Where Are the Best Places to Get a Professional Dyslexia Assessment Near Me?

This is Dyslexia Assessment Centre Canterbury

When you begin searching for a professional dyslexia assessment near me, it’s often because something hasn’t been adding up for a while.

Perhaps your child is bright but struggles more than expected with reading or spelling.

Perhaps you’re an adult who has always worked twice as hard to keep up, and now further study or workplace demands are bringing things to the surface.

Wherever you are on that journey, you’re not alone and clarity is often much closer than you think.

This guide walks you through the best places to get a professional dyslexia assessment, what to look out for, and how to choose the right specialist for you or your child.

1. Start with a Specialist Dyslexia Assessor

The most reliable and widely accepted route is to book with a specialist who is trained specifically in identifying dyslexia.

I offer assessments across Kent and Essex, as well as nationwide online assessments for those who prefer the convenience and comfort of staying at home.

What sets a specialist apart?

• Advanced qualifications — I hold an APC and have spent 23 years teaching and working as a SENCO.

• In-depth understanding of the education system — essential when advising on next steps.

• A holistic, strengths-based approach — dyslexia is about so much more than what’s tricky.

A specialist assessor ensures that your results are valid, recognised and accepted by schools, universities, and workplaces.

2. Educational Psychologists

Local authority or private Educational Psychologists also offer cognitive assessments, sometimes combined with literacy assessment.

They can be an excellent option, especially when a broader learning profile is needed. However, waiting lists can be long and reports vary in detail depending on the practitioner and local provision.

3. Dyslexia Assessment Centres

Across the UK, several centres provide in-person assessments. These can be ideal if you like a clinic-style environment or want access to multiple services in one place.

Benefits typically include:

• child-friendly settings

• multidisciplinary teams

• structured follow-up pathways

However, centres often have longer waiting times and higher fees.

4. Online Dyslexia Assessments (Recognised & Valid)

Online assessments, when conducted by a qualified specialist, are just as rigorous as in-person options.

This is especially helpful for adults balancing work or family life, or for children who feel more relaxed at home.

Many people are surprised to learn that:

• The process is identical to an in-person assessment

• You receive the same level of support and guidance

• Results are fully recognised by schools, universities and workplaces

If you live far from Kent and Essex, an online assessment still gives you direct access to the same expertise and service.

5. Why Screeners Are Not the Same

Schools often use screening tools and while these can highlight possible difficulties, they are not formal diagnostic assessments.

A screener cannot:

• diagnose dyslexia

• be used to secure exam access arrangements

• support university-based support

• explain the why behind the difficulties

A full diagnostic assessment is the only route that gives recognised, comprehensive evidence.

What Makes My Assessments Different?

Families and adults regularly tell me that the clarity and reassurance they receive is what makes the biggest difference.

Here’s what you can expect:

Fast, straightforward booking

• Assessments available within two weeks

• Reports delivered within 15 working days

• Fast-track options if you need answers sooner

Clear, accessible reports

My reports are written in everyday language, with:

• strength-based summaries

• detailed recommendations for school, home, or work

• personalised strategies that explain exactly what to do next

Support beyond the assessment

The assessment is only the beginning.

I continue to support clients through:

• coaching

• workplace guidance

• email support

• help navigating school conversations

You’re not left to figure it out alone.

How to Choose the Best Dyslexia Assessor Near You

Choosing the right assessor can feel overwhelming when you don’t know what to look for. Here are the essentials:

Check their qualifications — APC, specialist teacher status, or psychology credentials.

Ask about the report — Is it detailed? Strengths-based? Easy to understand?

Consider the aftercare — Will they support you after the assessment?

Look for a holistic approach — Difficulties matter but strengths matter just as much.

Trust how you feel — You should feel listened to, reassured, and guided.

If You Feel Unsure Where to Start..

When people search ‘dyslexia assessment near me’, they’re often anxious, unsure or overwhelmed.

If that’s you, I want you to know this:

You’re not alone.

Clarity is possible far sooner than you think.

You don’t need to know the system.

You don’t need to wait until things fall apart.

You don’t need to prove anything before getting help.

A good assessor will walk you through every step with compassion and expertise.

Next Steps

If you’re ready to explore an assessment or want to talk about what the process involves, you can find details here:

👉 www.thisisdyslexia.co.uk

Whether you’re in Kent, Essex or elsewhere in the UK, help is close.

And the moment you take the first step, clarity starts to unfold.