Cognitive and Educational Assessments 

Understanding strengths, challenges, and pathways to support learning and development 

 

At Willow Tree Psychology and Wellbeing, we offer comprehensive cognitive and educational (psychoeducational) assessments for children, adolescents, and adults. These assessments help us better understand a person’s thinking skills, learning style, and academic progress — highlighting both areas of strength and difficulty. Our goal is to provide meaningful insights and practical recommendations that support growth, confidence, and achievement. 

 

We use evidence-based tools, including the Wechsler Intelligence Scales — WISC-V, WPPSI-IV (for younger children), and WAIS-IV (for adults) — and the Wechsler Individual Achievement Test – Third Edition (WIAT-III), which assesses academic skills such as reading, writing, mathematics, and oral language. 

 

When is a Psychoeducational Assessment Helpful? 

A cognitive or educational assessment may be recommended if: 

• Your child is struggling with learning or development compared to peers 
• There are concerns about reading, writing, or mathematics (e.g. dyslexia, dyscalculia) 
• They appear to process information slowly or have difficulty expressing thoughts clearly 
• They frequently forget things they’ve been told or taught 
• A teacher, allied health professional, or other support person has suggested an assessment 
• You are seeking clarity regarding intellectual strengths and learning needs 

These assessments can help identify conditions such as Specific Learning Disorders or Intellectual Disability, if applicable. Diagnoses are only made when formal diagnostic criteria are met and are always considered thoughtfully and carefully in the context of the person’s history and functioning. 

 

What’s Included in the Assessment? 

A standard psychoeducational assessment at Willow Tree Psychology & Wellbeing includes: 

• Two assessment sessions (approximately 2 hours each, usually scheduled one week apart) 

• An intelligence test using the relevant Wechsler scale (WISC, WPPSI, or WAIS) 

• An academic achievement test using the WIAT-III 

• Information gathering from parents/caregivers, including developmental history and current concerns 

• Adaptive behaviour questionnaires where relevant, which may also be completed by teachers or other support people 

• A comprehensive written report, including a clear summary of results, interpretation, and tailored recommendations 

• A feedback session with parents (or the individual) to explain the findings and next steps 

 

Our Approach 

Our psychologists have specialised training in psychometric assessment and developmental psychology. We work sensitively with individuals and families to ensure that assessments are appropriate, respectful, and aligned with best practices. Where a diagnosis is warranted, it is made in accordance with current diagnostic standards (DSM-5-TR). 

We take a strengths-based, person-centred approach, ensuring that recommendations are tailored not just to challenges, but also to each person’s unique abilities and potential. Our reports often support applications for school-based adjustments, targeted interventions, or ongoing therapeutic or educational planning. 

 

Ready to Take the Next Step? 

If you’re concerned about your child’s learning or development — or are an adult seeking clarity around your own cognitive profile — a psychoeducational assessment can be an important first step in gaining understanding and support. 

 

Feel free to contact us to arrange a consultation or to find out more about how our assessment process works.