Why would I go through a screening?

An formal educational assessment is a time-consuming and expensive process and it is wise to begin with some kind of screening to find out if a formal assessment is indicated.

If a formal assessment is indicated, then it will include interviews and possibly psychoeducational testing to understand more fully your strengths and challenges for the process of learning.

While you are going through the process of an assessment, you can access resources that will help you be more successful in school. You can talk to a counsellor at Student Counselling Services to see if you are eligible for interim accommodation. There are also many strategies you can try out and, if they work for you, you can continue to benefit from these no matter the results of your assessment.

Where do I inquire about a screening?

MRU psychologists and clinical social workers at Student Counselling Services can discuss your options for screening and assessments.  Whatever the outcome of a screening, you may choose to work with a counsellor to address the challenges you are facing.

Family Doctors: Some general practitioners have expertise in ADHD, and they can do an  initial screening and make treatment recommendations. In any case, a doctor can refer you for an assessment with a psychiatrist, which is covered by Alberta Health Care.

A Mental Health nurse at Student Health Services can screen and discuss options for assessments.

You may want to consider a psycho-educational assessment with a private psychologist, which may be covered by a Health Plan. This type of assessment is a comprehensive analysis of various cognitive abilities such as working memory, processing speed, and other learning related functions.