What is a neuropsychological assessment?
A Neuropsychological Assessment is an objective standardised way of assessing an individual’s cognitive abilities. Different conditions affect brain regions in various ways, which in turn differentially affect cognitive abilities. Cognitive assessment measures assess a persons functioning relative to their own expected performance levels, and also compare performances relative to comparable demographic groups to assess for strengths and weaknesses (or abnormalities).
Reasons for a neuropsychological assessment?
A & S Neuropsychologists specialize in conducting and effectively communicating the findings of neuropsychological assessment for the following reasons:-
Diagnostic Assessments (for example, to assist with diagnosing the onset of dementia or other neurological conditions).
Determine decision making capacity (including for Guardianship / Financial Management (NCAT) or Testamentary Capacity).
Determine the nature and extent of cognitive injury arising from brain trauma, strokes, tumours and or other neurological conditions.
Provide Expert assessment and Medico-Legal reports for Insurers and Lawyers.
Provide verbal and written feedback to the individual, their family / carers, and other service providers regarding:
The nature of the injury / neurological condition.
The individuals current cognitive abilities
Implications on real work functioning (for example, return to work, study, driving and domestic, social and interpersonal functioning).
Understanding and managing difficult cognitive and behavioural aspects of brain injuries / neurological conditions.
Provide baseline cognitive assessment for future comparisons over time, e.g. Pre and Post surgery.
We also provide ongoing psychological / cognitive interventions aimed at assisting individuals and families with psychological adjustment to the cognitive and emotional effects of these conditions, including anger / behavioural control, depression, anxiety, psycho-education and family (service providers) intervention practices.