We provide comprehensive cognitive and memory assessments for individuals across the lifespan. The California Verbal Learning Test (also known as a CVLT assessment or CVLT Test) is a key tool in our neuropsychological evaluation process. These gold-standard assessments help us accurately measure various types of memory, including short-term, long-term, visual, auditory, and working memory. Whether the referral concerns academic struggles, attention difficulties, recovery from brain injury, aging-related memory changes, or accommodations in the workplace or educational settings, each California Verbal Learning Test online administration is tailored to each client’s unique needs. We use these evidence-based tools to identify areas of difficulty, highlight strengths, and inform meaningful, personalized recommendations. We give the CVLT online to most clients.
California Verbal Learning Test Online
The California Verbal Learning Test Online is a widely used neuropsychological evaluation that assesses verbal learning and memory. It helps clinicians understand how a person learns, recalls, and recognizes verbal information over time.
What the CVLT Test Measures:
The CVLT Test provides rich insights into multiple dimensions of memory functioning:
- Immediate recall (short-term memory): Ability to hold and reproduce newly presented information.
- Learning efficiency and learning curve: How much improvement occurs across repeated trials.
- Learning strategies: Whether the person uses techniques such as semantic clustering or relies on less efficient recall strategies.
- Delayed recall (long-term memory): Retention of learned information after time has passed.
- Recognition memory: Ability to correctly identify previously learned information among distractors.
- Forgetting patterns: Rate and type of information loss (e.g., rapid forgetting vs. gradual decline).
- Error patterns: Intrusions (incorrect but related words), false positives, perseverations, or organizational weaknesses.
By measuring both accuracy and strategy, a CVLT assessment provides unique insights into how memory functions, not just whether it works.
California Verbal Learning Test Online Interpretation
- CVLT test results are used for diagnosing memory disorders (e.g., Alzheimer’s disease, mild cognitive impairment)
- They are also used for differentiating between neurological and psychiatric conditions
- California Verbal Learning Test interpretation can assess ADHD, learning disabilities, or traumatic brain injury
- They can also identify strategies and errors (e.g., perseverations, intrusions)
California Verbal Learning Test Online Versions:
- CVLT-II
- Description: The second edition and historically the most widely used version.
- Target Population: Adolescents and adults (ages 16–89).
- Features:
- Expanded norms compared to the original version.
- Assesses immediate recall, delayed recall, recognition, learning slope, and error types (intrusions, perseverations).
- Useful in clinical diagnosis of neurological disorders, traumatic brain injury, psychiatric conditions, and academic accommodations.
- Online Adaptation: Reliable in telehealth formats, allowing administration over secure platforms
- CVLT-C (Children’s Version)
- Description: A child-friendly adaptation of the test.
- Target Population: Children ages 5–16.
- Features:
- Shorter word lists and more age-appropriate vocabulary.
- Norms explicitly developed for children enable more accurate detection of developmental differences.
- Evaluates encoding, retrieval, and recognition in ways suited to younger examinees.
- Use Case: Commonly employed in assessments for ADHD, learning disorders, and developmental conditions.
- CVLT-3 (Latest Edition)
- Description: The most recent version, designed to refine measurement precision and clinical sensitivity.
- Target Population: Adolescents and adults (ages 16–90+).
- Features:
- Updated norms reflecting current demographics.
- Improved sensitivity to subtle memory impairments.
- Expanded error analysis (semantic clustering, interference effects).
- Enhanced ability to differentiate between psychiatric, neurological, and normative populations.
- Clinical Value: Particularly useful for early detection of mild cognitive impairment (MCI), Alzheimer’s disease, and psychiatric conditions with executive or memory components.
- Online Utility: Allows clinicians to deliver the most modern and norm-sensitive version in tele-assessment contexts.
