What is different about assessments at ANIMA Health Network?
At ANIMA, our assessments are conducted by clinical psychologists and neuropsychologists who have completed a minimum of eight years of specialised training in evaluating, diagnosing, and treating complex mental health, and neurodevelopmental and brain-based conditions.
We believe in a collaborative, multidisciplinary approach that considers the whole person. Our assessments aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of how neurological factors influence an individual's cognitive abilities, emotional well-being, and overall quality of life. We utilise a holistic methodology, combining standardised tests, interviews, and observations to explore the complex relationship between brain function and behaviour.
Our goal is to empower our patients to achieve their optimal outcomes.
We offer assessments and diagnostic clarification for children (ages 6+), adolescents, adults and older adults, including:
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
Education Difficulties and Specific Learning Disorders (SLD's) include: Dyslexia, Dysgraphia, and Dyscalculia
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Intellectual Disability (ID)
Acquired Brain Injury (ABI)
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
Neurodegenerative Disorders (Dementias)
Important: Although we can provide a comprehensive picture of your current difficulties. However, we are unable to prescribe medication. If you require medication, such as stimulants, you will need to see your treating Pediatrician or Psychiatrist.
Meet the Assessment Team!
Clinical Neuropsychologist
Clinical Neuropsychologist (Registrar)
Clinical Psychologist
Clinical Psychologist
What you can expect
Pre-Assessment
We ask that you complete a series of questionnaires. We also ask you to provide us with your child’s school reports and any other reports that might be relevant to your child’s functioning and difficulties (e.g., reports from speech and/or occupational therapists).
2. Diagnostic Interview
We conduct a focused diagnostic interview with you and your child to obtain background information about their developmental history, current circumstances, and the difficulties that they are currently facing.
3. Neuropsychological Assessment
Our neuropsychological assessment battery provides comprehensive insights into different aspects of your child’s cognitive strengths and weaknesses with a focus on academic skills, attention, processing speed, working memory, learning and memory, and executive functioning.
4. Feedback
We will invite you and your child for a 30-minute online feedback session to provide diagnostic feedback and treatment recommendations.
5. Neuropsychological Report
We provide you (and referrers) with a comprehensive report outlining the findings from the assessment, which includes diagnostic information, treatment recommendations, and other strategies to support your child’s cognitive profile.
What we do
Therapy:
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Schema Therapy is an impactful therapeutic intervention designed to empower individuals in overcoming entrenched, counterproductive emotional and behavioural patterns that may interfere with interpersonal relationships, career prospects and life satisfaction. Schema therapy aims to help uncover "Early Maladaptive Schemas" (EMS), which are subconscious and enduring emotional and cognitive patterns that develop in response to challenging childhood experiences. At ANIMA Health Network, all of our clinical psychologists are trained in Schema Therapy. Our aim is to help you address the root causes of emotional and psychological distress and empower you to create lasting meaningful change. Find out more about Schema Therapy.
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Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a psychotherapeutic approach developed to help individuals process and alleviate the emotional distress associated with traumatic memories. The aim is to facilitate the reprocessing of these memories, reducing their emotional impact and fostering adaptive resolution. EMDR is particularly effective in treating trauma-related conditions, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), by targeting specific memories contributing to emotional distress. All of our Clinical Psychologists/Registrars are fully EMDR trained or in the process of becoming so. Find out more about EMDR.
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Our Clinical Psychologists all have training in Imagery Rescripting, which is a therapeutic approach designed to address and alleviate emotional distress caused by upsetting mental images or memories. When individuals have distressing memories, the traditional response might be to replay them as they originally occurred, reinforcing negative emotions. In imagery rescripting, however, the person collaborates with a therapist to transform these troubling mental images. It's akin to jointly editing the script of a mental movie to introduce a more positive and constructive narrative.
During therapy, individuals actively engage in modifying the imagery associated with a distressing memory. By reshaping the mental representation of the event, the aim is to create a new, less distressing ending or perspective. This process enables individuals to reinterpret the meaning of the memory, fostering a sense of empowerment and control over their emotional responses.
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At ANIMA Health Network, we understand the unique challenges that individuals with ADHD face. Our team is dedicated to creating a nurturing and empowering environment where you can access the resources and guidance to understand and manage your ADHD effectively. This program is designed for current patients aged 18 years and over.
