Specific Learning Difficulty (SpLD) diagnostic assessments for adults
Dr Aimee Swithenbank is an experienced, freelance educational psychologist registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (see Practitioner Psychologist, registration number PYL32205). She provides Specific Learning Difficulty (SpLD) diagnostic assessments for adults who are encountering challenges in their workplace and/or everyday life and would like to know whether a SpLD may account for this.
The process involves a diagnostic interview, various academic tests and a cognitive assessment (using the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale, Fourth Edition). Immediately after the assessment, there’s a feedback meeting with Aimee to discuss the findings. Within three weeks of the assessment, you'll receive a written psychological report which summarises the results, provides an explanation of the presenting issues and gives general recommendations.
This is a broad-based assessment that can detect all five SpLDs:
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dyslexia
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dysgraphia
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dyscalculia
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dyspraxia
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ADHD (non-medical diagnosis)
General learning difficulties and issues with reduced processing speed and working memory can also be identified.
Reports can be used to support Access to Work applications. Assessments take place in our Colchester assessment room, or remotely if preferred.
To request an assessment or make an enquiry, please complete the Adult Enquiry Form.
If you are an adult, or are enquiring on behalf of an adult, who is still in education and supported by an Education, Health and Care Plan, we can consider you for an individual educational psychologist assessment which has a broader focus.
FAQs for adult assessments
How much does an assessment cost?
An adult SpLD assessment costs £800. This includes an individual assessment, feedback meeting and a written psychological report.
When do you take payment?
Full payment is required to make a booking.
Where does the assessment take place?
Our assessment room is in Colchester. Parking is available and directions/address are provided in the welcome pack. If you prefer, we can arrange a remote assessment.
How long is the assessment?
This can vary, but typically 2.5 hours. Breaks are offered as required.
Will a diagnosis be made?
Where there is evidence from within the assessment data, a formal diagnosis will be made. This assessment can detect all five SpLDs.
When will I receive the report?
You will receive the report three weeks after the assessment.
What can I expect from the report?
The report is a comprehensive document which details the findings, provides an explanation of the concerns and gives general recommendations
Can I submit the report with an Access to Work application?
Yes. If you are diagnosed with a SpLD following an assessment with Aimee, the SpLD diagnosis will be confirmed in writing in the psychological report and can be used as evidence of your disability for Access to Work applications.
Request an assessment
If you have any questions about the assessment process, please check our FAQs above.
For all other enquiries/to request an assessment, please submit the Adult Enquiry Form.
We aim to respond to enquiries within two working days. If you have not had a reply within this time, please check your junk mailbox.
