Stars Psychology - Assessments for children and adolescents

Get to know Stars Psychology - Assessments for children and adolescents

From Stars Psychology - Assessments for children and adolescents's website.

• Our approach

  Stars Psychology specialises in diagnostic assessment to help parents and teachers understand children and adolescents' learning and behavioural strengths and needs. Sessions use standardised, evidence-based assessment tools tailored to each child's age and presenting concerns, whether investigating learning disabilities, cognitive abilities, attention difficulties, autism or school readiness. The team works collaboratively to gather comprehensive information—typically involving parent interviews, direct child assessment, and sometimes teacher input—to produce detailed reports with findings and personalised recommendations. These assessments are designed to give families and schools the information needed to support each child's unique profile.

• Working with families

  The practice actively involves parents throughout the assessment process, beginning with a comprehensive parent interview that forms a core part of every diagnostic assessment. Parent questionnaires and observations are incorporated to ensure a complete understanding of your child's needs, and the final report includes tailored recommendations designed to guide how you and your child's school can best support them. Contact with the practice to discuss findings and recommendations is also encouraged as families work to implement the suggestions.

• Meet the team

  The Stars Psychology team comprises experienced educational and developmental psychologists, including board-approved supervisors Yasotha V and Cathy Catroppa, as well as psychologist Janice Beddom. All team members bring over 20 years of experience working across various settings with children and adolescents. They are dedicated to understanding and supporting the unique learning and behavioural needs of young people, with offices based across Melbourne (Carlton, Caulfield and Yarraville) to provide accessible services for families.

• Your first visit

  At the first appointment, the process varies depending on the assessment type, but typically begins with a comprehensive parent interview to understand your child's development, strengths and concerns. Your child then participates in the direct assessment session using age-appropriate standardised tools—for example, cognitive tests, literacy and numeracy measures, or autism-specific diagnostic tools. Additional information is often gathered from teachers through questionnaires to provide a full picture of your child's functioning across settings. A detailed written report is prepared following the appointment, which includes results, any diagnosis if relevant, and tailored recommendations to support your child at home and school.