Consultations - Learning about Development Issues, Supports,

Consults are the step beyond any psychology assessment and are for parents, carers, teachers, and tutors, as well as adults with learning difficulties. You don't need to have been a client of Bookmark Clinic to access this service.

A consultation is a discussion where you can ask about learning and development issues, or supports and strategies. You don't need to be a past client to access this service. We have worked with hundreds of families and educators and can offer ideas, guidance, reassurance, and be a source of support during difficult times. 

Depending on what you'd like to talk about, we generally suggest that younger children (under 12) don't participate so that parents can speak freely. However, it can often be helpful for older children to participate in the conversation and share their own ideas and reflections. If you're not sure, ask us about it when you book. 

Adults who want to use a consult to discuss their own learning challenges are warmly welcome to bring a support person to the session.

A consultation can point you in the right direction at transition points (e.g. the beginning of high school or the beginning of tertiary studies). It can also be helpful if learning challenges intensify and you're looking for new strategies or programs. 

A consult can help with questions such as:

•  'these are the things we are doing to support our child's learning - is there anything we're missing?'
•  'our school is providing this program for our child - is it a good fit for what they need?'
• 'we have heard about this program, but it is expensive and we are not sure if it is evidence based - is it the best way forward?'
• 'we are thinking about changing schools but it is a big step and we want to talk it over with someone independent before we decide'

Technology supports include dictation, 'read aloud' functions on your computer, and AI. The right tech can be life changing for children with learning difficulties, especially from middle primary school. We can use a consult to show you what options might be helpful for your situation. Bring in your devices and we can help you get set up. 

Many excellent evidence-based programs are available for parents to use at home with their children. They are designed to build skills such as handwriting, reading, and maths. We can use a consult to help sort through the options to identify the program that is the best fit for you child and family. We can use the session to get you set up and orientated. Future sessions can be used to trouble shoot and fine tune what you're doing. We can meet as many times as you need to help you stay on track and monitor progress.     

We work with children and adults to show them strategies that make learning more efficient and successful. 

The fee is $150 for a 50 minute session plus follow up email with links and resources.