Language support
Psychological assessment with language support.
For families who speak languages other than English, or are new to Australia, language can make it harder to find services, complete forms or navigate health and school systems.
We offer full language and interpreter support delivered by the National Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS National) and their Free Interpreting Service (FIS)*.
01 — ACCESSING ASSESSMENT
If you need help, English does not need to be a barrier.
WHERE THERE ARE CONCERNS
Assessment may be considered for difficulties with learning, reading, writing, maths, attention, behaviour, emotions, social communication, memory, thinking, development or school progress, or questions about giftedness.
ASSESSMENT HAS BEEN SUGGESTED
A teacher, school, GP, paediatrician or another professional may have recommended assessment, while it remains unclear what type is needed or how to arrange it.
02 — INTERPRETER SUPPORT
Professional interpreting can be part of the assessment process.
Intake & history appointments
An interpreter can assist with parent interviews, developmental history and other background information.
Important conversations
Interpreter support can also be used for consent, assessment planning and feedback.
Professional & confidential
BPA can arrange interpreters through Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS) National. TIS provides confidential professional interpreting, with credentialed interpreters used where available.
03 — FREE INTERPRETING
TIS National interpreting may be available at no cost*.
For eligible services at BPA, TIS National interpreting may be provided by the Free Interpreting Service (FIS) as long as you have a Medicare card. All you need to do is ask us to arrange a translator, we check eligibility and organise it.
*This relates to the cost of interpreting only. Eligibility criteria apply, see Free Interpreting Service (FIS) for more information. BPA’s usual assessment and appointment fees still apply.
04 — COMPLETING FORMS
There are different ways to get help with forms.
Browser translation
BPA’s forms are written in English. A web browser’s built-in translation function can be used to help read them.
Help from someone you trust
If comfortable, a family member, friend or community service may help with routine forms. Where possible, written answers should be provided in English.
If written forms are difficult
An extended intake appointment with a professional interpreter may be available so more information can be collected through discussion.
05 — LANGUAGE & ASSESSMENT
Language and cultural background are considered when planning assessment.
Understanding context
A child’s first language, English experience, previous schooling, time in Australia and cultural background may all be relevant.
Choosing methods carefully
Our team has experience working with professional interpreters and adapting assessment processes. We consider language and cultural factors when selecting assessment methods and interpreting findings.
06 — PLANNING THE ASSESSMENT
Assessment can be tailored to the question and context.
TAILORED TO THE REASON FOR REFERRAL
The assessment process is planned according to the concerns being explored, the questions needing to be answered, and the information likely to be most useful.
TAILORED TO LANGUAGE AND CONTEXT
Language, previous schooling, cultural background and your family’s communication needs are considered when deciding how information should be gathered and what assessment methods are appropriate.
DIAGNOSIS IS NOT ALWAYS THE GOAL
We recognise that some families have different cultural beliefs, preferences and goals around diagnosis. Assessment does not have to include diagnosis. Instead, it can help clarify a child’s strengths and difficulties, identify support needs and guide practical next steps.
07 — REPORTS & FEEDBACK
Reports are provided in English and can be explained with an interpreter.
Feedback
A professional interpreter can join the feedback appointment so the findings and recommendations can be explained, discussed and clarified.
Written report
BPA assessment reports are provided in English. Families wanting the report in another language can arrange translation after the assessment service is completed.
08 — USING THE REPORT
Our reports can help you to communicate your child’s needs in English.
School
Reports can be shared with a child’s school to explain findings and support discussion about adjustments, learning needs and other supports.
Health & services
Reports can also be provided to GPs, paediatricians, allied health professionals and other services.
Targeted reports
On request, BPA can prepare a targeted letter for a specific purpose such as school adjustments, another professional, a referral or an application for support.
Additional work is charged according to the professional time required.
09 — SPEAKING DIRECTLY IN YOUR LANGUAGE
Using an interpreter with us is not your only option.
Some families may prefer to work directly with a psychologist who speaks their language.
The Australian Psychological Society Find a Psychologist service can be used to search by language. Complete an initial search, then use Refine Results to select your preferred language.
10 – NEXT STEP
Start with the question you would like answered & the language support you need.
An enquiry can include the reason assessment is being considered, the family’s preferred language, and whether interpreter support is be needed.
After reviewing your enquiry, BPA can discuss the assessment process, available language support and likely fees before services proceed.
Depending on the complexity of your enquiry and if you need an interpreter to communicate with us, we may need to book an initial appointment to ensure we can communicate with you clearly.