Cognitive (IQ) Assessment
A clear, evidence-based picture of intellectual strengths and challenges — and the practical implications for learning, work and support.
What it is
A cognitive assessment gives a clear, evidence-based picture of how the mind works — verbal and non-verbal reasoning, working memory, processing speed, and the way a person takes in and works with information. It turns vague worries like “why is this so hard?” into real answers you can act on.
Cognitive assessment is often the foundation for other questions too — clarifying a learning profile, contributing to an autism or intellectual-disability assessment, or identifying giftedness. We use validated, gold-standard tools, and our approach is neuroaffirming throughout.
At a glance
- Suitable for: Children and adults seeking a clearer understanding of their cognitive profile, giftedness, or the reasons learning or work feels harder than it should.
- Ages: Measures available across the lifespan (from early childhood through adulthood)
- Format: Standardised measures are generally completed in person for an accurate result
- You receive: A written report describing the profile with clear, practical recommendations
A clear, considered process
Enquiry & intake
We talk through your concerns and goals, and confirm the right measures for the question you're asking.
History
A relevant developmental, educational and personal history to put the results in context.
Assessment session
Standardised cognitive testing using age-appropriate, gold-standard measures.
Feedback & report
A feedback session, and a written report describing strengths, challenges and practical next steps.
Tools that may be used
We choose the cognitive measure that fits the person's age and the purpose of the assessment. Measures that may be used include:
Core intellectual measures
- WISC-V — Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (ages 6–16)
- WAIS-IV — Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (ages 16–90)
- WPPSI-IV — for younger children (from age 2½)
- SB5 — Stanford-Binet Intelligence Scales (across the lifespan)
Brief & screening measures
- WASI-II — Wechsler Abbreviated Scale of Intelligence
- KBIT-2 and the RIAS-2
Non-verbal (language-reduced) measures
- Leiter-3, WNV and Raven's Progressive Matrices
- Useful where language, hearing or English-language background could affect a standard measure
Adaptive functioning
- Vineland-3 and ABAS-3 — where an intellectual-disability or autism question is involved
Every assessment is individually tailored. The measures used are chosen to fit the person, their age and the questions being asked — not every tool listed is used in every assessment.
Transparent about cost
The Cognitive Assessment is set out in full on our fees page, including everything it includes.
Good to know
- No referral is needed to enquire or book.
- In person across bayside Melbourne; telehealth Australia-wide.
- A comprehensive written report and feedback session are included.
- Funding through the NDIS or private health may apply in some circumstances.
Frequently asked
What's the difference between a cognitive and a learning assessment?
A cognitive assessment measures reasoning and thinking abilities (IQ). A learning assessment adds academic achievement testing to identify a specific learning disorder such as in reading, writing or maths. The two are often combined.
Can you assess for giftedness?
Yes. A cognitive assessment can identify intellectual giftedness and clarify the kind of extension and support that will help most.
Is a cognitive assessment done in person?
Standardised cognitive measures are generally best completed in person for an accurate, valid result. We'll confirm the arrangements when you enquire.
From what age can you assess?
Measures are available across the lifespan; we assess from age 6½, with younger-child measures available where appropriate.
Other assessments
Ready to take a steady first step?
A place for bright futures.
Send an enquiry and we'll be in touch. No referral is needed to begin a conversation.