Responding to School Difficulties for Children

We continue to receive a high number of requests for assessment of children with school difficulties. Well established research shows the importance of carrying out a comprehensive assessment that includes an examination of memory and executive functioning as well as intellectual functioning and academic achievement. In line with best practice, we have expanded our library of tests of memory and executive functioning, to include the WRAML (Wide Range Assessment of Memory and Learning) and the BRIEF (Behaviour Rating Inventory of Executive Functioning). Assessments for children experiencing difficulties at school are led by Dr Sarah Pollock. Please phone the Mt Gravatt Office on 3137 2011 or the Spring Hill Office on 3839 4400 to obtain more information about these assessments.

A recent internal review of Workers Compensation referrals over the last quarter has shown employers continue to grapple with the importance of Reasonable Management Action in managing behaviour and performance issues in the workplace. Whilst it is important to acknowledge the long established remarks from President Hall that 'management action does not have to be without blemish to be reasonable’ [2002] QIC 18 (23 April 2002); 170 QGIG ), it is also important to be mindful of the findings in the Kehl matter (QIC 23 (17 May 2002); 170 QGIG 93), highlighting the duty of care and higher expectations placed on managers regarding their actions where vulnerability in a staff member is known.

As part of best practice treatment for children and adults with Asperger’s Syndrome, Autistic Spectrum Disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Acquired Brian Injury and difficulties with social adjustment, PsyCare has adopted the latest research-based “Reading a Smile” treatment protocol developed by Dr Cristina Bornhofen and Dr Skye McDonald. These programs are delivered at PsyCare in individual and group formats. Emotion Perception Treatment Programs are led by Dr Lee Hearn and Dr Simone Baker. Please phone the Mt Gravatt Office on 3137 2011 or the Spring Hill Office on 3839 4400 to obtain more information about these programs.