COMBINED AUTISM & PSYCHOEDUCATIONAL ASSESSMENTS
As a Registered Psychologist in Victoria, BC, and a pediatric neuropsychologist by training, Dr. Halliday offers combined autism and psychoeducational assessments for children, youth, and young adults. These assessments answer two questions in one process: whether an individual meets criteria for Autism Spectrum Disorder, and how their cognitive, academic, and emotional profile is affecting learning and daily life.
Autism often occurs alongside learning disabilities, ADHD, anxiety, or uneven cognitive profiles. A combined assessment looks at the whole picture together, rather than in separate assessments months apart. The goal is to provide families with diagnostic clarity and one integrated set of recommendations for home, school, and the community.
What is a combined assessment?
A combined assessment brings together the standardized autism diagnostic tools (ADI-R and ADOS-2) and a full psychoeducational assessment of cognitive, academic, and emotional functioning. The findings are interpreted together and presented in a single report.These assessments are often recommended for:
Concerns about social communication alongside difficulties at school
A child with a suspected autism diagnosis who is also struggling with reading, writing, or math
Questions about attention, executive functioning, or ADHD in addition to autism
Uneven strengths and challenges that are hard to explain
Families seeking both diagnostic clarity and school planning in one process
The results can be used to:
Confirm or rule out Autism Spectrum Disorder
Identify co-occurring learning disabilities, ADHD, or giftedness
Support access to services in British Columbia (e.g., Ministry of Children and Family Development Autism Funding)
Apply for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC) or Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP)
Inform school designations and Individualized Education Plans (IEPs)
Guide therapy, intervention, and family supports
The cost of a psychoeducational assessment is $4250.
View all assessment services here.
Combined assessments involve:
Intake Interview (90-minute appointment)
A meeting with primary caregivers to discuss current concerns and goals for the assessment. Caregivers review family, developmental, medical, and educational history, and complete the ADI-R (Autism Diagnostic Interview, Revised).Record Review and Consultation
Background records are collected and reviewed, such as report cards, OT or Speech-Language Pathology summaries, pediatrician or psychiatrist notes, and previous psychological assessments. Consultation with teachers or treatment providers may also be sought.
Semistructured Activities and Psychometric Testing (2-3 appointments)
The child, youth, or young adult completes the ADOS-2 (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, Second Edition), a series of activities that provide opportunities to observe social interaction, communication, and other behaviours relevant to autism. Psychometric testing involves the administration of standardized testing of cognitive skills (e.g., problem solving, attention, memory, language, executive functions) and academic performance. Questionnaires are also be included to evaluate mental health. A psychometrist may be involved in these appointments, under the supervision of Dr. Halliday.Feedback Session (90-minute appointment)
Meet to review results and impressions, discuss any diagnoses, and review recommendations. Feedback is typically held with caregivers for children up to 12; youth 13 and older are often encouraged to attend.Report and Recommendations
A single integrated report covering results, impressions, and any diagnoses, with recommendations tied to the referral questions. If a diagnosis of autism is made, forms to initiate funding supports will be provided.Optional: Feedback with School
An additional feedback with the school team can be arranged. This is typically done virtually.
Cost and Booking process
To schedule a psychoeducational assessment in Victoria, BC, please fill out the following new client form or contact us with any questions you have:
Email: info@drdrewhalliday.com
Phone: 236-470-0566
FAQs
Do I need a referral?
Nope! You can book directly without a referral from a physician
How long does the process take?
From intake to feedback, the process usually takes about 6 weeks, depending on scheduling.
Will you meet with my child’s school?
Yes, a virtual school meeting can be arranged to translate the findings for teachers and learning support staff.
Are assessments covered by insurance?
Many extended health plans provide coverage for services by a registered psychologist. Please check with your provider.