Psychological assessment specialist

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 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

Assessments are available for children, adolescents and adults.

The assessment process

Step 1: Reach out
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.

Step 2: Initial consultation
An initial appointment allows for history taking, clarification of questions, and discussion of the most appropriate assessment pathway.

Step 3: Assessment sessions
Assessment sessions involve standardised testing, clinical interview and, where relevant, collateral information.

Step 4: Feedback and report
You will receive a comprehensive written report and a feedback session to explain findings and recommendations.

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.

Assessments are available for children, adolescents and adults.

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

ADHD Assessments (Children & Adults)

Comprehensive ADHD assessments aligned with DSM-5-TR criteria, incorporating:

• Clinical interview and developmental history

• Behavioural rating scales

• Cognitive and executive functioning assessment

• Differential diagnosis where required

Reports provide clear diagnostic conclusions and practical recommendations for educational, medical and workplace settings.

Learning & Educational 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.

Cognitive (IQ) Assessments

Cognitive assessments may be requested to:

• Clarify intellectual functioning

• Inform educational placement or support needs

• Assist with diagnostic formulation

Reports clearly explain cognitive profiles and functional implications.

Personality & Behavioural Assessments

Personality and behavioural assessments may be indicated where there are:

• Complex emotional or interpersonal difficulties

• Diagnostic uncertainty

• Questions regarding personality structure or functioning

These assessments are conducted where clinically appropriate and integrated with broader psychological formulation.

What to expect from 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)

Referrer information

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.

Why choose 360 Psychology for assessment

• 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

Enquiries and referrals

To discuss whether a psychological assessment is appropriate, or to make a referral, please contact Vivien via the Contact page.