FAQs
What is a pediatric neuropsychologist?
A pediatric neuropsychologist is a licensed psychologist with specialized expertise in how a child’s cognition/thought processes and behavior relates to brain development and functioning. The neuropsychologist uses standardized tests to evaluate cognitive, behavioral and social-emotional functioning in order to identify areas of strength and weakness and define how a child is functioning in comparison to expectations for their age-level. Test results are interpreted within the context of a child’s medical/neurological, developmental, academic and social-emotional history to determine diagnoses, generate recommendations and establish an appropriate intervention/treatment plan.
When should a neuropsychological evaluation be considered?
Difficulty with learning, changes in academic performance and to identify learning disabilities.
Concerns regarding attention and/or hyperactive/impulsive behavior and to assist in diagnosing ADD/ADHD.
Difficulty socializing and concerns regarding the potential presence of an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or Social (Pragmatic) Communication Disorder.
Determine the impact of a concussion or traumatic brain injury on cognitive, academic and emotional/behavioral functioning.
Assess and monitor cognitive and academic functioning in individual’s with developmental delays and neurological/medical conditions such as epilepsy, cancer, cerebral palsy, genetic disorders, and brain infection.
Concerns related to language, memory, executive function, visual-spatial/motor, or processing speed skills.
Determine cognitive functioning prior to or following medical intervention(s) such as brain surgery, chemotherapy, or introduction of a new medication.
Concerns related to sudden changes in an individual’s usual functioning or failure to respond to current interventions/treatment in place.
Determine eligibility for accommodations for standardized tests (e.g., SAT, ACT, MCAT).
What is the difference between a neuropsychological evaluation and a psychoeducational evaluation performed through my child’s school?
A school based or “psychoeducational” evaluation is performed by a school psychologist and typically only includes testing of intellectual (IQ) and academic functioning. This evaluation serves to identify whether a child has learning issues to determine their eligibility for special education services. A school based evaluation cannot diagnose any clinical condition (e.g., Dyslexia, ADHD) or determine underlying cognitive processes or social-emotional or environmental factors that may contribute to a child’s academic underperformance.
How do I prepare my child for a neuropsychological evaluation?
Avoid using the term “testing” and instead inform that he/she will be engaging in various “activities” such as working with blocks, drawing, solving puzzles and answering questions.
Describe that the evaluation will be used to understand how he/she learns or thinks to know how best to help him/her in school (or other settings).
Let the child know that they will not be “graded” and simply need to try their best during the evaluation.
Ensure that a child has a good night’s sleep the night before.
Administer any daily/nightly medications as prescribed.
What should I bring to the evaluation?
Copies of any prior evaluations (e.g., school, neuropsychological, psychological and Early Intervention assessments), school progress reports and recent medical records (for children with neurological disease/injury).
Glasses, hearing aids or any other device required for your child.
Snacks/drinks.
Any preferred items from home (e.g., toys, books) that may help to keep your child occupied during the intake interview.
What should I expect on the day of the evaluation?
An intake interview with caregivers will be conducted first prior to initiating testing. Depending on the child’s age and reported concerns, he/she may be interviewed separately and/or with caregivers.
The neuropsychological evaluation is conducted 1-1 without parents/caregivers in the room (though exceptions may be made for very young children).
During the evaluation, parents may be asked to complete questionnaires or rating inventories.
Your child will be provided intermittent breaks to rest or have a snack/meal as needed.
The evaluation is often completed in one day but may be conducted over multiple sessions. The total time for the evaluation depends on the age of the child, reason for testing, and/or a child’s stamina during the evaluation.
Although I may provide brief feedback to caregivers regarding my observations during testing, all scoring and interpretation occurs after the visit/evaluation is completed. Results and recommendations are described in detail at the formal feedback session and in the neuropsychological report.