A neuropsychological assessment objectively measures a person’s cognitive, behavioural and emotional functioning. The term ‘cognitive’ refers to abilities such as concentration, thinking, learning, memory, problem-solving and reasoning. More specifically, the assessment is designed to characterise a person’s cognition and behaviour in order to identify any symptoms that might be due to a medical condition, neurodevelopmental disorder, neurological injury or mental health condition. Assessments can also help to diagnose neurological or neurodevelopmental disorders, monitor symptoms over time and clarify eligibility for supports, such as a NDIS plan. Information gained during assessment can be used for rehabilitation, cognitive and behavioural strategies, advice for further treatment, education and as input into a multidisciplinary team approach. A neuropsychological assessment can also evaluate a person’s capacity to make informed decisions about their finances, medical treatment and lifestyle (including accommodation and care needs). It can also determine a person’s capacity to appoint enduring powers of attorney or guardianship.
Luke can provide assessments and support for people aged 16 years and over. He will first take a thorough history from you during an interview. Information might also be requested from other parties, such as a family member or treating health professionals. He will then administer some paper and pencil type activities to measure your thinking and memory skills. Following analysis of assessment results, feedback and a report will be provided. Luke regularly provides services to NDIS clients with self or plan managed packages. He is also able to consult for TAC clients and is registered as a provider with the Department of Veteran’s Affairs. Luke has experience in providing neuropsychological services to clients with the following suspected or diagnosed conditions:
Neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia, frontotemporal dementia, Parkinson’s disease, atypical Parkinsonian conditions, multiple sclerosis, Huntington’s disease, and other movement disorders.
Brain injury, including traumatic and other acquired brain injuries.
Other neurological, including mild cognitive impairment, stroke, epilepsy and brain tumour.
Mental health, such as people diagnosed with anxiety disorder, depression, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia.
Neurodevelopmental conditions, including intellectual developmental disorder (intellectual disability) and learning disorders. Please note that Luke is experienced in providing assessments and support for people with established diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder and attention-deficit/ hyperactivity disorder but is not experienced in the diagnosis of these conditions.
Further information about neuropsychology and neuropsychological assessment can be found at Clinical neuropsychologists | APS (psychology.org.au).