Neuropsychology is the scientific study of brain-behaviour relationships. It is concerned with how brain function can affect the way people think, feel and behave.

Clinical neuropsychology refers to the applied practice of neuropsychology in which knowledge of brain-behaviour relations, assessment tools, and large data-bases of statistical information about normal and abnormal functioning are combined to assess an individual's mental abilities and emotional state, and/or provide an intervention.

A clinical neuropsychologist specialises in the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of individuals who are experiencing the cognitive, emotional and behavioural consequences of neurological, medical, developmental and/or psychiatric conditions . A neuropsychologist is a qualified professional that has special training in the area of neuropsychology (normally a postgraduate degree). In Australia, only those professionals who are endorsed as clinical neuropsychologists by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency are allowed to use the title "neuropsychologist".

A neuropsychological assessment involves an interview where personal information is collected. This involves, for example, information about your academic, occupational and medical history. Then, you will be asked to complete a number of tasks from which the results will be used to complete the evaluation.

Initially a thorough clinical interview is conducted to gather information about an individuals history and background. Following this, the client will complete multiple paper and pencil tasks, which aim to identify a profile of cognitive strengths and weaknesses. For some tasks you will be asked to write or draw thing, complete puzzles and for others you will need to listen and answer questions. Assessment tasks are selected in accordance with the the specific referral question. At Canvas Neuropsychology all services are provided in accordance with the Australian Psychological Society Code of Ethics.

Typically individuals are referred for a neuropsychological assessment by a health specialist or other professional. At Canvas Neuropsychology we also accept referrals directly from the general public seeking a formal neuropsychological opinion. Contact us here.

It is useful to bring the results of any previous medical investigations that may be relevant to the referral questions (e.g. brain scan investigations, blood test results and/or results of any previous neuropsychological testing ). Additionally, a list of all medications should also be supplied.If an individual has difficulty providing information about their history, it may be helpful for a family member or close friend to accompany them for at least part of the clinical interview.
- Individuals are encouraged to bring glasses and hearing aids if required
- Relevant academic results are also required in some cases.

It is the goal of the neuropsychologist to obtain the best possible picture of an individuals current functioning. Several things can interfere with this goal, for instance if the individual is:
- Excessively tired or fatigued.
- Not motivated to put forth best effort.
- Acute psychiatric condition.
- Under the influence of medications or illicit substances that may interfere with cognitive functioning.

Individuals should let the neuropsychologist know if they anticipate that any of these issues are likely to interfere with the evaluation.

It is important to get a good night's rest before evaluation. Individuals should not worry about whether they will "pass" the assessment as it cannot be passed or failed; instead results of the evaluation describes how an individual performs relative to same aged peers.

Assessment length may vary; however, typically an assessment will take from 3 to 8 hours which can be carried out in one session (including breaks) or over two or more sessions. Once a referral is received, the neuropsychologist will estimate the amount of time needed to conduct the assessment . This will then be discussed with you to determine the most suitable number of sessions.

Upon assessment completion, the neuropsychologist scores and interprets the results in order to produce a report. Commonly, the client and referring health specialist / professional has access to the neuropsychological report. Individuals themselves may choose to provide the results to other individuals, or to request that they be released by signing a Release of Information form. Additionally, when appropriate to the referral question, a client feedback session will be offered at which point the neuropsychologist will discuss the assessment results and recommendations.

Prices may vary depending on the nature of the service, the total length of time taken to complete the assessment and/or details required the report. It is recommended that you call for a quote. Payment in full is required prior the release of comprehensive neuropsychological documentation. Currently, Medicare does not offer rebates for neuropsychological assessments. However, you may be able to claim a percentage of the fee from your private health fund. This amount varies considerably depending on your insurer and on your level of cover. Please, check directly with your health fund for information specific to your situation. Canvas Neuropsychology will provide you with an invoice and receipt including a provider number that you can submit to your insurance company.