Frequently Asked Questions
Similarities and differences with other evaluations
What is a pediatric neuropsychologist?
A pediatric neuropsychologist is a doctorate level licensed psychologist with specific training and expertise in brain behavior relationships. A neuropsychologist understands how various factors influence neurodevelopmental, behavioral, and emotional functioning. This includes incorporating an understanding of a child’s developmental, medical, and sociocultural history.
What do neuropsychological evaluations assess?
Each evaluation is individualized to meet the needs and the presenting concerns of the client based on information gathered during the initial consultation/intake appointment.
Areas of functioning assessed may include:
Cognitive/Thinking Capacities
Attentional skills
Executive Functioning Abilities (i.e., organizational capacities, problem-solving and reasoning skills, ability to integrate information)
Visual-Spatial Skills
Memory
Learning and Academic Development
Emotional, Behavioral, and Social functioning
Adaptive functions and Daily Living Skills
What’s the difference between a school evaluation and a neuropsychological evaluation?
School evaluations, or psychoeducational assessments, examine a student’s current scholastic abilities to qualify them for special education programs, gifted programs, or therapies within the school environment.
In contrast, a neuropsychological evaluation focuses on determining an individual’s strengths and weaknesses as well as identifying any underlying neurocognitive and emotional difficulties. Evaluations are focused to address the primary concerns prompting the referral. This includes the development of a comprehensive plan for care, support, and improvement for each client.
What if I’ve recently had an evaluation?
A neuropsychological evaluation might be recommended even if you had an evaluation through your school or a private evaluator. Reasons for referral include identifying any underlying neurocognitive or psychological factors contributing to ongoing difficulties. These difficulties might be behavioral, attentional, or emotional. Further, these underlying factors might prevent a student from benefiting from services/interventions provided by their school or outside professional.
If you have previously participated in a neuropsychological evaluation, reevaluation as you age is not uncommon. Neurodevelopmental disorders (e.g., ADHD, Autism, medical/genetic conditions) impact individuals in different ways throughout development. Reevaluations assess responses to treatment or intervention as well as monitor the client's strengths and weaknesses as skills emerge and expectations change throughout development.