Types of Evaluations We Do with the CVLT Online
A CVLT assessment is rarely used in isolation; it’s part of a comprehensive battery that gives a full picture of cognitive, academic, emotional, and functional abilities. Below are common types of evaluations and the tools that are often administered alongside the CVLT test:
- ADHD Evaluations
- California Verbal Learning Test (CVLT-II or CVLT-C)
- Wechsler Memory Scale (WMS-IV) – working memory, auditory memory
- Conners-4 or Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS) – attention and impulsivity
- Continuous Performance Test (CPT-3) – sustained attention
- Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function (BRIEF-2 or BRIEF-A) – executive functioning in daily life
- Autism Spectrum Evaluations
- California Verbal Learning Test (CVLT-II, CVLT-C) – verbal memory strategies
- Wechsler Memory Scale (WMS-IV) – auditory and visual memory comparison
- Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS-2) – social communication and behavior
- Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS-2) – caregiver/teacher report of social functioning
- NEPSY-II – selected subtests for attention, executive function, and social perception
- Learning Disability (LD) Testing
- California Verbal Learning Test Online (CVLT) – encoding and retrieval in reading/writing challenges
- Wechsler Individual Achievement Test (WIAT-4) – reading comprehension, written expression, math
- Wechsler Intelligence Scale (WISC-V or WAIS-IV) – intellectual profile
- Woodcock-Johnson IV Tests of Achievement – detailed academic skills assessment
- BRIEF-2 – real-world executive functioning
- Mental Health/Emotional Functioning
- California Verbal Learning Test Online (CVLT-II) – cognitive impact of depression/anxiety
- Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II) – depression severity
- Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) or State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) – anxiety profile
- Personality Assessment Inventory (PAI) or MMPI-3 – personality and emotional functioning
- Wechsler Memory Scale (WMS-IV) – memory difficulties secondary to mood
- Workplace & Academic Accommodation Evaluations
- California Verbal Learning Test (CVLT-II/3) – learning and recall efficiency
- Wechsler Memory Scale (WMS-IV) – working memory and retention under cognitive load
- Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function (BRIEF-A or BRIEF-2) – real-world functioning
- Comprehensive Executive Function Inventory (CEFI) – planning, organization, self-monitoring
- Achievement tests (e.g., WIAT-4, Nelson-Denny Reading Test) – documenting functional impact for school and workplace accommodations
California Verbal Learning Test: Adolescent Case Example
Here’s a case example showing how the California Verbal Learning Test (CVLT-C for Children or CVLT-II for older teens) might be used in a comprehensive evaluation of a high school student who is struggling academically and suspected of having memory or executive function challenges:
His school counselor referred Jordan due to significant difficulty retaining information in class, poor test performance despite studying, and challenges following multi-step instructions. Teachers and parents report he is bright and motivated, but seems “forgetful” and overwhelmed.
CVLT Test Administration
- California Verbal Learning Test Online – Children’s Version (CVLT Online)
Other Measures Administered:
- Wechsler Memory Scale Online – Fourth Edition (WMS-IV)
- Wechsler Intelligence Scale In Person (WAIS-IV or WISC-V if 16 and under)
- Behavioral and academic questionnaires Online (e.g., BRIEF Test-2, BASC-3)
CVLT Online and Other Findings
1. Wechsler Memory Scale Online (WMS-IV)
Subtest Performance:
- Auditory Memory Index: Low Average
Jordan struggled to recall short stories and word lists immediately and after a delay. - Visual Memory Index: Average
He remembered pictures and visual patterns reasonably well, both immediately and after a delay. - Working Memory Index (WMS component): Below Average
Difficulty holding and manipulating sequences, such as numbers and shapes. - Visual Working Memory: Weak performance in Symbol Span and Spatial Addition.
Wechsler Memory Scale Interpretation:
- Jordan’s auditory memory and working memory are areas of concern. He may struggle with listening to lectures or verbal directions and retaining what he hears, especially when trying to juggle multiple tasks mentally.
2. California Verbal Learning Test Online – CVLT-C
Performance Summary:
- Jordan had difficulty learning and retaining a word list across multiple trials.
- Performance declined on delayed recall trials.
- Recognition memory was better, suggesting some information was stored but not easily retrieved.
California Verbal Learning Test Online Interpretation:
- Indicates issues with encoding and retrieval strategies, not simply attention. He wasn’t benefiting from repetition as much as expected, and may not be using effective mnemonic strategies.
Diagnosis & Impressions
Jordan’s profile is consistent with:
- Specific Learning Disorder (SLD) in Written Expression and Reading Comprehension (based on wider testing).
- Working Memory Deficit
- Suspected ADHD, Inattentive Presentation (further evaluation pending).
- No evidence of intellectual disability; cognitive ability is in the average to high average range.
