Understanding Neuropsychological Assessment: 10 Common Questions
If you are experiencing changes in memory, attention, problem-solving or mental clarity, a neuropsychological assessment might help make sense of what’s going on. Neuropsychological assessments are designed to explore how your brain is functioning and provide a clearer picture of your strengths and areas of difficulty. In this post, we answer ten of the most common questions about the process.
1. What is a neuropsychological assessment, and how is it different from a regular psychological test?
A neuropsychological assessment is a detailed evaluation of how your brain is functioning in areas such as memory, attention, language, reasoning and emotional processing. Unlike standard psychological assessments that tend to focus on mood or personality, neuropsychological assessments explore the link between brain function and day-to-day thinking skills.
2. Who might benefit from a neuropsychological assessment?
People of all ages may benefit. At Brainsight, we work with individuals aged 16 to 100. You might be referred for assessment if you are experiencing ongoing concentration difficulties, memory changes, mental fatigue, slower thinking, or difficulties at work or in daily life. Assessments are also commonly undertaken in the setting of queries around neurodiversity (ADHD and/or Autism) and after events such as a stroke, head injury, or neurological illness, or when there is concern about conditions like dementia.
3. What kinds of problems can a neuropsychological assessment help to clarify?
These assessments can help understand:
• Difficulty staying focused or organised
• Problems remembering recent conversations or appointments
• Slowed thinking or trouble keeping up with tasks
• Changes in decision-making, personality or behaviour
• Mental fatigue or difficulty managing complex situations
A neuropsychological assessment can help uncover the reasons behind these difficulties and guide your next steps.
4. How can a neuropsychological assessment support diagnosis or treatment planning?
The assessment results can help clarify whether you meet criteria for conditions such as Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI), various forms of dementia, brain injury, or another neurological condition. Just as importantly, it helps inform what practical strategies can support your functioning at work, home or in the community. The findings can also be useful for your GP, specialist or therapist in planning further care.
5. What areas of thinking and functioning are tested?
A typical neuropsychological assessment looks at areas such as:
• Memory and learning
• Attention and concentration
• Speed of thinking (i.e. processing speed)
• Problem-solving and reasoning
• Language and communication
• Visual and spatial skills
• Mood, mental health and emotional adjustment
These areas are assessed using tasks that are scientifically validated and interpreted by a trained clinician.
6. What happens during the assessment process?
The process begins with a structured interview where the clinician asks about your background, medical history and current concerns. You’ll then complete a series of thinking tasks, which may be paper-based, verbal or computerised. The assessment is one-on-one and paced to suit your needs, with regular breaks offered.
7. How long does it take, and is it tiring?
Assessments typically take between 2 and 5 hours, and may take place across 1 or 2 sessions, depending on the referral question and the level of detail required. It can be mentally tiring, so it’s a good idea to come well-rested and bring water or a snack. Many people find the process interesting and appreciate the opportunity to better understand how their brain is working.
8. Will I get a diagnosis from the assessment?
A diagnosis may be provided if the results meet the criteria for a specific condition, but that’s not always the goal. The main aim is to clarify your thinking strengths and challenges so you can make informed decisions and receive appropriate support.
9. What will I receive after the assessment?
You will receive a written report that explains the results and includes tailored recommendations. You will also have a feedback session to go through the findings, ask questions and discuss next steps, such as strategies, or recommended supports or treatment.
10. How can I prepare for a neuropsychological assessment?
There’s no need to study. The best way to prepare is to get a good night’s sleep, eat beforehand, and take any prescribed medications as usual. Bring reading glasses or hearing aids if you use them. It can also be helpful to bring along previous medical or psychological reports if available.
If you’re wondering whether a neuropsychological assessment could help you or someone close to you, we are happy to field enquiries and answer any other questions you might have.
You can get in touch with our clinic via our contact form, or via phone on 0493 976 935.