A cognitive assessment measures how a person thinks: reasoning, memory, attention, processing speed and problem solving. It answers practical questions — why is school a struggle, is memory decline a concern, what supports will actually help — with objective, standardised evidence rather than guesswork.
What a cognitive assessment involves
Our psychologists use gold-standard instruments including the WISC-V (Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children) for children and adolescents and the WAIS-IV (Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale) for adults, supplemented where needed by measures of memory, attention, academic achievement and executive functioning. The process:
- Initial clinical interview — history, concerns and the question the assessment must answer
- Standardised testing, usually over two to three hours (often split across sessions for children)
- Scoring, interpretation and report preparation
- Feedback session — findings and recommendations explained in plain language
Common reasons for referral
- Learning difficulties at school or in study — including specific learning disorder assessment
- ADHD assessments — cognitive profile supports accurate diagnosis
- Autism assessments — cognitive testing can inform the diagnostic picture
- Memory and thinking concerns after head injury, illness or in later adulthood
- Giftedness identification and academic extension planning
- Vocational and rehabilitation planning, including after injury at work
Why Cygnet Clinic for cognitive testing
Cygnet Clinic is one of the few Perth clinics where a cognitive assessment doesn't end at the report. If results point toward ADHD, autism or another condition, our assessment team can take the next step in-house — ADHD and autism assessments, diagnostic clarification, and psychiatric review when medication or medical causes need attention. Adults with injury-related memory concerns also benefit from our integrated pain management program. One clinic, both Midland and Fremantle locations, telehealth available for interviews and feedback.
See our full assessment service here and our psychological assessments overview, or read about Kate Pereira, child clinical psychologist, for children's assessments.
Frequently asked questions
What is a cognitive assessment?
Measures of thinking skills — reasoning, memory, attention, processing speed — using standardised tools such as the WISC-V for children and WAIS-IV for adults, showing cognitive strengths and difficulties to support diagnoses, learning plans and treatment decisions.
Who might need one?
Learning difficulties, suspected ADHD or autism, memory concerns after injury or illness, giftedness identification, and clarifying complex presentations before treatment planning.
How long does it take?
Testing usually runs two to three hours, sometimes split across sessions, plus an initial interview and a feedback session once the report is ready.
How much does it cost?
Fees depend on the complexity of the case, the purpose of the report and the clinician involved. We confirm the full fee before booking. Medicare rebates may apply to some components — ask your GP about a referral.
Do I need a referral?
Not always required, but a GP referral is recommended — it supports Medicare rebates where they apply and helps rule out medical causes.
Will I get a report?
Yes — a written report with plain-language findings and recommendations for home, school, work or treatment, plus a feedback session.
Ready to book a cognitive assessment?
Book online or call us. Midland and Fremantle locations, telehealth for interviews and feedback.
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