For clients & families
What is a clinical neuropsychologist?
Clinical Neuropsychologists are experts in the relationship between the brain, thinking skills, behaviour, and everyday functioning. They work with people experiencing changes in memory, attention, learning, language, decision-making and other cognitive abilities due to neurological, medical, developmental or mental health conditions.
Using detailed assessments, Clinical Neuropsychologists identify cognitive difficulties, clarify diagnoses, and provide recommendations to support treatment, everyday functioning, independence and wellbeing.
Qualifications
Clinical Neuropsychologists have completed advanced postgraduate training and hold specialist endorsement from the Psychology Board of Australia through the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA).
What does a neuropsychological assessment involve?
The assessment session. A neuropsychological assessment is conducted in the Clinic and typically takes 3 hours to complete although this may vary depending on the type of assessment. Breaks are offered and assessments may be split over two sessions where required. This session includes:
A detailed clinical interview to further understand your personal background, medical issues, and your symptoms and concerns. You may bring a family member or friend;
A range of tasks to evaluate your thinking skills including memory, learning, attention, language, and problem-solving. Tasks involve pencil and paper activities, answering questions and using an iPad (facilitated by the neuropsychologist).
Scoring of tests and interpretation. After the assessment, the results are analysed, establishing your cognitive strengths and difficulties.
Feedback session. A feedback session (approximately 1 hour) is organised for you, to explain the assessment results, answer your questions and discuss recommendations for supports, treatment or rehabilitation. You are welcome to bring a family member or friend.
Written report. A comprehensive written report is provided to you, and to the referring doctor with your consent. The report includes assessment findings, diagnosis (where applicable) and tailored recommendations.
Who we see?
Sydney Memory Centre provides neuropsychological assessments for adults of all ages who have concerns about their thinking, memory, or behaviour. We work with individuals, their families, and their treating clinicians.
Older adults
Adults aged 55 and over who are experiencing memory lapses, word-finding difficulties, or changes in thinking that may be related to early dementia.
Younger adults
Adults under 55 presenting with cognitive concerns following acquired brain injury, neurological illness, mental health conditions, or unexplained cognitive decline.
Families and carers
Family members or carers who have noticed changes in a loved one and are seeking clarity, a diagnosis, or guidance on how best to provide support, are welcome to attend the initial interview and feedback session.
Self-referred individuals
People who wish to understand their own cognitive profile, whether for peace of mind, planning purposes, or to establish a baseline for future comparison.
Do I need a referral?
A referral from a treating clinician is recommended including from GPs, medical specialists and allied health professionals.
What are the fees?
Fees are guided by the Australian Psychological Society fee schedule. The fee for a neuropsychological assessment may vary according to the type of assessment and the length of time needed to conduct the assessment and prepare the report.
Currently, neuropsychological assessment is not covered by Medicare. However, following the assessment, cognitive rehabilitation and lifestyle management sessions may be partially covered by Medicare, under a GP Chronic Condition Management Plan or a Mental Health Treatment Plan. Partial reimbursement for psychology sessions may be covered by private health insurance.
Please contact us for further information about fees.
How to prepare for your assessment?
Get a good nights sleep before your assessment as it is important to be functioning at your best for your assessment.
Bring your glasses, hearing aids, or any other assistive devices you normally use.
Bring any relevant medical reports, test results and imaging reports, or other relevant reports.
Bring a list of your current medications, including dosages.
Take your regular medications as usual.
Eat a light meal beforehand as the session is several hours long. You will be offered refreshments during the break.
You are welcome to bring a support person who can join the initial interview and feedback session.