Paediatric Neuropsychology

Paediatric Neuro-psychology

Every child’s brain is different – and deserves more than a quick checklist or “they’ll grow out of it.”

Tailormade for children age 5-16, Invictus Health’s paediatric neuropsychology assessments give families clear answers, a warm team on their side, and a practical plan to help their child thrive at school, at home and in the community.

A clinician playing and talking with a young child

What these assessments reveal

How does it work?

Invictus Health provides comprehensive neuropsychology assessments for children and young people (typically 5 –16 years) who are having difficulties with learning, attention, memory, behaviour, emotions or development. Assessments look at how your child’s brain is working – not just their grades or behaviour – so you understand their strengths, challenges and what support will actually help​

Our nerd-powered clinicians focus on the relationship between brain function and behaviour, and translate complex findings into plain language for parents, schools and other professionals. Families, paediatricians, schools and legal or NDIS professionals choose Invictus when they need a detailed, court-ready or school-ready report that still keeps the child at the centre.

What will be assessed?

A paediatric neuropsychology assessment can explore areas such as:

  • Attention, concentration and impulse control
  • Memory, learning and processing speed
  • Problem-solving, planning and executive functioning
  • Language, visual-spatial skills and academic foundations
  • Emotional regulation, social skills and behaviour

 

We commonly assess for or contribute to diagnoses such as ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, specific learning disorders (e.g. dyslexia), intellectual disability, giftedness, and the impact of medical or neurological conditions or brain injuries on thinking and behaviour. Your child’s profile of strengths and difficulties is mapped clearly so teachers, therapists and support services know how to respond.

What can assessments reveal?

A paediatric neuropsychology assessment may be helpful if:

  • Your child is struggling at school despite trying hard, or their grades have suddenly changed
  • Teachers report inattention, hyperactivity, social challenges or big emotions
  • There is a history of concussion, head injury, neurological illness or developmental delays
  • You’re wondering about ADHD, Autism, learning disability, intellectual disability or giftedness
  • You need evidence for NDIS applications, school funding, exam accommodations or legal matters

 

The assessment can guide classroom supports, reasonable adjustments, therapy plans and home strategies so your child is better understood – not blamed or dismissed.

Mother playing with her young son outdoors

Signs your child may need assessment

Learning difficulties

Your child struggles with reading, writing, or mathematics despite adequate instruction and effort.

Suspected ADHD or ASD

Difficulty concentrating, following instructions, or completing tasks at home and school.

After head injury or cognitive changes

Challenges with friendships, understanding social cues, or expressing thoughts clearly.

School & behavioural concerns

Frequent emotional outbursts, anxiety, or behaviours that concern teachers and family.

Unsure if your child needs this? Fill out the form or call us.

Assessment details

How it works

The assessment process

  1. Step 1. Intake and history 
    With your consent, we gather information from parents/carers, schools and referrers about your child’s development, learning, behaviour and medical background.

  1. Step 2. Testing sessions
    We conduct child-friendly, standardised tasks and activities to measure different thinking skills, paced to your child’s needs with breaks, encouragement and flexibility.

  1. Step 3. Analysis and report
    We produce a detailed report outlining results, diagnoses (where appropriate), your child’s cognitive strengths and weaknesses, and tailored recommendations for home, school and other settings.

  1. Step 4. Feedback session 
    A dedicated appointment to step through the findings, answer questions and co-design next steps with you (and your child where appropriate).
Woman helping a girl learn to roller skate

Turnaround

Assessment Timelines

An assessment normally takes between 3-4 hours. Depending on the nature of your child’s needs, multiple assessments may be required.

Once all sessions are complete, your report is typically ready within 2–3 weeks. A dedicated feedback session is then scheduled to walk you through the findings and recommendations in plain language.

Woman helping a girl learn to roller skate

How it works

Medication Information

If your child currently takes medication for ADHD, anxiety, epilepsy or any related condition, please let our team know when booking.

Depending on the nature of the assessment, your clinician may recommend attending unmedicated to ensure the most accurate picture of baseline cognitive functioning.

This varies by individual. We’ll discuss what’s right for your child well in advance so there are no surprises on the day.

Woman helping a girl learn to roller skate

How it works

Reporting

Following your assessment, you’ll receive a detailed written report outlining your child’s cognitive profile, strengths and challenges, and diagnosis where applicable.

Reports are written in plain language and are suitable for schools, specialists, NDIS applications, funding bodies, exam accommodation requests and legal settings.

Many families share reports directly with teachers and support coordinators as a practical roadmap for support. A feedback session is included to walk you through every finding and recommendation.

Woman helping a girl learn to roller skate

How it works

Fees

Paediatric neuropsychology assessments are generally not covered by Medicare or private health.

In some instances NDIS coverage can apply.  

Please contact our team to obtain specific advice about your situation.

If cost is a barrier, please talk to us. We have these conversations all the time, and it’s OK to ask. We can go through funding and payment options with you, including payment plans. Contact us or call 03 9478 1810.

Woman helping a girl learn to roller skate

How it works

Referral Information

No GP referral is required.

We welcome referrals from parents, GPs, paediatricians, psychiatrists, schools, lawyers, rehabilitation providers and NDIS professionals.

Parents and carers can also self-refer directly.

    Woman helping a girl learn to roller skate

    How it works

    Availability

    We generally have availability within 1–2 weeks across our clinic locations in Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia, Western Australia and the Northern Territory.

