What is Neuropsychology
Neuropsychology is a specialized field of psychology concerned with the examination of brain-behaviour relationships. Neuropsychologists use detailed interviewing, standardized psychometric assessments and other relevant data (such as brain imaging, pathology etc) to assess, diagnose and treat conditions that affect the brain.
Neuropsychologists must complete an Honours degree in Psychology before completing further postgraduate study in neuropsychology (Masters, Professional Doctorate or PhD). Postgraduate degrees involve the comprehensive study and assessment of neuroanatomy, neuropathology, psychometric assessment, statistics and research methods.
What is the purpose of a neuropsychological assessment?
There are many reasons to undergo a neuropsychological assessment. A neuropsychological assessment provides a profile of cognitive (i.e. thinking) strengths and weaknesses. It examines many facets of our thinking controlled by different parts of the brain, including:
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Attention
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Working memory (the ability to hold in mind and manipulate several pieces of information at once)
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Processing speed
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Language and verbal abilities
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Visuospatial and constructional skills
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Numerical abilities
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Memory
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New learning
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Executive functions (i.e. reasoning, problem solving, inhibitory control)
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Mood
Neuropsychological assessment can help answer questions such as:
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How severe a brain injury was and the likely effects on behaviour, thinking and functioning moving forward
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Whether or not someone has a neurological disease, what that disease might be and what the effects of the disease are on behaviour, thinking and functioning
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Whether or not someone is able to return to work or driving
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Whether or not someone has capacity to make certain decisions
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Whether or not someone has an undiagnosed developmental condition such as an intellectual disability, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder or specific learning disorder
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Whether or not someone’s thinking or behaviour has been permanently affected by alcohol or drugs.
It can also provide evidence that might be required for the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) for eligibility or increase or decrease of support hours.
What does a neuropsychology assessment involve?
A neuropsychological assessment involves a comprehensive clinical interview followed by psychometric assessment. Psychometric assessment includes pencil and paper tasks, verbal tasks, block construction tasks etc. Assessments typically last between 3 – 5 hours depending on the specific referral query, with breaks as required.
Feedback is provided approximately two weeks following the assessment for all non-medicolegal referrals. Feedback is unable to be provided during or immediately after the assessment.
Whilst it is standard practice for a spouse or caregiver to be present during the clinical interview, they are unable to stay for the psychometric assessment component; research has demonstrated that this can interfere with assessment results.
How long do neuropsychology assessments take and what do I need to bring?
Most assessments typically take 3 to 5 hours to complete, with breaks offered as required. If you require glasses or hearing aids, you should bring them with you. It can also be helpful if a family member or friend who knows you well accompanies you for the first part of the assessment (interview and history taking), though they will not be able to stay once the standardised assessment begins.
How much does an assessment cost and does Medicare or private health provide any assistance?
The cost of the assessment is based on the Australian Psychological Society’s National Schedule of Recommended Fees for the current financial year. Most non-medicolegal assessments cost in the vicinity of $1800 and rebates are not currently available under Medicare. Private insurers usually cover some of the cost, though the amount depends on the insurer and level of cover.