Neuropsychological Assessment
A neuropsychological assessment looks at how a person thinks, learns, and manages everyday tasks. It is used when there are concerns about memory, attention, concentration, problem-solving, or changes in thinking that are affecting daily life.
These assessments are commonly sought when difficulties at work, in learning, or in day-to-day functioning cannot be easily explained, or when concerns are more complex than they first appear. They can also assist when there has been a change in thinking following illness, injury, or over time.
The assessment provides a clear picture of cognitive strengths and areas of difficulty, along with practical recommendations to support daily functioning, planning, and decision-making.
Assessments are provided by Dr Elissa Klaassen, Clinical Psychologist and Clinical Neuropsychology Registrar, who offers evidence-based assessments for adults and older adults experiencing difficulties with memory or thinking.
A diagnostic dementia assessment is a detailed assessment of memory and thinking abilities for adults who may be experiencing cognitive change. It looks at memory, language, problem-solving, visual skills, and other aspects of thinking that support everyday independence.
These assessments are commonly sought when there are noticeable changes such as increased forgetfulness, difficulty keeping track of appointments, misplacing items more often, getting disoriented in familiar places, or increasing reliance on others for daily tasks. They help clarify whether changes are consistent with typical ageing, mild cognitive impairment, or a dementia-related condition.
The assessment provides a clear summary of cognitive functioning, along with practical recommendations to support safety, care planning, and future decision-making. Feedback is provided to the individual and family, and liaison with the referrer or treating team occurs where appropriate.
Assessments are provided by Dr Elissa Klaassen, Clinical Psychologist and Clinical Neuropsychology Registrar, who offers evidence-based dementia assessments for adults and older adults presenting with suspected cognitive decline.
Educational and Cognitive
Our team, including the highly qualified and experienced Dr Elissa Klaassen, Dr Justin Harrison, and Dr Melissa Harrison, employ neuropsychologically-informed approaches to Cognitive and Educational Assessment at Nudge Psychology to provide much more than just diagnoses.
Rigorous scientific methodologies, combined with a broad spectrum of diagnostic tools enhance the accuracy and effectiveness of our evaluations.
Our assessments are meticulously designed to measure intellectual abilities such as verbal comprehension, processing speeds, memory, language skills, and academic proficiency through a variety of standardised tests. This process is crucial for identifying learning disabilities, guiding educational planning, and supporting applications for academic accommodations. The insights gained from these assessments are instrumental in informing tailored educational strategies, interventions, and support systems that significantly improve the individual's learning experience and academic performance.
Dr Elissa Klaassen's training as a clinical psychologist and clinical neuropsychologist registrar brings a deep understanding of neurological and cognitive processes to our assessments. This is particularly beneficial for children who face learning and developmental challenges. Our focus is on identifying and understanding the unique cognitive, attentional, and learning profiles of each student, which is essential for crafting effective intervention strategies.
We utilise the most comprehensive and up-to-date test libraries, including innovative tools like the iPad-administered intellectual and academic assessment (e.g. WISC-V), to ensure our assessments are both engaging and precise. Each assessment concludes with a detailed report provided to parents, enumerating the findings and offering evidence-based recommendations for educational strategies and accommodations for formal examinations.
At Nudge Psychology, our commitment extends beyond merely identifying educational challenges. We empower parents and educators with the knowledge and tools necessary to advocate for and support their children's education, enhancing academic performance and overall cognitive functioning. This holistic approach is pivotal in diagnosing conditions such as Intellectual Disability, ADHD, and Specific Learning Disorders, which significantly impact educational and cognitive outcomes.
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Medico-Legal
Medico-legal psychological assessments are provided across a range of court and tribunal matters. These assessments address issues arising in Family Court and Children’s Court proceedings, parenting capacity matters, criminal injury claims, and other contexts where psychological evidence is required.
The work includes Single Expert Witness assessments in Family Court proceedings, as well as psychological assessments for Criminal Injuries Compensation, Workers’ Compensation, and Motor Vehicle Accident claims. Assessments focus on identifying and clearly documenting psychological functioning, injury, and relevant risk or capacity issues, in response to the specific questions posed by the referring body.
Reports are prepared to assist decision-makers by presenting psychological findings in a clear, structured manner, with careful attention to the legal context and the limits of opinion. The aim is to provide objective psychological evidence that supports informed legal and administrative decision-making.
