The Atlas Clinic
Frequently Asked Questions
Some common queries about our assessments
The Atlas Clinic
FAQ’s
Do you conduct Autism / ADHD Assessments?
Yes, since the Autumn of 2024, our Autism & ADHD waiting list has opened. We offer a limited number of appointments each month. Autism / ADHD assessments typically consist of multiple appointments combining both virtual and in-person meetings. Please contact us to arrange and assessment.
Do I need a GP or other healthcare professional referral?
No. We accept self-referrals from parents/caregivers or adults seeking an assessment. Simply send us an email or enquiry through our website and we will gladly give you a call to discuss your concerns in more detail.
How long does a typical assessment take?
The duration of a psychological assessment varies depending on the type and complexity. Generally though it takes 2 hrs, with some additional time gathering information through phone calls.
How much does an assessment cost, and is it covered by insurance?
Costs vary based on the type and scope of the psychological assessment. Please see our Fees page to understand more. All our assessments are conducted by fully Chartered Clinical Psychologists and as such may be tax deductible. Please see Revenue for more information.
Who conducts the assessments at your clinic, what are their qualifications, and are reports accepted by other organisations (e.g., Department of Education, HSE).
The Atlas Clinic’s clinical director is Dr. Ian Kearney, a fully qualified and Chartered Clinical Psychologist with the Psychological Society of Ireland. As a psychological service we are committed to ensuring that all assessments are conducted by fully trained and qualified psychologists who have expertise in the areas of both psychometric assessment and neurodevelopmental conditions. As such, our reports are written with the highest of standards and are accepted by all relevant organisations including HSE, Dept of Education. To verify chartered membership, visit the Psychological Society of Ireland.
How do I prepare my child for an assessment, and are there any specific instructions to follow before the appointment?
We will provide you with specific instructions prior to the assessment, but generally we advise that children try and have a good night’s sleep, be well rested and have eaten prior to coming for their appointment.
Will the results of the assessment be shared with my GP or other healthcare providers / schools?
No. We will only ever release reports to those parents/caregivers who requested the assessment. Upon completion of the feedback, you can discuss the sharing of reports with your psychologist and with their permission you may freely share some or all of the report with the relevant organisation.
What age groups do you typically work with in your psychological assessments?
We provide psychological assessments for children, adolescents, and adults. While much of our work involves school-aged children, we also assess teenagers preparing for examinations and adults seeking clarity around learning differences, autism, ADHD, or cognitive functioning. Each assessment is tailored to the individual’s developmental stage, ensuring that recommendations are practical and relevant for home, school, university, or workplace settings.
Can you recommend the use of assistive technology, placement within a special school, application for reasonable accommodations (RACE), exemptions from foreign languages (i.e., Irish)?
Yes. Depending on the outcome of the assessment and that results meet certain criteria established by the Department of Education and Skills, our reports may advocate for the use of assistive technology for some children, as well as establish their entitlement to reasonable accommodations at state examinations or exemption from foreign languages.