If you are considering an ADHD assessment, you will likely encounter a wide range of providers and associated costs. A key factor influencing these differences is whether cognitive testing is included as part of the assessment process.
At Brainworks Psychology, we offer a comprehensive and evidence-based assessment that includes cognitive testing, which we consider an essential component in accurately understanding and diagnosing ADHD.
What Is a Cognitive Assessment?
A cognitive assessment is a standardized evaluation used to measure an individual’s thinking and reasoning abilities, including areas such as attention, memory, processing speed, language, problem-solving, and executive functioning. The results provide insight into cognitive strengths and weaknesses, supporting diagnostic clarification, educational planning, and treatment recommendation.
A cognitive assessment is a vital component of a comprehensive ADHD evaluation, as it assists in identifying an individual’s specific cognitive strengths and weaknesses that may contribute to difficulties with attention, concentration, and executive functioning. It provides objective data regarding how ADHD symptoms may influence learning, daily functioning, and problem-solving, while also helping to differentiate ADHD from other conditions that may present with similar cognitive or behavioural features.
At Brainworks Psychology, we use gold-standard cognitive assessment tools, which include:
– WISC-V (Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children – Fifth Edition) for children aged 6–16 years.
– WAIS-IV (Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale – Fourth Edition) for adults aged 17–90 years.
The cognitive assessment typically takes approximately 1.5 hours to complete and consists of a range of interactive, tablet-based tasks designed to assess various aspects of thinking and problem-solving. This format enhances engagement and is particularly beneficial for younger clients who may initially feel hesitant to participate.
The purpose of the cognitive assessment is to develop a detailed profile of the individual’s cognitive functioning across multiple domains, including working memory, processing speed, attention, verbal comprehension, and perceptual reasoning. As ADHD is recognised as a neurodevelopmental condition, the assessment aims to identify an individual’s unique pattern of cognitive strengths and weaknesses. This profile is then considered in relation to the cognitive patterns typically observed in individuals with ADHD, supporting a more accurate and evidence-based diagnostic process.
Why Isn’t It Always Included?
In Western Australia, there is currently no standardised or mandated procedure that clinicians are required to follow when assessing for ADHD. Each practitioner exercises professional discretion in selecting the assessment tools and methods they consider to be reliable and valid for diagnostic purposes. Some clinicians may rely primarily on clinical interviews, questionnaires, and rating scales, which provide valuable qualitative insights; however, these methods can be somewhat subjective and may not directly assess cognitive functioning. It is also important to note that differences in assessment approaches and tools are not always clearly communicated to individuals seeking ADHD assessment services.
At Brainworks Psychology, we do not claim that our approach is superior to other services available in Western Australia. Rather, we emphasise that our assessment process is comprehensive and evidence-based, incorporating both qualitative information—obtained through background forms, questionnaires, and clinical interviews—and quantitative data derived from cognitive assessment. This integrated approach supports a more balanced and informed understanding of each individual’s cognitive and behavioural profile in relation to ADHD.
Why Are Brainworks Psychology Assessments More Expensive Compared To Other Places?
At Brainworks Psychology, a significant portion of the assessment fee reflects the inclusion of a comprehensive cognitive assessment, which is not currently subsidised by government funding or eligible for health fund rebates. The cognitive assessment is considered a critical component of our ADHD evaluation process, as it provides objective, standardised data that enhances diagnostic accuracy and clinical understanding.
While lower-cost ADHD assessments may be available elsewhere, clients are encouraged to consider whether cognitive testing is included as part of those services. The cognitive assessment used at Brainworks Psychology is a globally recognised, highly valid, and reliable instrument that contributes valuable objective evidence to support a thorough and evidence-based ADHD diagnosis.
Why a Cognitive Assessment Is Crucial
- ADHD is a brain-based condition
Research demonstrates that ADHD is not solely characterised by behavioural symptoms, but is underpinned by differences in brain functioning. Standardised cognitive assessments, such as the WISC-V and WAIS-IV, provide objective data that complement interviews, background information, and questionnaires. Psychiatrists and paediatricians frequently rely on these results to inform diagnostic decisions. - Cognitive testing identifies individual strengths and challenges
Extensive research indicates that working memory and processing speed are the cognitive domains most commonly affected in individuals with ADHD. Cognitive assessment helps to identify both strengths and areas of difficulty, highlighting whether an individual’s cognitive profile is consistent with patterns typically associated with ADHD. - Results inform functional support and intervention
By identifying specific cognitive strengths and weaknesses—and determining whether these align with ADHD-related patterns—cognitive assessment results can be applied across academic, social, and family contexts. This information helps guide targeted supports and intervention strategies that address an individual’s unique needs. - Cognitive assessment reduces the risk of misdiagnosis
ADHD frequently co-occurs with conditions such as anxiety, depression, autism, and specific learning disorders, which may present with overlapping symptoms. Without standardised, objective data to supplement behavioural measures, there is an increased risk of diagnostic uncertainty or misdiagnosis. Cognitive testing provides clarity by distinguishing ADHD-related cognitive patterns, particularly in working memory and processing speed. - It enhances the credibility of the assessment report
Reports that incorporate WISC-V or WAIS-IV results are highly regarded by psychiatrists, paediatricians, schools, and workplaces. Because these results are standardised, research-based, and objectively derived, they add substantial credibility and diagnostic validity to the overall assessment findings. - It supports tailored treatment and intervention planning
A comprehensive ADHD assessment that includes cognitive testing not only clarifies the presence of ADHD but also provides valuable insights to guide ongoing intervention and treatment planning. This ensures that recommendations are specifically tailored to the individual’s cognitive and functional profile.
The Brainworks Psychology Approach
Every ADHD assessment at Brainworks Psychology—whether for a child or an adult—includes administration of the WISC-V or WAIS-IV to assess cognitive functioning. These gold-standard, research-validated instruments form the foundation of our evidence-based approach to ADHD assessment.
Cognitive testing results are integrated with behavioural questionnaires, background information, and a comprehensive clinical interview to provide a detailed understanding of each individual’s cognitive and behavioural profile. Findings are clearly documented in our assessment reports, ensuring that when clients share their report with a psychiatrist or paediatrician, it provides robust, evidence-based information to support diagnostic formulation and treatment planning.
Summary
At Brainworks Psychology, cognitive testing is an essential component of every ADHD assessment. While the assessment process represents a significant investment, it delivers a thorough and scientifically grounded understanding of the individual’s cognitive and behavioural functioning. This comprehensive approach enhances diagnostic clarity, accuracy, and credibility—allowing clients to move forward with confidence. In addition, it deepens understanding of ADHD and its impact on brain functioning, supporting access to tailored interventions and ongoing mental health support.
If you’re ready to book your ADHD assessment, contact Brainworks Psychology today.
