Assessment
Cognitive (IQ) Assessment in Melbourne
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 provides a detailed picture of how a person thinks, learns and processes information. It explores areas such as verbal and non-verbal reasoning, working memory and processing speed, helping to identify an individual’s cognitive strengths as well as areas that may require additional support.
For children and adolescents, this can help explain why some aspects of learning or everyday functioning feel easier than others. For adults, it can provide greater insight into an individual’s cognitive profile and how this may influence study, work and daily life.
Cognitive assessment can also form an important part of a broader assessment, including understanding learning difficulties, exploring intellectual disability, contributing to a neurodevelopmental assessment, or identifying giftedness and areas of cognitive strength.
We use validated, internationally recognised assessment tools and take a neuroaffirming and strengths-based approach. The aim is to translate assessment findings into clear, meaningful information and practical recommendations that can be used at home, school, university, work and in everyday life.
A clear, considered process
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Enquiry & intake
We talk through your concerns and goals, and confirm the right measures for the question you’re asking.
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History
A relevant developmental, educational and personal history to put the results in context.
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Assessment session
Standardised cognitive testing using age-appropriate, internationally recognised measures.
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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
The WISC-V (Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children, ages 6–16) and WAIS-IV (ages 16–90) are among the most widely used cognitive assessments in Australia.
- 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)
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 above are a representative sample, not a fixed battery.
Fees
Transparent about cost
- Cognitive Assessment $1,500
Questions
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
Get started
Start with a conversation.
Tell Myra a little about what’s happening. No referral is needed, and you’ll hear back within two business days.