When an individual is experiencing challenges with learning, problem-solving, communication, decision-making or everyday activities, understanding the reasons behind these difficulties can be the key to accessing the right supports. That’s why LiveBig is pleased to offer cognitive assessments through our growing psychology team across Victoria and Queensland.
Led by experienced psychologists, including Psychology Team Lead Angela, this specialised service helps individuals, families and support networks gain a clearer understanding of cognitive abilities, support needs and pathways for greater independence.
What is a cognitive assessment?
A cognitive assessment is a comprehensive evaluation conducted by a psychologist to understand how a person learns, thinks, reasons and processes information.
These assessments can help identify:
- Cognitive strengths and weaknesses
- Potential barriers to daily functioning and community participation
- Support needs related to intellectual disability
- Strategies that can improve independence and quality of life
For NDIS participants, cognitive assessments must relate to the person’s disability or suspected disability and demonstrate how the assessment will support improvements in daily living, social participation and community engagement.
When might a cognitive assessment be helpful?
A referral may be appropriate when there is a need to:
- Identify cognitive strengths and challenges to inform treatment planning and supports
- Understand barriers affecting functional participation at home, school, work or in the community
- Clarify a diagnosis of intellectual disability
- Determine eligibility for enrolment in specialist educational settings
- Understand the severity of intellectual disability to ensure appropriate supports are in place
- Build the capacity of participants and families through greater understanding, education and self-management strategies
According to Angela, understanding a person’s cognitive profile can empower individuals and families to make informed decisions about supports and future planning.
“A cognitive assessment provides valuable insights into how a person learns and functions. This information helps ensure supports are tailored to the individual’s needs, strengths and goals, creating better outcomes for participants and their families.”
Who can access this service?
LiveBig’s cognitive assessment service is available for:
- Children aged six years and older
- Adolescents and adults aged 16 to 90 years
- NDIS participants whose assessment relates to their disability or suspected disability
Assessments are conducted face-to-face and can take place:
- In the participant’s home
- At a LiveBig clinic
- In another suitable community location, where appropriate
What does the assessment include?
Typically funded through 12 to 15 hours of Improved Daily Living (IDL) funding, the assessment process may include:
- One to two information-gathering sessions, completed via telehealth or face-to-face
- A comprehensive cognitive assessment conducted over one to three face-to-face sessions
- Detailed report writing, including diagnosis (where appropriate), recommendations and individualised strategies
- A feedback session with the participant and their support network
LiveBig recommends service agreements are signed for 15 hours, with any unused funding released if the full allocation is not required.
What types of assessments does LiveBig provide?
Our psychology team currently offers:
- Assessment of suspected intellectual disability
- Re-assessment of intellectual disability
- Assessment of the severity of intellectual disability
- General cognitive ability assessments, including identification of strengths and weaknesses
Available Across Victoria and Queensland
LiveBig’s cognitive assessment service is currently available through psychologists located across multiple regions.
Victoria
- East Melbourne
- Moonee Ponds
- Glenroy
Queensland
- Brisbane North and South
- Logan and Northern Gold Coast
- Ipswich and Rosewood
- South-West Ipswich region
Supporting Better Outcomes Through Understanding
A cognitive assessment can provide clarity, direction and confidence for individuals, families and support teams. By identifying strengths, understanding challenges and providing practical recommendations, these assessments help ensure participants receive the supports they need to achieve their goals.
Whether you’re seeking diagnostic clarification, planning future supports or looking to better understand cognitive functioning, LiveBig’s psychology team is here to help.
To learn more about LiveBig’s cognitive assessment service or to make a referral, contact our team today.