The program will run in person on Friday afternoons for 6 weeks at ANIMA Health Network, 170 Cambridge Street, West Leederville.
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ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition that, if left undiagnosed and untreated in childhood, can have substantial negative impacts in adulthood. In adults, ADHD can manifest in several ways, including difficulty with focus, impulsive actions leading to regrettable decisions, procrastination, organisation and time management challenges, constant inner restlessness, and difficulties regulating emotions, which can significantly affect work and relationships. At ANIMA, our team have expertise lies in the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of adult ADHD. Find out more about adult ADHD
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Depression is a mental health condition that goes beyond just feeling sad or down. It involves persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or a lack of interest in once enjoyable activities. People with depression may experience changes in appetite and sleep patterns, have difficulty concentrating, and often feel fatigued. It's like being stuck in a heavy fog of sadness that affects daily life. Fortunately the symptoms of depression can often be alleviated. Treatment can include therapy, medication, or a combination of both to help lift the cloud of depression, improve your mood, and restore a sense of autonomy.
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Anxiety is a common emotional experience where a person feels worried, nervous, or uneasy about something. It's like having a sense of fear or unease, often accompanied by physical sensations like a racing heart, sweating, or a tense feeling. While a bit of anxiety is normal, excessive or constant worry that interferes with daily life might be an anxiety disorder. It's like your mind is stuck on the "what-ifs" and can make simple tasks feel overwhelming. Let us help you acquire the tools you need to help manage your anxiety so that you can once again meaningfully reengage in the world.
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In OCD, individuals often grapple with persistent, intrusive thoughts known as obsessions. These thoughts often provoke significant anxiety or distress. In response to these distressing thoughts, individuals may feel compelled to perform certain actions or mental rituals, known as compulsions, to alleviate the anxiety or prevent a feared event or outcome. The repetitive nature of these behaviours is driven by a need to establish a sense of control or reduce the anxiety associated with obsessive thoughts. OCD can significantly impact daily functioning and quality of life, and treatment often involves a combination of therapy and, in some cases, medication. Contact our friendly admin team who can help find the most appropriate clinician to help support you on your journey.
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At ANIMA, we conduct Neuropsychological Assessments for Children 8 years and over and Adolescents (ages 12-17). Our assessments are conducted by our Clinical Neuropsychologists and Registrars who have expertise in diagnosing and treating brain-related disorders. Our assessments are accompanied by a comprehensive report with recommendations tailored to your child.
Some of the conditions we assess are:
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) (From age 16)**
Specific Learning Disorders (SLD's) including Dyslexia, Dysgraphia, and Dyscalculia
Education Difficulties
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) - Important: Whilst we will be able to provide you with a comprehensive picture of your current difficulties, we do not prescribe medication. If you need medication as part of your treatment, such as stimulant medication, you will need a prescription from your Pediatrician or Psychiatrist who is managing your care.
Intellectual Disability
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At ANIMA, we conduct Neuropsychological and Mental Health Assessments for Adults. Our assessments are conducted by our Clinical Psychologists, Clinical Neuropsychologists and Registrars, who have expertise in diagnosing and treating psychological and brain-related disorders. Our assessments are accompanied by a feedback session and comprehensive report with recommendations tailored specifically to you and your presenting difficulties.
Conditions we assess for are:
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) - Important: Whilst we will be able to provide you with a comprehensive picture of your current difficulties, we do not prescribe medication. If you need medication as part of your treatment, such as stimulant medication, you will need a prescription from your Pediatrician or Psychiatrist who is managing your care.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) (From age 16)**
For ASD assessments, please click here
Acquired Brain Injury (ABI)
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
Neurodegenerative Disorders (Dementias)
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Our assessment service for autistic adults is centered on your needs and preferences, fostering a collaborative journey where your comfort and participation are prioritised. Our patient-centered approach values clear communication, understanding your strengths and challenges through meaningful conversations rather than a mere checklist. Find out more about Autism here and contact our friendly reception to find out more about the assessment process and how we can help you.
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At ANIMA Health Network we offer one-off Diagnostic Mental Health Assessments to evaluate the nature, severity, and functional impairment for a range of psychological difficulties. You will also be provided with a complemented by a detailed report and recommendations outlining the assessment findings. Find out more.