Q What therapies are offered and what is the cost of these?
The Psychologists are paid by the school and there is no cost involved for assessments or therapy. The Occupational Therapist, Speech Therapist and Remedial Therapist work privately and will discuss the cost of assessments and therapy with the involved parents.
Q What is included in a subject choice assessment?
A Subject choice assessment will include an aptitude test, a personality test, an interest questionnaire, scholastic achievement, as well as qualitative information obtained from the learner. It is a very comprehensive assessment and compares with the best offered outside of school.
Q Should I take my child for a second assessment?
It is not recommended that a child is taken for a second assessment within a year of the initial assessment as many of the test measures used are similar or the same, which may lead to invalid results.
Q What information is shared regarding therapy?
No information will be shared with the staff or parents without permission, unless the specific learner or other individual(s) are in danger, has been exposed to abuse or when the learner is involved in illegal activities.
Q How does consent work regarding therapy/ who needs to give consent?
Parents' consent is required for a child younger than 12 to receive therapy.
Q Is there a difference between private practice therapy and therapy offered at a school?
Although the therapists at the school are equally capable and well-trained in comparison with private therapists, they do not work over holidays and consistency of therapy is impacted by the school timetable and calendar, as well as emergency cases. Therapy may therefore take place less regularly. Sessions missed on a given day may not be caught up.
Q What is the availability of psychologists?
Psychologists have set working hours and availability specific to their appointment and cannot accommodate consultations outside of these hours, or without an appointment. Availability should be discussed with the individual psychologist and appointments should be arranged accordingly.
Q How can an appointment be made with a psychologist?
Psychologists can be contacted via e-mail or can be phoned at school.
Q What is the difference between a counsellor, a play therapist and a psychologist?
A registered Psychologist registration requires a Masters degree and registration with the HPCSA. A Psychologist has a broader scope and receives more in-depth training in comparison with Registered Counsellors.
A Registered Counsellor requires an Honours degree as well as registration with the HPCSA.
Lay counsellors and life coaches are not registered with any boards and their practice and training is not regulated.
Play Therapists are not regulated by the HPCSA and can practise without formal training, supervision and registration with the HPCSA.
Q Which scenarios require limits on confidentiality?
Scenarios in which a breach of confidentiality is required:
- Emergency situations (risk to self or others)
- Statutory duty (required by law, eg reporting abuse)
- Court orders
- Illegal activities
