Cognitive assessment

A cognitive or neuropsychological assessment investigates a person's underlying abilities that impact their learning, academic potential and daily living skills. Cognitive functions include intellect, short and long-term memory, phonological skills, academic abilities, attention, executive function, processing speed and visuospatial skills.
Cognitive Assessments
A cognitive or neuropsychological assessment investigates a person's underlying abilities that impact their learning, academic potential and daily living skills. Cognitive functions include intellect, short and long-term memory, phonological skills, academic abilities, attention, executive function, processing speed and visuospatial skills. Everyone has different strengths and weaknesses, but sometimes certain weaknesses can hold someone back from showing their full potential at work or in school. An assessment will help determine areas of difficulty and help put in place support, adaptations and strategies where appropriate.
Assessments can diagnose:
Giftedness
Dyslexia
Dyscalculia
Dysgraphia
Developmental Coordination Disorder (Dyspraxia)
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Memory problems
General global learning difficulties
Dysgraphia and issues with handwriting
What happens as part of the assessment?
Clinical interview - understanding the main strengths and weaknesses.
Psychometric assessment - games, tests and puzzles on iPad and paper and pen.
Liaison with school or workplace - understanding the impact of difficulties on academic or work performance.
The psychology report outlines the assessment findings and makes tailored recommendations for school, work and home.
Feedback session - to discuss the report and its main findings and recommendations.
Examples of different types of support that can result from the assessment:
Compensatory strategies and coaching
Adaptation and changes to the environment
Teaching Assistant (TA) support in lessons
Specific educational interventions at school and home (e.g., extra phonics, maths, social skills training)
Adjustment in examinations ( e.g., extra time, rest breaks)
Neuro-rehabilitation (if appropriate and evidence-based).
Parent Coaching
Assessments from other health professionals
Input into or the initiation of Education Health Care Plan assessments
School/workplace visits to discuss findings and recommendations