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Child Cognitive Assessment – WISC-V
Understanding Your Child’s Learning Profile
Assessment Information Sheet – HarbourLight Psychology Melbourne
Child Cognitive (IQ) Assessment – WISC-V - 6-16 years old
Every child learns in their own way. A cognitive assessment using the WISC-V (Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children – Fifth Edition) helps explore how your child reasons, solves problems, and approaches learning tasks.
This assessment looks beyond a single “IQ score” to understand areas such as reasoning, memory, processing speed, and verbal skills. The aim is to better understand your child’s learning profile and identify strengths and areas where additional support may be considered.
The WISC-V is suitable for children aged 6–16 years.
What the Child WISC-V Assesses
The assessment explores several cognitive domains, including:
• Verbal comprehension
• Visual-spatial problem solving
• Working memory
• Processing speed
• Fluid reasoning
Together, these areas contribute to an understanding of how your child approaches learning and problem-solving.
Common Reasons Families Seek Assessment
Parents may consider a cognitive assessment when:
• School performance doesn’t match effort
• Learning feels harder than expected
• There are questions about giftedness
• Teachers have raised learning concerns
• A clearer understanding of learning style may be helpful
• Support planning is needed
WISC-V Assessment Process
The process is supportive, structured, and child-friendly.
What to expect:
Initial Consultation:
Discussion with parents (and child where appropriate) to understand concerns, history, and goals.
Assessment Session:
In-person testing using structured tasks and activities.
Report Preparation:
A written report summarising results and, where appropriate, recommendations.
Feedback Session:
Results are explained in clear language, with time for questions and planning next steps.
Practical Details
Duration: 2–4 appointments, in-clinic testing is required. This assessment is conducted in person and is not available via telehealth.
Cost: $1200 (includes intake, testing, report & feedback)
Rebates: Cognitive assessments are not currently rebated by Medicare. For private health or third-party funding, please check directly with your provider or case manager.
Wait Time: Usually 2–4 weeks.
How Results May Be Used:
Results may be used to:
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Understand learning strengths
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Highlight areas where support may be beneficial
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Inform school planning
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Guide home strategies
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Support referrals if needed
Results are shared with parents and, if requested, schools or other professionals. Assessment outcomes vary between individuals and do not guarantee specific educational, school-based, or diagnostic outcomes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if this assessment is right?
If there are ongoing learning concerns or questions about your child’s abilities, this assessment may provide helpful insight.
What happens during testing?
Your child completes structured tasks and activities. There is no pass/fail.
What will the report include?
A summary of strengths, areas of difficulty, and, where appropriate, recommendations.
Is it covered by Medicare?
No, cognitive testing is a private service.
Can it be done online?
No, the WISC-V requires in-person administration.
About Our Approach
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Assessments are conducted by registered psychologists using standardised tools.
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Structured approach.
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Feedback sessions are used to explain results clearly.
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Time allowance for feedback questions and discussion.
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Child-centred approach.
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Typical wait times (2–4 weeks for initial sessions).
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Flexible scheduling including after school hours.
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Location: Melbourne / East Melbourne.
Get Started
If you would like to discuss whether a cognitive assessment may be appropriate for your child:
HarbourLight Psychology – supporting children to understand how they learn.
Feel understood. Find your way forward.
Get in touch for any questions so we can start working together. Call 03 8594 0423 or message below
