Cognitive Assessment

Understanding Cognitive Assessments

A cognitive assessment, often referred to as an IQ assessment, evaluates a range of thinking and learning abilities, including verbal comprehension, visual-spatial reasoning, fluid reasoning, working memory, and processing speed. It provides valuable insight into how a child processes information, learns, solves problems, and applies their cognitive strengths in everyday life. Cognitive assessments can help clarify reasons for academic underachievement, explore intellectual development and giftedness, and inform educational planning and intervention strategies. For many families, a cognitive assessment offers greater clarity and understanding of a child's unique cognitive profile, helping to guide informed decision-making and access to appropriate supports. The results may also assist in determining whether further assessment is warranted for concerns such as specific learning disorders, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), or Intellectual Developmental Disorder.

Assessment Measures

At Skyview Psychology, cognitive assessments are conducted using the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children, Fifth Edition (WISC-V) and, where appropriate, the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale, Fourth Edition (WAIS-IV). The WISC-V is commonly used with children and adolescents, while the WAIS-IV may be used with older adolescents and adults. These evidence-based assessments provide detailed information about cognitive strengths and challenges across areas such as verbal comprehension, visual-spatial reasoning, working memory, processing speed, and fluid reasoning, helping to inform recommendations for learning, support, and future planning.

What to Expect

The cognitive assessment process typically involves several stages to ensure a comprehensive understanding of your child's cognitive strengths and needs.

Initial Parent Consultation
The process begins with a parent consultation session, during which detailed background, developmental, educational, and family information is gathered. This appointment also provides an opportunity to discuss the reasons for seeking an assessment, clarify the referral questions, and explain the assessment process in more detail. This session is usually conducted in person in my Bega rooms, however, may be completed via telehealth in some circumstances.

Assessment Sessions
Your child will then attend one or two assessment sessions, depending on their age, needs, and the assessment measures being used. During these sessions, a range of activities and tasks are completed to evaluate different aspects of cognitive functioning, such as reasoning, problem-solving, memory, attention, and processing speed. These sessions are conducted in person, in my Bega rooms.

Scoring, Interpretation and Report Writing
Following the assessment sessions, the results are carefully scored, analysed, and interpreted. Where relevant, additional information such as previous assessments, school reports, and teacher feedback may also be reviewed. Information gathered throughout the assessment process is integrated into a comprehensive written report outlining cognitive strengths, areas of difficulty, and relevant recommendations.

Feedback and Recommendations
Once the report has been completed, a feedback session is held with parents or caregivers to discuss the assessment findings and recommendations. This session provides an opportunity to ask questions, gain a clear understanding of the results, and discuss appropriate supports or next steps. A copy of the assessment report is provided at this time. This session is usually conducted in person in my Bega rooms, however, may be completed via telehealth in some circumstances.