For Parents
I do not work directly for parents or carers and only accept requests for educational psychologist involvement from schools or settings. Please see below for suggestions of who to contact for advice and support.
In the first instance, parents and carers should discuss any concerns with their child’s school or setting’s SENCO. Parents who wish to seek support from an educational psychologist can consult the BPS Directory of Chartered Psychologists or the AHCIPPP directory. Parents can also contact their local SENDIASS service for information, advice and support about special educational needs and disabilities.
Why has an educational psychologist been asked to work with my child?
I may be asked to work with your child to help teachers to understand their learning, development, or wellbeing more clearly. My role is to support the school and others to think more clearly about what is happening, what is working, and what may help next.
Can parents or carers contact you directly about their child?
I do not currently work directly for parents or carers. I would encourage parents to speak to their child’s teacher or school SENCO in the first instance.
Do you provide support in relation to SEND tribunal proceedings?
No. I do not provide support in relation to SEND tribunals.
Is the work you offer the same as therapy or counselling?
No, I am not a therapist or a counsellor. Any individual work with children and young people may draw upon therapeutic principles, including tools from approaches such as personal construct theory, solution-focused brief therapy, or acceptance and commitment therapy. This would be discussed and agreed during the initial consultation.
Will you work directly with my child?
My involvement will typically start with an initial consultation involving key adults to develop a shared understanding of your child’s strengths and needs. We may agree some individual educational psychology work following this consultation, for example a meeting with your child to gain their views about education, or some assessment work to explore their approach to learning.
Do you diagnose autism or ADHD?
Educational psychologists are not qualified to give medical diagnoses. Parents and carers should speak to the school SENCO or their GP about local assessment pathways.
Do you assess children for specific learning difficulties such as dyslexia?
I do not offer standalone assessments for children and young people to diagnose specific learning difficulties such as dyslexia or dyscalculia. My work focuses on understanding children’s strengths and needs and supporting inclusive practice, regardless of diagnosis.
How is confidentiality handled?
Confidentiality is handled in line with professional and legal standards. I practise in accordance with the Health and Care Professions Council standards of conduct and the ethical guidance of the British Psychological Society. Information is stored and processed in line with data protection law and guidance from the Information Commissioner’s Office.