Assessment services

Cognitive and intellectual assessment

Standardised testing of intellectual and cognitive abilities to understand strengths and weaknesses — and how they affect learning, work and everyday life.

In short

A cognitive assessment evaluates intellectual and cognitive abilities — such as reasoning, working memory and processing speed — using standardised tests. Unlike a neuropsychological assessment, it doesn’t aim to diagnose brain conditions; instead it shows how a person’s cognitive profile affects everyday life, and what supports or strategies will help.

Common reasons for a cognitive assessment

  • Baseline cognitive profile — a reference point to compare against if there are concerns in future.
  • Understanding strengths and weaknesses — to make sense of school performance or guide employment pathways.
  • Informing treatment recommendations — tailoring therapy, study strategies or workplace supports.
  • Intellectual disability or giftedness — as part of a neurodevelopmental assessment (ages 6–25).

What we assess

  • Verbal reasoning and knowledge
  • Visual and non-verbal reasoning
  • Working memory
  • Processing speed
  • Attention (where relevant)
  • Adaptive functioning (where relevant)

What you receive

A written report that explains your cognitive profile in plain language, highlights strengths to build on, and sets out practical recommendations for home, school, study or work. Where the assessment is for a young person, recommendations can be shared with their school (with consent).

Cost and funding

You’ll receive an all-inclusive quote before you commit, based on our $240 hourly rate. Funding may be available through NDIS or private health insurance depending on your circumstances. Not sure whether you need a cognitive or a neuropsychological assessment? Start with a Clinical Intake Consultation.

Who you’ll see

Cognitive & Intellectual Assessment: common questions

Is a cognitive assessment the same as an IQ test?

An IQ (intellectual) test is usually at the core of a cognitive assessment, but we look beyond a single number — at the pattern of strengths and weaknesses across verbal reasoning, visual reasoning, working memory and processing speed, and how that pattern affects everyday life.

How is a cognitive assessment different from a neuropsychological assessment?

A cognitive assessment describes intellectual and cognitive abilities and how they affect everyday life. It doesn’t aim to draw diagnostic conclusions about brain conditions. A neuropsychological assessment is broader and investigates brain–behaviour relationships, for example after a brain injury or when dementia is suspected.

Can you assess for intellectual disability or giftedness?

Yes. Intellectual disability and giftedness assessments are available as part of our neurodevelopmental assessments for ages 6–25, and cognitive assessments are available for children, adolescents and adults.

Why would I want a baseline assessment?

A baseline gives a reference point. If there are concerns later — for example after an injury, illness or as you age — a repeat assessment can measure change objectively rather than relying on memory or impressions.

Talk to us about a cognitive assessment

Send a short enquiry — no referral needed. We’ll recommend the right service, explain costs and funding, and confirm the next available appointment.

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