Question 1

How long are your assessment sessions?

Accepted Answer

Appointments are generally 90-120 minutes; however, the session length will be modified depending on your child’s needs, including their age, level of fatigue and ability to focus on the tasks presented.

Question 2

Do you offer targeted assessments, or do I need to complete a full assessment?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we can provide targeted assessments based on your specific needs. These focused evaluations may include cognitive assessments, dysgraphia assessments, or other specialized areas of evaluation. Targeted assessments are particularly relevant when a comprehensive assessment has been conducted recently and only a review or update of specific areas is required.

When we conduct a targeted assessment focusing on a particular domain, we are able to provide a concise report or letter addressing the specific area evaluated, rather than a comprehensive report. This approach offers a more streamlined and efficient option for clients who require evaluation in defined areas.

During your initial consultation, we will discuss your requirements and determine whether a targeted assessment is appropriate for your situation, or if a comprehensive evaluation would better meet your needs.

Please contact us to discuss your specific assessment requirements and to determine the most suitable approach for your circumstances.

Question 3

How much will the assessment cost?

Accepted Answer

We charge an hourly rate of $295, which is below the recommended fee set by the Australian Psychological Society. You will only be charged for the initial appointment, child assessment sessions, feedback session and the provision of a report at the hourly rate. All other services including scoring and formulation, contact with teachers/schools and health professionals will not incur a fee. More details about fees and payment can be found here.

Question 4

When do I make a payment? Can I go on a payment plan?

Accepted Answer

Payment for each consultation session is due immediately after the appointment. Payment for the neuropsychological report (five to six hours, depending on the type of assessment) is due after the feedback session. Reports are completed and emailed to you between fourteen to twenty-eight business days after the account has been fully settled. Payment plans are available on request. For further information, please see our fees, or contact us to discuss your circumstances.

Question 5

Do I need a referral?

Accepted Answer

A referral is not required for our services. However, a referral is required if you wish to claim a Medicare rebate. Please see our fees page for more information about possible rebates and how to obtain these.

Question 6

Am I able to get a Medicare or Private Health rebate?

Accepted Answer

Medicare rebates may be available for some assessments with an appropriate referral from a GP, Paediatrician or Psychiatrist. We are able to accept referrals under the Chronic Disease Management Scheme for Allied Health Services, the Better Start for Children with Disability Initiative and the Medicare Complex Neurodevelopmental Disorder Scheme (Paediatrician and Psychiatrist referrals only). Depending on your child’s situation, we may also be able to accept referrals under the Better Access Initiative with a Mental Health Treatment Plan for intervention services. Assessments can also be funded under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), depending on your child’s situation. Please see our fees or contact us for more information.

Question 7

What do I need to bring to an assessment appointment?

Accepted Answer

It’s useful if you can bring any previous assessment reports from other psychologists, your child’s paediatrician, or other allied health professionals such as speech pathologists or occupational therapists. These can also be emailed through to our office manager beforehand. You may also want to bring a drink bottle and/or snacks for your child (assessment sessions last up to 2-hours but will have breaks). This is optional but can be useful for younger children, or when assessment sessions are scheduled over usual lunchtimes or after school.

Question 8

My child takes medication, should they take this before an assessment?

Accepted Answer

Generally yes, we prefer that children take all usual medications before an assessment, so that the assessment is conducted with them as they usually are at school (e.g., if your child takes medication to assist their attention at school, it’s preferable that they also take this before an assessment). There are times where medications may not be appropriate, or you may wish to know your child’s abilities when not on medication. If this applies to you, of if you are unsure, please let our office manager and/or your neuropsychologist know when you appointments have been booked (preferably before the day of assessment), and your neuropsychologist can discuss your child’s specific circumstances with you.

Question 9

What will the results tell me? What will be included in the report questions?

Accepted Answer

The neuropsychological report will include relevant information about your child’s developmental history and current challenges, as well as a detailed outline of their strengths and weaknesses on assessment, a formulation of the factors underlying their presentation, diagnoses (where applicable), and tailored strategies to support your child moving forward. A Learner Profile is also provided to help schools understand your child’s needs and implement effective supports in that environment.

Question 10

Is a full assessment always required, or can I just obtain a learning profile for my child?

Accepted Answer

A neuropsychological assessment is a detailed and comprehensive process. Rather than simply providing a learning profile (or scores in particular areas), our specialised assessment and expertise allows us to offer a more comprehensive understanding of the additional factors that may be underlying or contributing to your child’s learning difficulties (for example, do they also have difficulties with attention or with language that may make classroom learning challenging for them). Understanding these factors then allows us to provide individualised strategies and recommendations (for you and your child’s school) to best support and optimise their learning. Without the results of a full assessment, that important information cannot be provided.

Question 11

Do I have to attend the feedback session?

Accepted Answer

In the feedback session, your neuropsychologist will explain to you all of the assessment results (your child’s strengths and weaknesses) and findings (and diagnoses where applicable). They will also discuss with you individualised strategies and recommendations for your child. The feedback session is also your opportunity to ask the neuropsychologist questions about your child, to clarify anything you are unsure about, and get specific strategies for key challenges. Most parents report that the feedback session is the most informative and useful part of the assessment process.

Question 12

What is included in the report?

Accepted Answer

The neuropsychological report will include detailed information about your child’s developmental history, a description of their strengths and weaknesses on assessment, a formulation of the factors underlying their presentation, diagnoses (where applicable), individualised strategies and recommendations, and links to reputable resources.

Frequently asked questions