Dr. Melanie Vanier, C.Psych.

Interests and Approach

I am a registered psychologist, specializing in comprehensive assessments for children and youth (ages 2 to 16). I have a particular interest in assessment for children with known or suspected learning disabilities (LD), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), early delays in development, autism (autism spectrum disorder), and intellectual developmental disorder (intellectual disability).

Many of the children I see for assessment are having significant challenges meeting expectations for a range of reasons. These may include struggles with self-regulation of attention, emotions, or behaviour. Other children may be experiencing academic challenges, or difficulties due to developmental, social, or communication differences. Often, it is a combination of these and other factors underlying the concerns. In my assessment work, I strive to obtain an in-depth understanding of each child's profile, which includes their specific strengths, developmental stage, experiences, and needs. I work collaboratively with key people in the child's life, including their family, educators, and other members of the care team. Information obtained from the assessment can help develop a plan with detailed, practical recommendations to support the child in building skills going forward.   

Training and Experience

My formal education consists of an undergraduate degree in psychology, a Master’s degree in applied developmental psychology, and a Ph.D. in child clinical psychology (University of Guelph). Toward the end of graduate training, I was on staff as a clinician at McMaster Children’s Hospital. I completed my pre-doctoral residency in child clinical psychology at the IWK Health Centre, and subsequently provided assessment services with IWK Health for much of my career. While on staff at the IWK, I completed autism diagnostic assessments for young children. I also provided assessment and consultation services for concerns related to learning, developmental delays, attention, and social and emotional development.

After practicing in Halifax for many years, I feel incredibly fortunate to call PEI home and to continue my work with children here on the Island.