About
Professional Assessment
I’m an HCPC registered psychologist. You can look me up on the HCPC Register as Deborah Finn, PYL 18480. I’ve been working as a psychologist for over 30 years. I have 20 years experience of SpLD assessment work. I keep up to date with the latest research and requirements of bodies like SASC, who set and monitor standards for SpLD assessment.
People’s difficulties present in different ways and you might think your difficulties are not typically dyslexic. Some people learn to cope quite well on the surface, but they have to work hard just to keep up.
As an assessor I don’t just look at test results. I look at how your life experiences have shaped how you cope and I make sense of that alongside the test results. I understand that it’s not easy being tested on things you struggle with. I recognise that you’re a whole person with strengths and skills that go a lot broader than just reading and writing!
Fair fees
My fees are set at a rate that I think is fair for my qualifications and experience. These fees are lower than many you will see from other providers. The assessment is comprehensive. It covers cognitive function and the core literacy skills of word reading, reading comprehension and spelling. I look out for difficulties with visual and phonological processing. I take account of additional factors such as English as an additional language, educational disruption or disadvantage, any secondary impacts of anxiety or low mood, and anything else that might be affecting you in the assessment. My professional reports meet all required standards for accessing support in the workplace or in study, following SASC guidelines.
Dyscalculia
Do you have long-term problems with numerical work? Does it seem out of line with everything else? Have you had proper teaching and made an effort with numerical work? If this might have an impact on your future in work or study, we can look at this alongside the general SpLD assessment.
ADHD and ASC
I can offer an educational screening for ADHD or ASC. This is not a diagnostic assessment but it can give useful guidance to universities about support needs while you are waiting for a full clinical assessment. Not all universities accept educational screening recommendations. The screening is usually conducted in a separate appointment and costs an extra £100.
Dyspraxia and Visual Stress
I don’t offer dyspraxia assessments as they should be conducted by a medic or an occupational therapist. Assessments of visual processing are best conducted by a behavioural optometrist. I do take these factors into account as part of a rounded assessment of your areas of difficulty or support needs.