Dr Melissa Harrison provides Single Expert Witness services in Family Court and Children’s Court proceedings. In this role, she conducts independent psychological assessments and provides expert opinions to assist the Court in determining complex family and child-related matters.
The role involves assessing parents, children, and family dynamics where required, reviewing relevant records, and preparing reports that address the questions set by the Court. Opinions are provided to the Court, not to either party, and are based on psychological evidence and the information available.
This work is undertaken in accordance with Court requirements and professional obligations, with a focus on impartiality and clear reasoning.
At Nudge, Parenting Capacity Assessments are conducted by Dr Melissa Harrison and Dr Justin Harrison and are designed to address the complex issues that arise in child welfare matters, particularly where there are concerns relating to abuse or neglect.
Dr Melissa Harrison brings extensive experience in family functioning and parenting, informed by her doctoral research and advanced training in forensic mental health. Her professional affiliations, including membership of the Association of Family and Conciliation Courts, reflect a strong commitment to evidence-based, child-focused, and ethically grounded practice.
Dr Justin Harrison contributes expertise in developmental psychology and educational settings through his background in research and lecturing, supporting careful consideration of children’s developmental needs within the legal context of parenting capacity assessments.
Together, they provide a balanced and integrated approach, combining clinical, forensic, and developmental perspectives to support clear, well-reasoned psychological opinions in complex legal matters.
At Nudge, we offer Court Ordered Family Therapy, a structured approach designed to address and mend the strained relationships within families, particularly between parents and children.
This therapy is conducted by experienced therapists experienced in navigating the complexities of family dynamics. The process is initiated either voluntarily by the parties involved or mandated by the Court.
Our therapy sessions provide a platform for all family members to discuss their issues openly under the guidance of our therapists. These sessions are not confidential; instead, they serve a dual purpose. First, they facilitate open communication and conflict resolution within the family. Second, they allow therapists to gather insights and report back to the Family Court. This reporting helps the Court make informed decisions that prioritise the children's best interests, aiming to enhance family relationships and resolve conflicts.
The therapy is particularly beneficial in cases where there is estrangement or a significant breakdown in the relationship between a parent and a child. It helps in identifying underlying interpersonal or personality conflicts and developing strategies to overcome these challenges. Although the therapy's openness might initially inhibit some participants, it often fosters a change in attitude and promotes a safer, supportive environment for all involved.
Engagement in this therapy can be discussed and arranged through your Family Lawyer, who can guide you on the process and associated costs. Whether initiated before or during court proceedings, the goal remains the same; to improve communication and understanding within the family, providing the Court with valuable insights to aid in their determinations.
Criminal injuries can result in psychological harm that requires careful assessment. We provide independent psychological assessments for Criminal Injuries Compensation, focused on identifying and documenting the psychological effects of the reported events.
Assessments are conducted in line with professional and medico-legal standards and provide clear, reasoned opinions to assist decision-makers. Our clinicians have experience assessing trauma-related presentations and understand the requirements of compensation processes.
The assessment process is structured to ensure psychological findings are clearly documented and presented in a way that supports the compensation application process.
At Nudge, we offer comprehensive support for individuals navigating the complexities of Workers' Compensation and Motor Vehicle Accident claims. Our team brings a wealth of experience from clinical and legal backgrounds, enabling us to provide expert guidance and helpful psychological assessment tailored to the exigencies of insurance-related processes.
Psychological Support and Assessment in Worker’s Compensation
Our approach integrates deep insights into psychological trauma and injury, fostering effective strategies for recovery. Dr. Melissa Harrison and Dr. Justin Harrison have substantial backgrounds in Vocational Rehabilitation and support counselling for Workers' Compensation clients, and lead our efforts in this area. Their expertise is instrumental in addressing the psychological impacts of workplace injuries and motor vehicle accidents, ensuring our clients receive both the emotional support and the professional advocacy they deserve.
Legal and Clinical Experience
The dual expertise of our team members in clinical and legal settings mean that Nudge is uniquely positioned to handle the detailed demands of insurance-related psychological assessments. We are adept at translating complex psychological findings into actionable insights that can significantly influence the outcome of compensation claims. Our goal is to streamline the process for our clients, providing clarity and support every step of the way.
By choosing Nudge, clients gain access to a dedicated team committed to their recovery and legal journey, ensuring that every aspect of their psychological needs are met with the utmost professionalism and empathy.
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