We provide comprehensive cognitive and memory assessments for individuals across the lifespan. The Wechsler Memory Scale (WMS) and the California Verbal Learning Test (CVLT) are two key tools 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, our Wechsler Memory Scale and California Verbal Learning Test interpretation 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.
California Verbal Learning Test Online and In Person (CVLT) 
The California Verbal Learning Test (CVLT) 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 Measures:
- Immediate recall (short-term memory)
- Learning strategies (e.g., semantic clustering)
- Delayed recall (long-term memory)
- Recognition memory
- Forgetting patterns
- Intrusions and false memories
How the California Verbal Learning Test Works:
- List A: The examiner reads a list of 16 words (from 4 semantic categories, like fruits or tools) aloud 5 times.
- After each reading, the person repeats as many words as they can recall (free recall).
- List B: A second list (interference list) is read once, and the person recalls it.
- Short-Delay Free Recall: Immediately after List B, the person is asked to recall List A again.
- Short-Delay Cued Recall: They’re cued by category (e.g., “Tell me all the fruits you remember”).
- Long-Delay Free and Cued Recall: After a ~20-minute break, they are again asked to recall List A.
- Recognition Trial: Students are read a list of 44 words and asked to identify which ones are from List A.
California Verbal Learning Test Interpretation
- CVLT 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 and In-Person Versions:
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- CVLT-II: The most common version.
- CVLT-C: For children.
- CVLT-3: Latest version, with updated norms and improved sensitivity.
Types of Evaluations We Do with the CVLT Online and In-Person
- ADHD Evaluations
- Autism Spectrum Evaluations
- Learning Disability (LD) Testing
- Mental Health/Emotional Functioning
Wechsler Memory Scale Online and in Person
The Wechsler Memory Scale (WMS) is one of the most widely used tools for assessing memory function in individuals aged 16 to 90. Clinical psychologists or neuropsychologists commonly administer it as part of a broader cognitive assessment.
What the Wechsler Memory Scale Measures
The Wechsler Memory Scale is designed to evaluate a broad range of memory functions, including:
- Immediate Memory
- The ability to recall information immediately after it is presented.
- Tasks may include recalling stories or repeating digit sequences.
- Delayed Memory
- The ability to recall information after a time delay.
- Measures retention and retrieval after 20–30 minutes.
- Auditory Memory
- Memory for information presented orally (e.g., stories, word pairs).
- Visual Memory
- Memory for visual information like designs, faces, and spatial locations.
- Visual Working Memory
- The ability to temporarily hold and manipulate visual information (e.g., spatial addition, symbol span).
- Auditory Working Memory
- Holding and mentally rearranging sequences of numbers or letters heard.
How the Wechsler Memory Scale Works
- We administer the Wechsler Memory Scale one-on-one.
- It includes various subtests, each targeting different memory systems.
- Performance is scored and compared to age-based norms.
- The Wechsler Memory Scale takes 30 to 90 minutes, depending on which subtests are given.
Wechsler Memory Scale Interpretation Uses
The Wechsler Memory Scale is used in a variety of clinical, educational, and research contexts, including:
- Diagnosing memory impairments: e.g., Alzheimer’s, traumatic brain injury (TBI), dementia.
- Neuropsychological evaluations: To assess cognitive changes or deficits.
- ADHD or Autism Spectrum Disorder evaluations: To assess working memory or processing speed issues.
- Learning disability assessments: To differentiate between memory and attention-based problems.
- Mental health evaluations: For conditions like depression, schizophrenia, or PTSD, which can impact memory.
Versions of the Wechsler Memory Scale Online
WMS-IV (current version, released in 2009)
- Aligned with the WAIS-IV (Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale).
- The Wechsler Memory Scale, Fourth Edition, provides more accurate diagnoses with updated norms.
- It has an improved structure: it clearly separates working memory, visual memory, and auditory memory.
Previous Versions:
- WMS-III (1997): Introduced more complex scoring but was less aligned with WAIS.
- WMS-R (1987): Revision of original with more attention to delayed recall.
- WMS (1945): Original version, focused on logical memory and visual reproduction.
Types of Evaluations the WMS Supports
- Neuropsychological Assessments: The WMS is a core tool for evaluating cognitive deficits.
- Forensic Evaluations: It assesses brain damage, malingering, or fitness to stand trial.
- Educational Evaluations: A Wechsler Memory Scale interpretation helps determine eligibility for special education services or academic accommodations.
- Occupational Assessments: It is also useful for disability evaluations or return-to-work readiness.
Wechsler Memory Scale and California Verbal Learning Test Case Examples
Case Example 1: High School
Here’s a case example showing how the Wechsler Memory Scale (WMS-IV) and 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:
Referral Question:
Jordan was referred by his school counselor due to significant difficulty retaining information in class, poor performance on tests despite studying, and challenges following multi-step instructions. Teachers and parents report he is bright and motivated, but seems “forgetful” and overwhelmed.
