What does neuropsychological assessment involve?

• A full neuropsychological assessment usually takes about three hours, which includes a comprehensive clinical interview and cognitive testing. 

• Clinical interview is used to gain an understanding of the client's background, risk factors for cognitive impairment, as well as address any concerns and answer any questions the client may have. 

• The "testing" part of the sessions involves "paper and pencil" type tasks - but there is no "pass or fail"! The tests identify the areas of the brain potentially affected by any damage and how such changes may impact day-to-day functioning. 

• Tests examine areas such as: learning and memory, attention and concentration, speed of thinking, language and visuo-spatial abilities, and executive functions. 

• Depending on assessment purpose, the assessment might also include structured interview to discuss alleged offending behaviours, investigate issues surrounding decision making capacity, or establish fitness to plead.

• The outcomes of the assessment then inform a neuropsychological report that addresses referral needs. 

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Reasons someone might seek neuropsychological assessment:

• Assisting with diagnosis of an underlying condition (e.g., intellectual disability, acquired brain injury, learning disorder) and to assess the impact of potential disorders on daily functioning.

• Delineating between potential organic cognitive impairment and symptoms of psychiatric illness or other acute factors.

• Identifying individual cognitive strengths and weaknesses.

• Tracking change over time, such as recovery from a stroke or brain injury, progression of a condition, or response to treatment.

• Receiving strategies to support rehabilitation goals, returning to work, or returning to study.

• Educating treatment providers, caregivers, and family members.

• Supporting applications for NDIS supports, Disability Support Pension (DSP), and / or guardianship.

• Identifying the impact of potential cognitive impairment on offending behaviours. 

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For more information about different types of assessment, visit the Services page