By Dr. Britta Boekamp, Clinical Psychologist
“Know thyself” is more than an ancient saying, it is the foundation of personal growth. Understanding how we think, feel, and behave allows us to approach challenges with clarity and empathy while leveraging our strengths to thrive in everyday life. Psychological assessment is a structured, evidence-based tool that helps us achieve exactly that. It provides insights into cognitive abilities, emotional patterns, and personality traits, giving actionable strategies to maximize strengths, support growth, and enhance connections with others.
Understanding Yourself Through Psychological Assessment
- Clarify recurring emotional or behavioural challenges
- Understand the roots of stress, anxiety, or attention difficulties
- Recognize personal strengths that can be applied in relationships, school, or work
- Approach oneself and others with greater empathy
Maximizing Strengths and Approaching Challenges with Empathy
- Understand why certain situations are more challenging
- Recognize personal strengths that may complement or compensate for areas of difficulty
- Develop strategies that use these strengths to navigate daily life
ADHD and Autism Assessments: Seeing the Invisible
Assessments are particularly valuable for neurodivergent conditions such as ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Many people spend years feeling different or misunderstood before receiving a comprehensive evaluation.
What these assessments involve
- Developmental and social history interviews
- Rating scales for attention, hyperactivity, and executive functioning
- Cognitive and behavioural tasks
- Observations of social and emotional responses
Benefits Across the Lifespan
For Children
- Early Intervention: Identifying ADHD, autism, learning differences, or giftedness early improves long-term outcomes in academics, emotional regulation, and social skills
- Educational Planning: Assessment results guide IEPs and other school supports
- Parental Understanding: Parents gain insight into their child’s unique needs and strengths
- Social Development: Targeted support fosters confidence and meaningful peer relationships
For Adults
- Self-Understanding and Validation: Adults often experience relief and clarity after understanding the roots of long-standing challenges
- Targeted Supports: Assessment guides therapy, coaching, and support strategies that improve daily functioning
- Workplace Accommodations: Results can support requests for flexible schedules or alternative work arrangements
- Relationship Insights: Awareness of one’s own neurodivergence improves communication and reduces conflict
A Neuroaffirming Perspective
Neuroaffirming assessment includes
- Strengths-Based Focus: Highlighting talents alongside challenges
- Individualized Understanding: Evaluating each person’s unique lived experience, goals, and values
- Empowerment and Advocacy: Providing tools and language to advocate for needs and celebrate identity
- Reducing Stigma: Reframing neurodivergence as a normal part of human diversity
Reducing Stigma Through Assessment
- Gain accurate knowledge about ADHD, autism, and other neurotypes
- Learn vocabulary to advocate effectively
- Promote inclusion in schools, workplaces, and communities
- Inspire others to seek support and challenge stereotypes
Types of Psychological Assessments at PathWell
- ADHD Assessments
- Autism Spectrum Assessments
- Learning Disabilities Testing
- Gifted Testing
- Personality Assessments
- Diagnostic Testing for Mood, Anxiety, and Other Disorders
- Memory Testing
- IQ Testing
- Cognitive Functioning Assessments
Each assessment provides actionable insights, helping individuals thrive, manage challenges, and foster meaningful connections.
Pro Tips: Considering a Psychological Assessment
- Reflect on Your Goals: Are you curious about attention, mood, social interactions, or learning patterns?
- Notice Patterns: Journaling can help highlight recurring challenges or strengths
- Consider Strengths: Recognizing what energizes or motivates you is as important as understanding difficulties
- Approach with Curiosity: View assessment as a tool for insight and growth, not a label
- Ask Questions Ahead of Time: Understand the types of assessments and what insights they provide
Ways to Offset the Cost of Assessment
There are ways to maximize access and offset costs:
- Extended Health Benefits – Psychological assessments are typically covered under psychological services. Check your plan for details.
- Medical Expense Tax Credit – Psychologists are recognized by the Canada Revenue Agency as medical practitioners, so psychological services, including assessments, can be claimed on your personal taxes.
- Health Spending Accounts (HSAs) – Some HSAs cover psychological assessments. Verify with your provider.
Maximizing value: Choose a psychologist who practices a neuroaffirming and collaborative approach, ensuring actionable strategies and recommendations are provided, not just a diagnosis.
Take the Next Step
Understanding yourself is the first step to thriving!
To explore your mind, seek clarity through a psychological assessment, or learn more about PathWell’s 360-degree approach to mental wellness, reach out today at 647-241-5438 or [email protected].
Dr. Britta Boekamp
Psy.D., Clinical Psychologist
Dr. Boekamp conducts diagnostic and psychoeducational assessments for ages 6+ for a variety presenting issues: including but not limited to ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, specific learning disabilities, giftedness, school or workplace accommodations, anxiety, depression, PTSD and mood disorders. She also provides individual therapy for adolescents and adults.