In-person Gifted Assessment
Recognizing Exceptional Potential in Children and Youth
NO WAIT LIST | Insurance accepted
What is a Gifted Assessment?
A gifted assessment is a psychological evaluation designed to determine whether a child or adolescent meets the criteria for intellectual giftedness. These assessments are often used to help qualify for specialized educational programs, including gifted classes, enrichment tracks, and accelerated learning opportunities.
Standardized cognitive profiling to evaluate intellectual ability
Evaluation of problem-solving and innovative thinking patterns
Identifying unique abilities and addressing any challenges
Identifies strengths, supports academic enrichment.
Who Should Consider a Gifted Assessment?
A gifted assessment may be helpful for children, adolescents, or adults who show advanced abilities but also experience challenges that aren’t well understood or supported. It helps clarify cognitive strengths, learning styles, and emotional needs, ensuring abilities are recognized while supports are appropriately tailored.
What's Included in a Gifted Assessment at McDowall?
A gifted assessment is a comprehensive process designed to understand cognitive strengths while also considering emotional, behavioural, and learning factors.
Clinical interview and developmental history
A detailed discussion of learning, behaviour, emotional functioning, strengths, challenges, and relevant educational or life history.
Standardized cognitive testing
Assessment of intellectual abilities (such as reasoning, problem-solving, processing speed, and working memory) to identify areas of advanced functioning.
Academic or learning screening
Evaluation of academic skills to understand how cognitive strengths translate into learning and performance.
Social-emotional and behavioural measures
Screening for factors such as anxiety, attention, emotional regulation that may impact functioning.
Feedback and recommendations
A review of results with parents or individuals, including guidance for enrichment, accommodations, and next steps.
Understanding the Full Picture of Gifted Assessment
Our Gifted Assessment examines multiple layers of psychological functioning
Discovering the Layers of Giftedness
Our gifted assessments go beyond IQ scores. We evaluate multiple layers of psychological and cognitive functioning to understand a child’s strengths, needs, and potential for enrichment or acceleration.
Emotional & Psychological Roots
We explore emotional intensity, sensitivity, perfectionism, and self-awareness traits often linked with gifted individuals that impact social-emotional development and well-being.
Cognitive & Neurological Patterns
We assess advanced thinking, reasoning, problem-solving, and memory skills. This helps identify exceptional intellectual ability and how the child processes complex information.
Social & Behavioural Functioning
This includes peer relationships, communication style, leadership qualities, and adaptability. We look at how the child interacts in social and learning environments.
How Can Gifted Assessment Supports
At McDowall, your assessment is customized to your unique concerns and goals.
Clarifies strengths and abilities
Guides appropriate supports and enrichment
Reduces misunderstanding or mislabelling
Why Choose McDowall?
Our goal is not just to assess but to help you understand yourself and take action toward better mental health.
- Clarifies complex or overlapping symptoms to understand what’s really going on
- Uses evidence-based methods and DSM-5 criteria to ensure accurate diagnosis
- Considers the whole person, including emotional, cognitive, behavioural, and life context
- Provides clear, practical recommendations to guide treatment, supports, or accommodations
- Offers careful, ethical diagnosis only when criteria are clearly met
Getting started with Gifted Assessment
We take comprehensive approach to evaluating your
physical and psychological concerns.
Book Assessment Consultation
Contact us to book an appointment that works for you.
Complete Assessment Intake Process
Complete consent form and intake assessment before your appointment.
Attend Your Assessment Appointment
Attend in-person or virtually to begin your private, assessment session.
How soon can I get an appointment of gifted assessment?
We do our best to book assessments in timely manner. Our intake team will provide an estimated timeline after reviewing your intake information.
How long does gifted assessment?
Depending on the assessment, it will take 3 to 4 hours.
Our psychological assessments covered by insurance?
Yes, psychological assessments are often covered by insurance, depending on your plan. Coverage varies, so we recommend checking with your provider for details.
How much does a gifted assessment cost?
Assessment fees vary depending on the type, complexity, and time required. A fee estimate outline will be provided before services begin.
Is a deposit required to book?
Yes. A deposit is typically required to secure an assessment appointment. Details will be provided during the booking process.
Can I book a virtual assessment?
No, we only offer in-person assessments.
In-Person Gifted Assessments for Children & Youth in Ontario
A Gifted Assessments can be conducted in-person in Greater Toronto Area.
Contact our office to book an assessment consultation.