A neuropsychologist is a specialised area of psychology involving undertaking postgraduate training in the relationship between brain function and cognition (thinking skills e.g. memory, attention, problem-solving etc).

A neuropsychological assessment identifies what someone is good at and what they might struggle with. This can then be used to put together an individualised treatment program to support and improve any areas of weakness. Neuropsychological assessment can also help with diagnosing different conditions such as specific learning disorders and ADHD. If you are unsure whether neuropsychological assessment is necessary, please contact Cassie to discuss further.

Only psychologists that hold a masters in 'Clinical Neuropsychology' by the Psychology Board (APHRA) hold the relevant expertise to conduct comprehensive neuropsychological assessments.

The assessment typically requires 2-3 hours, but can be broken up into smaller components if required.

Assessments involve 3 components. The first part involves a 1-hour interview to discuss your child's background history and any concerns you may have. The second part is the assessment itself which involves pen and paper type tasks and possibly some computer-based tasks and standardised questionnaires. Children do tend to enjoy the assessment component and the one-on-one attention. The third part is the 1-hour feedback session to discuss the findings and recommendations. Following the feedback appointment, you will be provided with a written report outlining the results as well as the recommendations discussed.

Medicare rebates are available for intake and feedback sessions for clients under a Mental Health Care Plan which can be obtained from your GP. The Medicare rebate for psychologists is currently set at $93.35 (as of 2024), leaving a gap payment that needs to be covered out of pocket. Please note that we do not have HICAPS facilities so you will need to claim your own private health insurance and Medicare rebates manually and pay all gap fees out of pocket. Unfortunately, neuropsychological assessment is not covered under Medicare yet, so it is a full fee payable service.

The initial intake consultation for an assessment is $250 which includes a 60 minute consultation (and review of previous reports and reading/liaising with informants). Following consults/services are billed at $200 per hour (under the APS recommended fee of $300 per hour). Cassie's assessment and reports are charged at $200 per hour. Therefore, the total price will differ depending on the referral question, report requirements, assessment length and subsequent liaison required (e.g. contacting other health professionals, school, care team etc). A comprehensive assessment and report can take anywhere from 5-10 hours of service in total. A quote will be provided at the initial consultation to give some guidance.

No, you do not need a referral from another professional to access neuropsychological services.