Getting Assessed for Neurocognitive Disorders

Understanding Neurocognitive Disorders

Neurocognitive disorders can impact memory, problem-solving, attention, and other cognitive abilities. At Psychological Assessments, we provide expert evaluations to identify neurocognitive challenges and offer strategies to support daily functioning.

What are Neurocognitive Disorders?

Neurocognitive disorders involve impairments in cognitive functions, including memory, attention, language, and problem-solving. In other words, they involve a noticeable decline in mental functions like attention, memory, language, and decision-making.

This decline can be caused by an injury to the brain (from falls, accidents, or strokes), diseases or infections (like meningitis, HIV, Huntington’s), neurodegenerative (like dementia), or excessive substance use (like alcohol, drugs, or medications).

The different types of Neurocognitive Disorders include

Sudden confusion, less awareness of surroundings, and difficulty focusing that can last for hours to months.

A significant drop in thinking and memory affects daily independence.

A slight drop in mental functions that doesn’t interfere with daily life.

What are the Symptoms, Challenges and Behaviours of Neurocognitive Disorders?

Below is a list of symptoms, challenges, or behaviours commonly associated with this condition.

What are the Causes?

These conditions may arise from various causes, such as brain injury, neurodegenerative diseases, or developmental conditions.

Major and Mild Neurocognitive Disorders can be due to:

Self-Assessment: Take the quiz

The questions below offer a starting point for helping you identify if you may have ADHD and whether an assessment would be helpful. It is essential to realise that this test is not diagnostic and will not deliver a diagnosis. It is a tool to help you start your investigative journey by helping you identify possible symptoms. As other conditions can sometimes resemble ADHD, it is important to get properly assessed by a professional.

Welcome to your Self-Assessment: Take the quiz

Do you (or your loved one) struggle to pay attention to tasks or activities?

Do you often forget daily activities or things you need to do?

Is being on time consistently a problem?

Is there trouble thinking things through before making decisions?

Is there a lot of fidgeting or difficulty staying still?

Is talking a lot or being unable to do quiet activities an issue?

Are organising tasks and planning activities difficult? Does it become too overwhelming when too much is going on, and you don’t know where to even start?

Do small, overlooked details often lead to mistakes?

Is sitting still for expected periods a challenge? Does moving around, pacing, or fidgeting with things make it easier?

Are you or your loved one easily sidetracked?

Why Get Assessed for Neurocognitive Disorders?

Neurocognitive disorders can significantly impact memory, problem-solving, attention, and other cognitive abilities, affecting daily life and independence. At Psychological Assessments, we provide expert evaluations that offer clarity, actionable strategies, and access to the support needed to navigate these challenges. Timely diagnosis and intervention can greatly improve quality of life and overall functioning.

Understand the specific challenges affecting cognitive functioning.
Use the results to access tailored interventions and services, including NDIS funding.

Gain practical recommendations to support independence and quality of life.

Making Assessments As Easy As 1-2-3

We believe in making the assessment process as straightforward and supportive as possible. We’ve been on your side, either for ourselves, a loved one, or through work, and we want to make sure this part of the journey is as easy as possible and that the information you receive along the way is easy to understand and implement—as easy as 1-2-3!

01
Let’s chat about whether an assessment is right for you and, if so, which one(s).
02
We’ll gather your information and complete the relevant assessments.
03
We’ll help you understand the assessment’s outcome, what it/they mean, what strategies and supports are recommended, and what needs to happen next.

Who Should Consider a Global Development Delay Assessment?

If a child shows difficulties in attention, memory, or problem-solving that impact school or daily life, an assessment can clarify their needs.

For adults experiencing memory loss, concentration challenges, or cognitive decline, an assessment can help identify the root cause.

Assessments can support access to funding and tailored services through the NDIS.

How to Prepare for an Assessment

Here are some tips to help you prepare for the assessment process.

We know an assessment can feel intimidating for children, so we do our best to make them feel at ease. You can help by explaining that they will be participating in different activities, all designed to help us understand how they learn and think—and that there are no right or wrong answers. Bringing a favourite toy or comfort item can also help your child feel more relaxed. Our goal is to make this process as positive as possible, and we are here to answer any questions before the visit.
Preparing in advance is helpful to get the most out of your assessment. Gather relevant documents, such as previous assessments, medical records, or school reports. Reflect on your current concerns and questions—you’ll have the opportunity to discuss these during your appointment. If you need any accommodations or prefer to bring a support person, please let us know in advance to ensure a comfortable experience.

What to Expect During the Assessment Process

Our assessments are designed to be comfortable, supportive, and thorough. We aim to create a calm and comfy atmosphere to make the experience as stress-free as possible. We hope children and adults find a safe, welcoming space to express themselves freely.

We’ll participate in various activities during the assessment to help our team understand cognitive, behavioural, and emotional characteristics. These may include tasks like memory exercises, attention tests, and problem-solving activities conducted in a supportive setting.

Neurocognitive Disorder Assessments typically take 2–4 hours, depending on the individual’s needs.

Why Choose Psychological Assessments?

Client-Centered, Flexible Approach

At Psychological Assessments, we understand that every person’s needs are different. We adapt to your schedule and requirements, offering assessments in-clinic, in-home, or online.

Empathy and Expertise

Our highly qualified psychologists combine professional expertise with a real-life understanding of our clients' challenges. We take pride in creating a welcoming, nonjudgmental environment where everyone feels respected and supported.

Clear and Practical Insights

Our assessments go beyond reports—they provide actionable steps that make a real difference. We write in plain English so that everyone involved—from parents to teachers—can understand the recommendations and effectively put them into practice.

Community Engagement

We believe in giving back to our community, advocating for vulnerable groups, and providing accessible services. We also support other professionals through supervision and specialised training.

Frequently Asked Questions

Your top questions about our assessments answered.

An assessment evaluates cognitive functions like memory, attention, and problem-solving to identify challenges and their potential causes.

An assessment may help if persistent cognitive functioning difficulties, such as memory loss or attention issues, persist.

Medicare may cover part of the assessment cost if you have a referral from a GP, neurologist, or psychiatrist under a relevant plan, such as the Chronic Disease Management (CDM) Plan. Coverage varies, so it’s best to check with your doctor or Medicare for specific eligibility details.

Some private health insurance plans with extras cover may provide a rebate for neurocognitive assessments. Coverage depends on your insurer and policy, so we recommend contacting your provider to confirm your benefits.

Yes, neurocognitive disorder assessments may be covered by NDIS funding. Contact us to learn more

Assessments typically take 2–4 hours, including testing and reporting.

How Can We Help?

At Psychological Assessments, we go beyond identifying challenges. We empower individuals and families with the tools, strategies, and support needed to thrive. Whether it’s accessing funding, enhancing independence, or understanding cognitive needs, we’re here to help. Contact our experienced team today to book a Neurocognitive Disorder Assessment or discuss your needs.