Neuropsychological Assessments | NQ Neuropsychology

Neuropsychological assessment encompasses evaluation of general level of cognitive functioning (i.e., IQ) as well as literacy, perceptual ability, processing speed, learning ability, verbal and visual memory functioning and executive skills (problem solving/judgement/planning/reasoning abilities etc.) Sometimes it is also necessary and relevant to include an assessment of the person’s personality/emotional wellbeing, as well as functional ability.

The purpose of assessments varies for each individual case. The following are some common reasons for referral:

Decision making capacity

Neuropsychological assessments address decision making capacity across health, lifestyle/accommodation, finances and legal domains; testamentary capacity including capacity to prepare a Will or EPOA; QCAT application for Guardianship.

To assist with diagnosis

Neuropsychological assessments can often tease out type of dementia (eg., Alzheimer’s Disease versus Fronto-temporal dementia); address whether a child satisfies diagnostic criteria for Learning Disorder and/or Neurodevelopment Disorder(s); address Intellectual Disability; and whether a person presents with a Neurocognitive Disorder.

Baseline assessment and Management advice

Neuropsychological assessments are essential in providing a baseline assessment for a person in the initial stages in their recovery (eg., 6 months post traumatic brain injury or stroke and outline the individual’s pattern of strengths and weaknesses, and severity of impairment if relevant. The results of a neuropsychological assessment can then help inform doctors and other health providers in terms of appropriate strategies and treatment/management advice.

Monitoring of recovery post cerebral event

Baseline and serial assessments assist in addressing important matters like returning to work, returning to driving, and capacity for independent living.

To assist with an application or review

Neuropsychological reports are often used to assist individuals in their application for NDIS, disability pension, QCAT application and TPD.

Medicolegal, litigation, capacity to plead or give evidence

Neuropsychological assessments are often used in medicolegal settings for a host of reasons which might include personal injury claims, capacity to plead or give evidence and Total and Permanent Disability insurance claims etc.

Head injury assessment including recurrent concussion

Neuropsychological assessments are integral in confirming whether a person has suffered a traumatic brain injury and whether it is of a mild, moderate or severe degree. This is particularly relevant to sporting professionals/athletes with the potential for repeated concussion injuries and Defence members post blast injuries.

Suitability for Deep Brain Stimulation Surgery

Neuropsychological assessment is paramount in the workup of an individual in terms of determining suitability to proceed with Deep Brain Stimulation Surgery.

A neuropsychological assessment may be helpful when a person is suspected or known to have suffered a brain injury and changes in thinking or behaviour have been recognized.

The people with the following conditions are often referred for assessment:

Traumatic Brain Injury
Dementia – Alzheimer’s Disease, Vascular Dementia, Fronto-Temporal Dementia, Huntington’s Disease and Early Onset Dementia.
Stroke
Psychiatric Disorders (Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia)
Drug and Alcohol Disorders
Intellectual Disability
Giftedness
Multiple Sclerosis
Epilepsy
Brain Infections (Meningitis, Encephalitis),
Tumours

NQ Neuropsychology would like to acknowledge Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as Australia’s First People and Traditional Custodians. We pay our respects to Elders past and present and are committed to making a positive contribution to the wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people.

NQ Neuropsychology is committed to embracing diversity and eliminating all forms of discrimination in the provision of health services. We welcome all people irrespective of ethnicity, lifestyle choice, faith, sexual orientation and gender identity.