Find an Educational Psychologist

Dyslexia, Dyscalculia and other SpLD’s can be assessed and diagnosed by both Specialist Assessors with a Level 7 SpLD qualification and APC status (Assessment Practicing Certificate), and by Educational Psychologists.

Dyslexia South is run by Dana Murphy-Francis and Tim Francis. Dana is an experienced Speech and Language Therapist and a Specialist Assessor (APC). Dana undertakes a clinical assessment using an assessment similar to that made by an educational psychologist. Tim is a retired Educational Psychologist who is still involved in the practice in the background, but is no longer seeing clients.

Our fixed fee assessment provides a full diagnostic assessment for those who are concerned about possible underachievement, or are concerned that specific learning difficulties such as Dyslexia and Dyscalculia may be affecting their academic or work performance. This is a thorough clinical assessment, but does not include a school visit with observations. This assessment is not suitable for complex legal or tribunal cases, however would be useful evidence towards an education health and care plan.

An assessment with Dana can also identify if there are any co-occurring language difficulties. Up to 55% of people with Dyslexia and other Specific Learning difficulties also have a language impairment so her dual specialism is helpful in these cases.

Sometimes, an assessment and report from an educational psychologist is required, for instance as part of court proceedings. However, most assessments are undertaken to provide a diagnosis with the intention of informing intervention. If your case is more complex you may require the services of an educational psychologist, in this case we would recommend ACHIPPP.

Please email us to further discuss your needs.

Email: dyslexiasouth@outlook.com

Fixed Fee Assessment

With whom: Dana Murphy-Francis

Cost: £695 (detailed report is included)

Where: Assessments take place remotely or in Shoreham-by-Sea.

Diagnostic educational assessment mainly using restricted tests only available to users with high level qualifications which covers:

  • Preliminary discussion and background information gathering

  • Taking of developmental history

  • Psychometric assessment using the Woodcock Johnson IV Test of Cognitive Abilities

  • Assessment of working memory

  • Assessment of processing speed

  • Assessment of phonological processing

  • Reading accuracy and efficiency assessments

  • Reading comprehension assessment

  • Reading speed measurement

  • Handwriting assessment under a number of different stressors

  • Spelling assessment

  • A standardised maths screen (if dyscalculia is a concern)

  • Informal measures to identify difficulties with number sense (if dyscalculia is a concern)

  • Standardised assessment of mathematics ability (if dyscalculia is a concern)

  • An evaluation of fine and gross motor coordination skills against DSM-5 criteria for DCD/Dyspraxia (over 16)

  • An evaluation of concentration and attention skills against DSM-5 criteria for Attention Deficit Disorder (over 16)

  • An evaluation of motor coordination if dyspraxia is suspected (under 16)

  • An evaluation of concentration and attention skills if concerns are raised (under 16)

  • An evaluation of social communication if concerns are raised

  • Identification of areas of specific weakness and strength

  • Identification of specific learning difficulties

  • Post assessment analysis with parents or adult client

  • Formulation of ways forward and outline intervention plan

  • Examination access arrangements will be made and included in the report

  • Full and comprehensive typed report e-mailed within 21 days for initial agreement. We can offer a seven-day emergency service for an additional £100 fee, prior agreement only

  • Hard copy of report signed and delivered by first class post if requested

  • Follow up telephone advice

How Long:
Three to four hours