A cognitive assessment (also known as IQ test) provides information on the cognitive strengths and weaknesses of an individual. Cognitive assessment can be used to understand learning potential, diagnose for giftedness, intellectual disability, learning difficulties, working memory deficits, and auditory processing issues.

Cognitive assessments are useful for parents who are concerned about their child’s performance at school, and young children with intellectual disabilities may be eligible for educational funding. Understanding the cognitive abilities of children who are gifted may help provide an enriched or accelerated curriculum. It can also be helpful for understanding the career options and aptitude for older teens and adults, or for individuals who want more insight into the way they think and reason. The psychologist will discuss recommendations with learning strategies based on the individual’s unique abilities and skills, helping to understand how to nurture one’s strengths and overcome certain weaknesses.

The following areas are assessed:

• Verbal Comprehension – language, vocabulary, and general knowledge
• Visual Spatial – visual processing skills, spatial relationships and visualisation
• Fluid Reasoning – problem-solving, flexible thinking, and logical reasoning skills
• Working Memory – attentional capacity, organising and manipulating information
• Processing Speed – mental quickness, speed and accuracy of completing tasks

The cognitive assessment includes:

1. Interview with the parent of child or individual if client is 18+
2. Cognitive assessment
3. Feedback session to discuss findings and recommendations with report provided