Tests Administered:
- Wechsler Memory Scale Online – Fourth Edition (WMS-IV)
- California Verbal Learning Test Online – Children’s Version (CVLT Online)
- 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)
Findings
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 if he’s also trying to juggle tasks mentally.
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 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
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
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
Further Actions:
- Referral for ADHD evaluation and possible medication trial
- Follow up with the school’s IEP/504 team for academic accommodations
Summary
Using both the WMS-IV and CVLT-C allowed the clinician to distinguish memory encoding from retrieval issues and verbal from 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.
Case Examples 2: Adult
Here’s a detailed case example of how the California Verbal Learning Test (CVLT-II) and Wechsler Memory Scale (WMS-IV) can be used in a neuropsychological evaluation for a woman seeking workplace accommodations due to cognitive and memory complaints.
Referral Question:
Melissa, a 34-year-old marketing specialist, self-referred for a neuropsychological evaluation after returning to work from a prolonged medical leave following treatment for long COVID symptoms. She reports brain fog, forgetfulness, and trouble keeping up with meetings and project timelines. She seeks formal documentation to support workplace accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Tests Administered:
- Wechsler Memory Scale Online – Fourth Edition (WMS-IV)
- California Verbal Learning Test Online – Second Edition (CVLT Online)
- WAIS-IV In Person (Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale)
- Trail Making Test, Stroop Test, Digit Span Online and In Person
- Beck Depression Inventory-II, GAD-7 Online
- Structured interview and functional history
Test Findings
Wechsler Memory Scale
Summary of Results:
- Auditory Memory Index: Low Average
Trouble retaining and recalling auditory verbal information, particularly in structured story formats. - Visual Memory Index: Average
Recall tasks such as recognizing and reproducing designs were performed adequately. - Visual Working Memory: Low Average
Difficulty in tasks that require holding and manipulating visual patterns under time pressure. - Delayed Recall (both visual and auditory): Weak performance on unprompted recall, but improvement with recognition cues.
Wechsler Memory Scale Interpretation:
- Our Wechsler Memory Scale interpretation indicates retrieval-based memory deficits (trouble accessing stored info), especially with auditory information.
- Recognition tasks were significantly better than free recall, suggesting inefficient encoding or impaired executive function, rather than total memory loss.
CVLT-II – California Verbal Learning Test
Performance Overview:
- Immediate Recall Trials (List A): Below expected levels given her premorbid functioning.
- Learning Curve: Flat – Melissa showed limited improvement across repeated presentations.
- Delayed Recall: Markedly impaired; she retained fewer items than expected after a delay.
- Intrusions & Perseverations: Mild increase, indicating distractibility or inefficient strategy use.
- Recognition Hits: High, confirming retention of information but difficulty with retrieval.
California Verbal Learning Test Interpretation:
- Melissa demonstrates inefficient verbal learning and memory, compounded by likely executive function weaknesses (e.g., poor strategy use, self-monitoring).
Impressions & Diagnostic Considerations
Melissa’s neuropsychological profile is consistent with:
- Cognitive dysfunction associated with post-viral syndrome (Long COVID)
- Mild neurocognitive disorder, due to medical condition (provisional)
- Co-occurring symptoms of depression and anxiety may contribute to or exacerbate cognitive inefficiencies.
- No evidence of malingering or exaggeration; performance was consistent across validity checks.
Recommendations for Job Accommodations
Cognitive/Memory Supports:
- Access to written summaries or recordings of meetings
- Use of checklists, reminders, and planning apps for task management
- Reduced multitasking demands; assign fewer concurrent projects when possible
Environmental Modifications:
- Quiet workspace or noise-canceling headphones to reduce distractibility
- Flexible work-from-home or hybrid options for mental energy conservation
Workload and Time Adjustments:
- Extended deadlines or reduced output expectations on complex assignments
- Allow for rest breaks or “cognitive pacing” throughout the day
Further Support:
- Referral to a cognitive rehabilitation specialist
- Weekly sessions with an executive function coach or occupational therapist
Summary
The combined use of the WMS-IV and CVLT-II was essential in documenting Melissa’s specific cognitive challenges, especially with auditory verbal memory and executive retrieval. The pattern helped validate her concerns and supported formal recommendations for ADA-compliant workplace accommodations, allowing her to continue working effectively with appropriate supports.
Our Work with the WMS and CVLT Online
Memory concerns can impact learning, job performance, daily functioning, and overall quality of life. Through validated tools like the WMS and CVLT online and in person, we provide detailed insights into how an individual processes, stores, and retrieves information, helping to uncover underlying causes of cognitive challenges and guiding interventions. Our work is focused on positives, ensuring we point out 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. Testing results support diagnostic clarity, treatment planning, and access to accommodations that help individuals thrive in school, work, and daily life. Each report has a full list of suggestions, including clinical services, holistic possibilities, and self-help. Please feel free to contact us or schedule a consultation anytime for more information about memory testing, these two instruments, or our services in general.
