across various subject areas. Key domains include:
Reading
Word Reading
Reading Comprehension
Pseudoword Decoding (phonics)
Oral Reading Fluency
Written Expression
Alphabet Writing Fluency
Spelling
Sentence Composition
Essay Composition
Mathematics
Numerical Operations
Math Problem Solving
Math Fluency (Addition, Subtraction, Multiplication – depending on age)
Oral Language
Listening Comprehension
Oral Expression (including expressive vocabulary and syntax)
Succeed Psychology: A Best Practice Approach
Differential Diagnosis and the Biopsychosocial Model:
One of the key benefits of a psychological assessment at Succeed Psychology is the comprehensive differential diagnosis process. Rather than simply assigning a diagnostic label, we take a holistic, biopsychosocial approach to understand the full context of an individual’s symptoms. This means considering biological, psychological, and social factors that may be influencing the presentation.
Our reports do not merely state a diagnosis but explain how different factors interplay to influence the client's functioning. For example:
Biological Factors: Consideration of neurological profiles, genetic predispositions, or sensory processing differences.
Psychological Factors: Exploration of cognitive patterns, emotional regulation, thought processes, and coping mechanisms.
Social Factors: Consideration of the individual’s environment, including school, family, and peer interactions.
Relationship factors: Consideration of attachment style, attachment ruptures and how these impact the clients interpersonal relationships and symptom maintenance.
Past trauma: A trauma informed examination with a recognition of the indelible impact of adverse childhood events, traumatic incidents or complex trauma.
This holistic view allows us to create comprehensive, individualised recommendations that are practical and supportive. Domains covered in our recommendations include:
Educational Strategies: Tailored learning supports and adjustments to accommodate cognitive strengths and challenges, such as using visual supports or breaking tasks into manageable steps.
Social Skills Development: Structured interventions to build social insight and reciprocal interaction, tailored to the client’s unique profile.
Sensory Processing Strategies: Environmental modifications to reduce sensory overload or provide sensory input as needed.
Executive Functioning Support: Practical tools and strategies to enhance organisation, planning, and impulse control.
Emotional Regulation Techniques: Strategies for identifying and managing emotions, often incorporating evidence-based practices like mindfulness or emotion coaching.
Why Succeed Psychology’s Assessments Are Different
At Succeed Psychology, our assessments are built on a neurodiversity-affirming, strengths-based framework that sees the individual as more than just a set of symptoms. Here’s how we offer a gold-standard approach:
Neurodiversity-Affirming Language and Framework: DSM-5 criteria are included but translated into affirming, accessible language that empowers clients and reduces stigma.
Highly Individualised, Holistic Assessment: Our assessments explore the whole person—covering developmental history, sensory profiles, social contexts, mental health, strengths, challenges, and routines. No templated checklists—each report is a nuanced narrative that honours lived experience.
Thorough Data Triangulation: We use multiple gold-standard tools (e.g., ADOS-2, ADI-R, Conners-4, Vineland-3, WHODAS-2, CAT-Q, AQ), and integrate input from parents, teachers, partners, and clients themselves to ensure a 360-degree view.
Advanced Sensory Profiling: Our reports provide detailed, domain-specific sensory profiles, documenting how sensitivities and preferences affect daily life across home, school, and work.
Recognition of Twice-Exceptionality (2e): We understand how high cognitive ability can mask or complicate neurodivergent traits. Our assessments are tailored to differentiate giftedness from support needs.
Developmentally Grounded and Context-Sensitive: Reports trace development from infancy and consider contextual stressors (e.g., trauma, school transitions, COVID-19) in interpreting functioning and behaviour.
Practical, Personalised Recommendations: Each recommendation is tailored to the client’s real-world environments—whether home, school, or work—with actionable strategies that support meaningful change.
Professional, Compassionate Writing: Our clients and their families often share that they feel truly seen. Our reports are written with warmth, clarity, and clinical excellence.
Time-Intensive, High-Quality Assessment Process: We spend 6–7 hours per assessment including clinical interviews and testing, allowing for depth and precision in formulation.
Focus on Lived Experience: Client voices, quotes, sensory experiences, and interests are integrated directly into the report—because the individual’s story matters.
Coordinating Care: Working Together for Optimal Outcomes
Often, a combined approach is most beneficial. A psychologist’s thorough assessment can inform a psychiatrist or paediatrician’s treatment plan, particularly when medication is indicated. By working together, we ensure that our clients receive well-rounded, effective care that addresses both diagnostic clarity and practical management.
Still Unsure?
If you're not sure who to see, start with your GP or reach out to Succeed Psychology for a complimentary needs assessment. We can help clarify your needs and connect you with the most appropriate professionals.
Visit our website or contact us directly for more information or to book an assessment.