VPC provides cognitive assessments for young people aged 10 years and over, and adults, at our Essendon clinic in Melbourne. Assessments are completed by a registered psychologist and provide a detailed understanding of an individual’s thinking and learning abilities.
A cognitive assessment looks at areas such as memory, attention, problem-solving, language, processing skills and other aspects of cognitive functioning. It can help identify areas of cognitive strength as well as areas where additional support may be helpful.
Following the assessment, you will receive feedback and a comprehensive written report outlining the findings and tailored recommendations.
What Does a Cognitive Assessment Involve?
A cognitive assessment looks at how a person thinks, learns and processes information across a range of areas. Rather than relying on a single overall score, the assessment provides a profile of cognitive strengths and areas of difficulty.
Areas assessed may include:
- Verbal reasoning and understanding,
- Visual and non-verbal reasoning,
- Working memory,
- Processing speed
- Problem-solving and learning abilities
- Attention and concentration
The areas assessed will depend on the person’s age, circumstances and the reason for the assessment.
The psychologist considers the results as a whole to identify patterns of strengths and difficulties and to understand what these may mean for learning, everyday functioning or future support.
Cognitive Assessments for Young People and Adults
VPC currently provides cognitive assessments for individuals aged 10 years and over.
There are many reasons someone may benefit from a cognitive assessment. It may help to better understand learning or academic difficulties, clarify cognitive strengths and weaknesses, assist with educational or workplace planning, or provide information to support further psychological, educational or clinical or healthcare decisions.
For young people, recommendations may assist parents and schools in understanding how the young person learns and where additional support may be beneficial.
For adults, an assessment may provide greater understanding of cognitive strengths and difficulties and assist with recommendations relevant to study, work, therapy or everyday functioning.
Following the assessment, the psychologist provides feedback and a comprehensive written report explaining the findings and recommendations.
The Cognitive Assessment Process and Fees
The cognitive assessment process usually involves three appointments, followed by a comprehensive written report.
Session 1 – Initial Interview: $200, 50 minutes
The psychologist discusses the reason for the assessment and gathers relevant background information.
Session 2 – Cognitive Assessment: $450, 90 minutes
Standardised cognitive assessment measures are completed with the psychologist.
Session 3 – Feedback Session: $150, 50 minutes
The psychologist discusses the assessment findings and recommendations with you.
Comprehensive Report: $450
Total Assessment Cost: $1,250
The written report outlines the assessment findings and may include recommendations to support learning, daily functioning, therapy, school, work or further healthcare needs.