NEUROPSYCHOLOGICAL ASSESSMENTS

As a Registered Psychologist in Victoria, BC, and a pediatric neuropsychologist by training, Dr. Drew Halliday offers neuropsychological assessments for children, youth, and young adults. These in-depth evaluations look beyond academic skills to understand how areas such as attention, memory, problem-solving, language, and executive functioning are working together.

A neuropsychological assessment can provide clarity around the impact of medical, developmental, or neurological conditions, and highlight both strengths and challenges. The goal is to give families, educators and medical providers a clear picture of how a child or young adult thinks and learns, along with practical strategies to promote growth, resilience, and well-being across settings.

What is a neuropsychological assessment?

A neuropsychological assessment is a detailed evaluation of an individual’s neurocognitive, academic, and emotional functioning. It is designed to uncover strengths, identify challenges, and guide effective supports.

These assessments are often recommended for:

  • Individuals with congenital or acquired neurological injuries or disorders

  • Concerns about attention, focus, problem solving or executive functioning

  • Suspected neurocognitive disorders or intellectual developmental disorder

  • Challenges related to neurodevelopmental disorders (e.g., autism spectrum disorder)

  • Complex school or post-secondary accommodation needs

The results can be used to:

  • Access community supports (e.g., CYSN or CLBC)

  • Access school-based supports and accommodations

  • Inform Individualized Education Plans (IEPs)

  • Guide treatment and therapy recommendations

  • Support applications for post-secondary or workplace accommodations

The cost of a neuropsychological assessment ranges from $4250-4750, depending on the extent of record review and consultation required.

Medical-legal and independent medical evaluations are considered on a case-by-base basis and may be subject to a different free structure. Please contact to inquire.

View all assessment services here.

Neuropsychological assessments can help identify:

  • Intellectual Developmental Disorder, formally termed Intellectual Disability

  • Neurocognitive Disorders such as those resulting from an acquired brain injury

  • Learning Disabilities in reading, writing, or math

  • Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

  • Giftedness and advanced learning needs

  • Emotional or behavioural challenges affecting learning

  • Executive functioning difficulties (planning, organization, working memory)

  • In some cases, a psychoeducational assessment may be more appropriate — learn more here.

Neuropsychological assessments involve:

  1. Intake Interview (90-minute appointment)
    A meeting with primary caregivers to discuss current concerns and the goals for the assessment. During this interview, caregivers review the child/youth’s family and social history, developmental and medical history, educational history, and vocational history (if applicable).

  2. Record Review and Consultation

    Background records are collected and reviewed. Records may include things like report cards, treatment summaries (e.g., from Occupational Therapy or Speech-Language Pathology), physician consultation notes (e.g., from Neurologists, Neurosurgeons, Pediatricians or Psychiatrists), and previous psychological assessments. Consultation with teachers or treatment providers may also be sought.

  3. Psychometric Testing (2-3 appointments)
    The child, youth or young adult completes standardized tests of various cognitive skills including things like problem solving, attention, memory, language, executive functions, and fine motor functioning, as well as academic performance. Questionnaires and projective measures may also be included to evaluate mental health and personality. A psychometrist may be involved during these appointments. A psychometrist is a professional trained to administer and score psychological tests under the supervision of a Registered Psychologist.

  4. Feedback Session (90-minute appointment)
    Meet to review the results and impressions, discuss any potential diagnoses, and review associated recommendations. Feedback sessions are typically held with the primary caregiver(s) initially for children up to 12 years of age. Youth 13 and older are often encouraged to also attend this appointment.

  5. Report and Recommendations
    A detailed report is prepared that includes the results and impressions, as well as any relevant diagnoses. A list of recommendations associated with the original referral question(s) and results is also provided.

  6. Optional: Feedback with School and/or Medical Teams

    An additional feedback with the school team or medical providers can be arranged. This is typically done virtually.

Cost and Booking process

To schedule a neuropsychological assessment in Victoria, BC, please fill out the following new client form or contact us with any questions you have:

  • Email: info@drdrewhalliday.com

  • Phone: 236-470-0566

FAQs

Do I need a referral?

Nope! You can book directly without a referral from a physician

Who may benefit from a neuropsychological assessment?

Dr. Halliday works with clients aged 4–25 years. A neuropsychological assessment may be beneficial if:

  • An individual has a known or suspected neurological difference, either from birth (e.g., cerebral palsy), an accident (e.g., a traumatic brain injury), or a neurological event (e.g., a stroke, seizures/epilepsy)

  • An individual is struggling to manage daily tasks because of problem solving skills, focus and/or organizational skills

  • An individual is performing below grade level despite extra support

  • A teen is experiencing persistent difficulties in school subjects

  • Anxiety or emotional factors appear to be affecting daily functioning

  • There is a need for clear documentation for educational or testing accommodations

  • There is a need for documentation for accessing community services (e.g., CYSN or CLBC)

How long does the process take?

From intake to feedback session, the process usually takes 4–6 weeks, depending on scheduling.

Will you meet with my child’s school or medical providers?

Yes, there is the option available that I can do a school meeting (e.g., with your child’s teacher and/or learning support teacher) and/or medical providers virtually to translate the findings from the neuropsychological assessment.

Are assessments covered by insurance?

Many extended health plans provide coverage for services by a registered psychologist. Please check with your provider.