Comprehensive assessment and diagnostic services for toddlers, children, and teens.

A quick note about assessments:

Our assessments are designed to identify — or rule out — specific developmental or mental health differences. Sometimes, though, during an evaluation, we will identify markers or symptoms of conditions for which the assessment was not intended. If this happens, we will share the information with you and help build a plan.

AUTISM Assessment

Our private (non-BCAAN) autism assessment adheres to the Standards and Guidelines for Assessment and Diagnosis of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder in British Columbia. It includes:

  • A comprehensive developmental interview with parents or guardians (ADI-R)
  • A structured observation measure with your child (ADOS-2)
  • Cognitive assessment
  • Adaptive functioning interview
  • Developmental history review to guide treatment

Assessments for children under six are multidisciplinary, meaning the child must also meet with a paediatrician and speech pathologist. Akira’s in-office speech pathologist is available for your child’s speech assessment, and you can request a referral to a paediatrician from your family doctor.

We have clinicians fluent in Spanish, Mandarin, and Cantonese.

Psycho-educational Assessment

School staff, doctors, or parents typically request Psycho-educational assessments. This assessment helps identify learning disorders or attention, behavioural, or emotional factors impacting achievement or daily skills.

Even if a child does not have a diagnosis, this assessment can identify strengths and areas for additional support.

Teens previously assessed often require reassessment before finishing secondary school or starting post-secondary. Assessment supports transition planning and helps identify accommodations and services for which the student is eligible in college or university. A psycho-educational assessment can also determine eligibility for Community Living BC funding as an adult (e.g. for autistic students).

These components can be included in the assessment; however, it is tailored to your child’s needs and your referral questions.

  • Cognitive functioning (I.Q.). This may include evaluation for giftedness.
  • Memory
  • Executive functioning
  • Academic performance (reading, writing, mathematics)
  • Listening comprehension
  • Oral expression
  • Behaviour
  • Social skills
  • Emotional functioning (evaluation for anxiety or mood disorders)
  • Attention (e.g. evaluation for ADHD)
  • Adaptive skills (e.g. daily living skills)

The psycho-educational assessment includes a comprehensive written report outlining the procedures, results, and detailed recommendations for school and home.

CONSULTATION

Not sure if your child needs an assessment? Looking for a reassessment or second opinion? A one to two-hour consultation meeting helps families determine their needs and create an action plan for home or school.

SOCIAL SKILLS GROUP

Akira Clinic is pleased to offer children and youth a place to connect, learn social skills, and build confidence and self-advocacy.

And you don’t have to be a client to join!

Facilitated by Dr. Darcie-Anne Bailey, our Social Group is for all neurodivergent children and youth. Sessions are organized for optimal experience by factoring age, need, and gender identity.

Complete with games, arts, crafts, and music, Dr. Bailey works with attendees to improve conversational skills, emotional expression, calming, problem solving, and respect for diverse ideas.

 

For any questions, please get in touch or visit FAQs