    Woman helping a girl learn to roller skate

    You’re in good hands

    Alana Collins, Invictus Health
    Alana Collins
    Clinical Neuropsychologist
    Dr Jao Carminati, Invictus Health
    Dr Jao Carminati
    Clinical Neuropsychologist
    Dr Hannes Venter, Invictus Health
    Dr Hannes Venter
    Clinical Psychologist & Neuropsychologist
    Elizabeth Cutajar, Invictus Health
    Elizabeth Cutajar
    Clinical Neuropsychologist
    Dr Alexander Springall, Invictus Health
    Dr. Alexander Springall
    Clinical Neuropsychologist
    Dr Kimberly Chew, Invictus Health
    Dr Kimberly Chew
    Clinical Neuropsychology Registrar
    Dr Caitlyn Drinkwater, Invictus Health
    Dr Caitlyn Drinkwater
    Clinical Psychologist & Clinical Neuropsychology Registrar
    Emma Pike, Invictus Health
    Emma Pike
    Clinical Neuropsychologist

    Assessment fees

    Assessment options

    Neuropsychology

    Neuro-psychology

    Paediatric neuropsychology

    Paediatric neuro-psychology

    IQ, memory and giftedness

    Standard assessment fee

    From $3,300 to $3,600

    From $3,300 to $3,600

    $700-$1,300

    WorkCover

    N
    M
    M

    TAC

    N
    M
    M

    NDIS

    N
    N

    Meet Dr. Judy Tang, our senior neuropsychologist

    Understanding decision-making capacity assessments with our neuropsychologists

    Judy explains what happens during a neuropsychological assessment and how the results guide treatment planning. Watch to understand the process and what to expect.

    Watch how we evaluate your ability to make important decisions about finances, medical care, and living arrangements.

    A person talking with a member of our team

    Not sure where to start?

    Schedule a 15-minute phone call

    Not sure what kind of help you need? Book a 15-minute phone call with our clinical neuropsychologist. We’ll listen to what’s been happening and help you work out your next step, whether that’s an assessment with us, another kind of support, or seeing someone else first, such as your GP or a neurologist.

    This call isn’t an assessment, and it doesn’t give a diagnosis or treatment advice.

    FAQs

    Common questions about paediatric neuropsychological assessments

    What is an Invictus Health assessment like for my child?

    At Invictus Health, your child is seen as a whole person, not just a test score.

    Our approach includes:

    • Diverse, intersectional team – clinicians who are migrants, LGBTIQA+, neurodivergent and/or have lived experience of mental health or disability, bringing deep empathy and cultural insight into every assessment.

    • Trained neuropsychologists – advanced training in paediatric brain–behaviour relationships, complex presentations and medico-legal reporting, with experience across education, health, NDIS and injury systems.

    • Friendly, child-centred care – a warm, down-to-earth approach that helps kids feel safe, supported and even a little bit proud of their “brain testing day.”

    • Neuroaffirming and trauma-informed – respectful of different brains, identities and backgrounds, with an emphasis on strengths, consent, pacing and psychological safety throughout.

    Actionable recommendations – clear, practical strategies for home and school, not just jargon; many families share reports directly with teachers and support coordinators as a roadmap for support.

    How will an assessment help my child's life?

    By the end of the process, you can expect:

    • A clear understanding of your child’s cognitive profile – where they shine and where they need support

    • Insight into whether a diagnosis such as ADHD, Autism, learning disorder or intellectual disability is present

    • A detailed written report suitable for schools, specialists, NDIS, funding bodies or legal settings

    • Concrete recommendations for classroom adjustments, learning strategies, therapy options and supports at home

    • A plan for what comes next, including review points or follow-up, if needed

    Many families describe feeling relief, validation and a renewed sense of hope after finally having an explanation for their child’s struggles and a roadmap forward.

    What age can children be assessed?

    Children as young as four years old can be assessed using age-appropriate tests. We tailor the assessment to your child’s developmental level and abilities. Younger children may require shorter sessions to maintain focus and cooperation.

    Will my child find testing stressful?

    Most children find the testing interesting and engaging rather than stressful. Our neuropsychologists create a comfortable environment and explain what happens before starting. We take breaks as needed and adjust the pace to your child’s comfort level.

    What if my child has anxiety?

    We have experience working with anxious children and can modify testing approaches as needed. Discussing anxiety beforehand helps us prepare strategies to keep your child comfortable. Some children benefit from a practice session before formal testing begins.

    Can we do assessment online?

    Most assessments require in-person testing for accurate results and proper test administration. We discuss online options for families with significant barriers to attending our clinic. Some follow-up consultations can occur via telehealth.

    What happens if results are normal?

    Normal results are valuable and help rule out certain conditions. We still provide recommendations for supporting your child’s learning and development. Sometimes normal results mean concerns are related to anxiety, adjustment, or environmental factors.

    How do we prepare our child?

    Keep your child’s routine as normal as possible before the appointment. Explain that we’re doing some activities to understand how their brain works. Ensure adequate sleep and a good breakfast on assessment days.

    Will results affect school placement?

    Assessment results inform educational planning but don’t automatically change school placement. We provide recommendations that schools consider when planning support. Parents and schools work together to determine appropriate educational settings.

    Can assessment help with school support?

    Yes, assessment results provide documentation for school adjustments and support plans. Our reports include specific recommendations for classroom accommodations and teaching strategies. Schools use these findings to develop appropriate educational plans.

    Ready to book a paediatric neuropsychology assessment?

    If you’re worried about your child’s learning, focus, behaviour or development, you do not have to wait and see.

    To get started:

    • Parents/carers – contact Invictus Health to discuss your concerns, fees and the most suitable assessment pathway for your child.

    • Schools and professionals – send a referral or enquiry outlining your key questions so the assessment can be tailored to your needs. 

    Invictus Health’s paediatric neuropsychology team is ready to partner with you to understand your child’s brain and unlock the support they need to feel confident, capable and understood – now and into the future.