Clarity That Counts: Fast, Effective Assessments for ADHD & Learning Disorders

The first step in the process is booking an assessment intake session. During this meeting, we gather background information, discuss concerns, and outline the goals of the assessment. This ensures the evaluation is tailored to your needs and sets the foundation for clear, actionable results.

scroll down the list and click assessment intake

Assessments for Adults and Child/Teens

Psychoeducational Assessments for ADHD and Specific Learning Disorders

Psychoeducational assessments are an important step in understanding how children, youth, and adults learn, process information, and manage attention. These assessments go beyond grades and classroom performance to uncover the cognitive and emotional factors that influence success. At Southside Psychology, we offer thorough evaluations to provide clarity and direction for individuals and families seeking answers about ADHD and learning disorders.

An assessment typically explores multiple areas, including attention, memory, language, processing speed, executive functioning, and academic skills such as reading, writing, and math. For individuals who may be struggling at school, at work, or in daily life, these evaluations help identify whether difficulties stem from ADHD, a specific learning disorder, or other underlying factors.

When ADHD is suspected, psychoeducational assessments are particularly valuable in distinguishing between attention-related challenges and other causes of distractibility or underperformance. Our assessments consider both strengths and areas of need, providing a balanced picture that guides practical support strategies. For learning disorders—such as those in reading, writing, or math (i.e., dyslexia, dysgraphia, or dyscalculia)—the assessment highlights specific skill gaps while also identifying areas of resilience that can be built upon.

One of the most important outcomes of a psychoeducational assessment is a tailored set of recommendations. These may include strategies for home and school, suggested accommodations such as extra time or technology support, and referrals to specialized programs or therapies. Our goal is to ensure every client has a clear, practical roadmap for moving forward.

Assessments are available for children, adolescents, and adults. For students, results can inform Individualized Program Plans (IPPs), special education services, and targeted interventions. For adults, assessments may clarify lifelong challenges, provide documentation for accommodations in post-secondary education or employment, and open doors to more effective coping strategies.

What sets Southside Psychology apart is our commitment to providing clear, actionable results quickly and efficiently. We understand that families and individuals don’t want to wait months for answers. That’s why our process is designed to deliver thorough assessments and feedback within a competitive timeframe—without compromising on quality.

We also believe that accessing answers shouldn’t come at an overwhelming cost. Our assessments are competitively priced to ensure that families receive the highest level of service and expertise at a fair rate. By combining affordability with professional thoroughness, we help make assessments accessible to those who need them most.

Take the next step today. If you or your child are struggling with attention, learning, or academic performance, a psychoeducational assessment can provide the clarity and direction you need. At Southside Psychology, we pride ourselves on being fast, effective, and competitively priced—helping you get the answers you need without unnecessary delays. Contact us today to book an assessment and move forward with confidence.

Meet Samantha

Welcome, and thank you for visiting. I’m Samantha O’Brien, a Registered Psychologist here at SouthSide Psychology. I understand how overwhelming it can feel to take the first step toward support—whether you’re a parent seeking help for your child, a teen navigating big emotions, or an adult facing life’s transitions. My goal is to create a warm, safe, and nonjudgmental space where you feel seen, heard, and supported. I believe in working collaboratively to build on your strengths and help you or your child move forward with greater confidence and resilience. I’m glad you’re here.

Samantha O’Brien, Registered Psychologist

Samantha O’Brien is a Registered Psychologist with extensive experience and education working with youth and young adults to offer both counseling and psychoeducational assessments. She has developed a passion for working with children, adolescents, and their families collaboratively to foster resilience, mental wellness, and a positive quality of life.

Samantha has experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and their families across a diverse range of settings, including school, home, and community. She completed practicum training at the McGill Psychoeducational and Counselling Clinic and a specialized school for youth with diverse needs. Samantha has worked with children and adolescents with different cognitive, learning, socio-emotional, and behavioural challenges (e.g. Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, Specific Learning Disorders, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, and OCD). Through her placements and work, Samantha has also supported parents, families, and adults facing a variety of life’s challenges.

Each client situation is unique, and Samantha strives to work collaboratively to support clients develop the tools they need to cope with challenges in their lives. Samantha applies evidence-based therapeutic principles and strategies to her practice and takes on a systemic, strengths based approach. Samantha draws from training in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Systemic Therapy, Play Therapy, Attachment Theory, and Internal Family Systems. Samantha is always gaining new knowledge to grow and better support her clients. Through a compassionate and caring approach, Samantha provides a safe and nonjudgmental environment to help clients reach their full potential.

Samantha also offers specialized services in Brainspotting, Psychoeducational assessment, and NeurOptimal.