Led by Dr Vicki Russ, Clinical Psychologist
At Tabla Psychology, we offer a specialist Learning Disability Diagnostic Assessment to help families understand the nature and extent of a young person’s difficulties with cognitive and adaptive functioning. This assessment is suitable for children and young people where there are significant concerns about global developmental delay, learning difficulties across multiple areas, and challenges with day-to-day independence and self-care.
Who carries out the assessment?
This assessment is conducted by Dr Vicki Russ, an experienced HCPC-registered Clinical Psychologist who specialises in neurodevelopmental and learning profiles. Dr Russ is skilled in working with children and young people with complex needs and provides clear, compassionate, evidence-based assessments to support families in planning next steps for education, therapy, and care.
What does the assessment involve?
A full diagnostic assessment for Learning Disability includes:
- Detailed developmental history – gathered through a parent interview and background questionnaires
- Cognitive testing – using standardised assessments to measure intellectual functioning (e.g. verbal reasoning, non-verbal problem-solving, working memory, and processing speed)
- Adaptive functioning assessment – using the ABAS-3 (Adaptive Behaviour Assessment System) to evaluate day-to-day skills such as communication, daily living, and socialisation
- Triangulation of information – from parents, school, and any previous assessments
- Feedback session – with a clear explanation of results and tailored recommendations
- Full diagnostic report – including whether the individual meets criteria forIntellectual Disability (also known as Learning Disability) under DSM-5 orICD-11 diagnostic frameworks
What is this assessment for?
This assessment helps to answer questions such as:
- Does my child meet criteria for a Learning Disability or Intellectual Developmental Disorder?
- What is my child’s cognitive profile, and how does it relate to their learning or support needs?
- What kind of school or educational setting is appropriate?
- What therapies, EHCP input, or social care support might be needed?
- How can I best support my child’s development at home?
The results may be used to support applications for:
- Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs)
- Specialist school placements
- Social care or respite support
- Accessing disability services or benefits (e.g. DLA or PIP)
Who is this assessment suitable for?
This assessment is appropriate for:
- Children or young people (typically age 5+) with significant, global learning difficulties
- Young people where there is uncertainty around whether a specific learning difficulty (like dyslexia) or a broader learning disability is present
- Families seeking a clear diagnostic formulation and guidance for long-term planning
Cost and structure
- £2500 (fixed fee, all inclusive)
- One 50-minute in-person assessment session with the child
- Developmental history and adaptive data collected remotely
- Final report provided within 6 weeks
