Dyslexia Assessment for Children & Adults

A dyslexia assessment at Lycali consists of a comprehensive, structured evaluation using standardised, evidence-based assessment tools, aligned with current SASC (SpLD Assessment Standards Committee) guidance.

This may include measures such as the WIAT-III UK, WRAT-5, and cognitive assessments including the WISC-V (children) or WAIS-IV (adults).

These assessments explore underlying cognitive processing (e.g. working memory, processing speed), alongside literacy attainment including reading, spelling, and written expression, to provide a clear, evidence-based understanding of an individual’s learning profile and whether findings are consistent with dyslexia.

All assessments at Lycali are delivered by fully qualified clinicians, including Specialist Dyslexia Assessors who hold a Level 7 qualification and a current Assessment Practising Certificate (APC).

We do not use trainees or non-clinical staff to carry out diagnostic assessments. This ensures clinical integrity, consistency, and reports that are suitable for use within educational, workplace, and professional contexts.

Before your appointment, you may have completed our online screening questionnaire.

Our initial screening questionnaire is a non-diagnostic tool used for information-gathering and does not replace a full, standardised assessment.

If the assessment is for a child, a questionnaire will also be sent to their school or educational setting (where applicable), so we can understand how they are presenting in that environment.

You will also be asked to provide a developmental history.

This information helps us build a clear picture of any long-standing learning differences associated with Dyslexia.

This will include information about:

• Early development and language acquisition

• Past medical and educational history

• Developmental milestones

• Reading, spelling, and writing development

• School, work, or learning experiences over time

• Family history of learning differences

This information is essential in helping the clinician understand how difficulties may have developed over time and ensures a thorough assessment.

We understand that completing pre-assessment paperwork for a Dyslexia assessment can feel overwhelming.

At Lycali, we can offer additional support to help you gather and organise the information required prior to your assessment. This may include:

• Talking through forms with you step-by-step

• Helping you reflect on developmental history and current needs

• Supporting you to provide clear and relevant examples

• Assisting verbally if completing written forms feels difficult

This support can be provided via a consultation session and is particularly helpful for individuals who may find written expression, recall, or organisation challenging.

Please note, this is an additional service offered at an hourly rate, which will be discussed and agreed with you at the time of booking.

During the assessment, the assessor will meet with you or your child to carry out a clinical observation and complete a range of standardised, evidence-based assessment tools.

These assessments are designed to explore underlying cognitive processes associated with dyslexia, such as:

• Phonological processing

• Working memory

• Processing speed

• Rapid naming

• Literacy attainment (reading, spelling, writing)

This structured assessment process allows the clinician to build a comprehensive understanding of the individual’s learning profile and determine whether findings are consistent with dyslexia.

The appointment usually lasts 3 hours, depending on the individual and assessment needs.

It can be conducted face-to-face or, where appropriate, online, in line with clinical guidance and the suitability of specific assessment tools.

Following the assessment, you will be provided feedback.

During this session, the assessor will:

• Discuss the findings of the assessment

• Explain whether the diagnostic criteria for Dyslexia are met

• Provide recommendations and next steps

You will also receive a detailed written report within 2-3 weeks outlining the assessment process, findings, and recommendations.

Following your assessment for Dyslexia, we will guide you through the most appropriate next steps based on your individual needs.

Post-Diagnostic Support:

We offer individual psychoeducation sessions, designed to support both individuals and families following a diagnosis of dyslexia. These sessions can help you to:

• Understand dyslexia and how it presents for you or your child

• Develop practical strategies for reading, writing, and learning

• Support emotional wellbeing and confidence

• Manage associated challenges such as processing speed or working memory differences

Education & Workplace Support:

Your assessment report can be used to support access to appropriate adjustments in education and the workplace. This may include:

• School and college support (e.g. access arrangements, reasonable adjustments, or informing an EHCP where applicable)

• Workplace needs assessments, helping to identify reasonable adjustments and supports within employment

• Advocacy, where we can support you in understanding your report and communicating your needs effectively to schools, colleges, or employers

Our reports are written to a high clinical standard using SASC guidance, ensuring they can be used to evidence need and support meaningful, practical adjustments.