FAQ

Think of an Educational Psychologist (EP) as a bridge between clinical understanding and classroom reality. We look at how a child learns, thinks, and feels within their specific environment. By identifying a child’s unique cognitive and emotional profile, we can provide schools and parents with a "roadmap" to help the child thrive rather than just cope.

It means that instead of focusing solely on deficits, we recognize that brains are wired differently. Our assessments celebrate these differences—such as hyper-focus, creative problem-solving, or deep empathy—while identifying the specific barriers in the environment that are making things difficult for them.

You might consider an assessment if you are noticing ongoing difficulties with learning, attention, behaviour, or emotions that are not improving with time or support.

Sometimes, it is not about a clear problem, but a sense that something is not quite adding up. An assessment can help bring clarity to what your child is experiencing and what will support them best.

The initial consultation is a space for you to share your concerns and for us to understand your child’s background. We will explore your child’s developmental and school history, current concerns  and discuss what you are hoping to better understand. From there, we will recommend the most appropriate next steps, which may or may not include a formal assessment.

Not always. Some children benefit from beginning with intervention or consultation, particularly when concerns are already clear. When needed, we may recommend an assessment to better understand underlying difficulties and guide more targeted support.

We go to great lengths to ensure the environment feels warm and low-pressure. For younger children, much of the assessment involves play-based activities and puzzles. For older children, we prioritize their voice and comfort, ensuring they understand that this process is about helping them understand their own "superpowers" and hurdles.

The total time can vary based on the complexity of the child's profile. Most assessments are scheduled within a month after the initial parent consultation. The face-to face meetings with your child can usually be completed within 2-3 appointments. We will schedule a parent feedback meeting 4 weeks after assessment is completed, where the psychologist will go through all the results and recommendations for your child. You will receive a comprehensive written report after this parent feedback meeting.

Assessment is just the beginning. Following the assessment, we will discuss what the findings mean, what support your child needs in terms of practical next steps. This may include intervention, school support, or ongoing follow-up, depending on your child’s needs.

Yes. Our assessments are rigorous and evidence-informed, making them suitable for supporting applications for exam access arrangements, learning support and special educational needs support.

If you have a specific deadline (e.g., school application), please let us know in advance. We will let you know if an expedited timeline is possible. Additional fees may apply.

We offer systemic consultancy to work directly with educators to adapt curriculum delivery, improve inclusive practices, and ensure the recommendations in our reports are actually sustainable in a busy classroom.

Our approach is collaborative and respectful. We recognise the complexities of the school environment and work alongside educators to, understand their perspectives, build on what is already working and suggest practical strategies that feel manageable. Our aim is always to support, not to evaluate or criticise.

Currently, our primary focus is on comprehensive child assessments, skill-building through intervention and consultancy for parents and schools. This ensures we can provide the highest level of clarity and systemic support. However, we are looking toward expanding our therapeutic services in the future to offer continued support for emotional regulation and social connection.

This varies depending on your child’s needs. Some children benefit from short-term, targeted support, while others may need longer-term guidance. We review progress regularly and adjust the approach as your child develops.

While tuition focuses on academic content, intervention focuses on how your child learns and manages themselves. This may include organisation and planning, attention and self-regulation, emotional understanding and social thinking. By strengthening these underlying skills, children are better able to cope with learning demands more independently.

Yes. Parent involvement is an important part of the process. We will share strategies and insights so that you feel confident supporting your child outside of sessions.

Coverage varies depending on your insurance provider and plan. We recommend checking directly with your insurer regarding eligibility for psychological services. Where needed, we can provide documentation to support claims.

Appointments are best arranged by getting in touch with us directly. If you are unsure where to start, an initial consultation is usually the best first step.

Some sessions, particularly parent consultations or follow-ups, are usually conducted online if appropriate. Assessment sessions are typically conducted in person to ensure accuracy and reliability.

We require at least 48 hours’ notice for cancellations or rescheduling. Late cancellations or missed appointments may be subject to a fee, as the time has been reserved specifically for your child.

Schedule a brief discovery call to see if Amber Cove is the right fit for your family. Reach us via the CONTACT US link.