Recommendations
1. Accommodations:
- Extended time on tests and assignments
- Access to lecture recordings or teacher notes
- Use of memory aids (e.g., graphic organizers, checklists)
- Oral instructions paired with written directions
2. Interventions:
- Cognitive strategy training (e.g., chunking, rehearsal techniques)
- Academic coaching focused on working memory and executive function
- Study skill support: use of spaced repetition and retrieval practice
3. Further Actions:
- Referral for ADHD evaluation and possible medication trial
- Follow up with the school’s IEP/504 team for academic accommodations
CVLT Online Results Summary
Using a CVLT assessment and other tests allowed the clinician to distinguish between memory encoding and retrieval issues, as well as between verbal and visual memory patterns. This supported a differential diagnosis of a learning disability and possible ADHD. This comprehensive view helped the school team develop a targeted support plan for Jordan.
California Verbal Learning Test Case Example 2: Adult
Robert, a 62-year-old financial analyst, reported increasing difficulty at work, forgetting deadlines, misplacing files, and losing track in meetings. His supervisor was concerned about an age-related decline in his memory. Robert described experiencing high stress due to workplace reorganization and tight deadlines, but reported no major mood problems outside of work.
Testing Administered:
- California Verbal Learning Test (CVLT-II)
- Wechsler Memory Scale (WMS-IV)
- Perceived Stress Scale (PSS)
- Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI)
CVLT Online et al Findings:
- CVLT Assessment: Robert showed inefficient learning strategies but preserved recognition memory.
- WMS: Visual and working memory were in the average range.
- Stress/Anxiety Scales: Clinically significant stress, interfering with concentration and encoding.
Interpretation:
Robert’s memory complaints reflected stress-related cognitive inefficiency (“cognitive fog”) rather than an age-related decline. Stress reduced his concentration and strategy use, but storage and retrieval mechanisms remained intact.
Recommendations:
- Stress-management training (mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy for coping)
- Digital task-management tools and structured reminders
- Supportive workplace accommodations
- Lifestyle interventions (exercise, relaxation practices)
Outcome:
With targeted stress management and workplace supports, Robert’s performance improved, and his fears of dementia were alleviated. Robert’s case shows how the CVLT Test can distinguish between stress-related cognitive changes and neurodegenerative memory loss, preventing misdiagnosis and unnecessary worry.
Summary and Our Work
Our Memory Evaluations Using the CVLT Online:
| Evaluation Type | CVLT Test Role | Other Key Measures | Other Key Measures Role |
|---|---|---|---|
| ADHD Evaluations | Verbal learning, recall, and strategy use | WMS-IV, Conners-4/ASRS, CPT-3, BRIEF-2/BRIEF-A | WMS-IV: memory indices; Conners-4/ASRS: attention; CPT-3: sustained attention; BRIEF: executive function in daily life |
| Autism Spectrum Evaluations | Verbal memory and organization strategies | WMS-IV, ADOS-2, SRS-2, NEPSY-II | WMS-IV: compare auditory/visual memory; ADOS-2: structured observation; SRS-2: social functioning; NEPSY-II: executive and social perception |
| Learning Disability (LD) Testing | Encoding/retrieval in reading and writing | WIAT-4, WISC-V/WAIS-IV, Woodcock-Johnson IV, BRIEF-2 | WIAT-4 & Woodcock-Johnson: academic skills; WISC-V/WAIS-IV: intellectual ability; BRIEF-2: executive function |
| Mood & Emotional Functioning | Detects cognitive effects of mood disorders | WMS-IV, BDI-II, BAI/STAI, PAI or MMPI-3 | WMS-IV: memory impact; BDI-II: depression severity; BAI/STAI: anxiety; PAI/MMPI-3: personality & mood profile |
| Workplace & Academic Accommodations | Documents memory and recall efficiency for support needs | WMS-IV, BRIEF-A/BRIEF-2, CEFI, WIAT-4, Nelson-Denny | WMS-IV: memory and working memory; BRIEF/CEFI: executive function; WIAT-4/Nelson-Denny: academic impact |
Conclusions
Memory concerns can impact learning, job performance, daily functioning, and overall quality of life. Through validated tools like the CVLT Test, both online and in person, we provide detailed insights into how an individual processes, stores, and retrieves information, helping to uncover the underlying causes of cognitive challenges and guiding effective interventions. Our work is focused on the positives, ensuring we highlight pathways to improvement and possibilities after describing challenges and barriers.
Our mission is to empower clients, families, educators, and employers with clear answers and practical strategies. Psychological Testing results support diagnostic clarity, treatment planning, and access to accommodations that help individuals thrive in school, work, and daily life. Each report includes a comprehensive list of suggestions, encompassing clinical services, holistic options, and self-help resources. Please feel free to contact us or schedule a consultation anytime for more information about a CVLT assessment or our services in general.
