FAQs

What is pediatric neuropsychology?

Pediatric neuropsychology is a specialty that focuses on cognition, learning, and behavior in children and adolescents. A pediatric neuropsychologist typically holds a doctorate in clinical psychology and is specially trained to understand the ways that thinking, learning, and behavior are associated with neurodevelopment, brain structures, and brain systems. A pediatric neuropsychologist uses standardized tests to measure cognitive skills such as attention, executive functioning, memory, visuospatial processing, and language. The data obtained from these tests are considered alongside parent/teacher reported functional difficulties, a child’s behavioral presentation, and a detailed clinical history to draw conclusions, consider diagnoses, and generate recommendations. Pediatric neuropsychologists often work with a child’s doctors and/or current therapists to help set goals, monitor progress, and manage expectations. They frequently consult with teachers and/or school officials to help provide necessary educational or academic accommodations.

Pediatric neuropsychologists work in different clinical settings. Many work independently in private practice. Others work in a medical or academic-medical setting such as a hospital, medical school, or specialized health clinic. Often, neuropsychologists divide their time between clinical work and research. ^ back to top

What is a standardized test?

A standardized test is a test that is administered and scored in a consistent manner. They are designed in such a way that all questions, test materials, and testing conditions (e.g. in a quiet room, at a desk) are constant across administrations. One must possess specific professional credentials to purchase and utilize standardized neuropsychological tests.

How does a neuropsychological evaluation differ from an assessment that might be performed in school?

School based assessments (also known as psychoeducational assessments) are typically performed with one goal in mind: to determine whether a child qualifies for special education programs or therapies. School based assessments focus almost exclusively on intellectual and academic achievement skills. Although this type of evaluation suffices for some children, it is difficult for a professional to responsibly diagnose any difficulty other than a specific learning disability with the limited amount of data that is gathered in this type of evaluation. ^ back to top

What are some of the reasons children are referred for a neuropsychological evaluation?

Children and adolescents are referred for a neuropsychological evaluation by a parent, doctor, teacher, school psychologist, or other professional secondary to one or more of the following reasons:

  • difficulty with regard to learning and/or academic performance despite adequate attendance and seemingly good effort
  • difficulty paying attention, socializing, or maintaining emotional control
  • a history of neurological or developmental difficulty with a condition that is known to affect the brain (e.g., epilepsy, perinatal toxic exposure, metabolic disorder, possible Autism Spectrum Disorder or AD/HD diagnosis)
  • suspected developmental delay (i.e., language, motor) 
  • brain injury from head trauma or other type of physical stress
  • it is necessary or desirable to document a child’s current functioning (e.g.,  “baseline”) or assess progress or change ^ back to top
What does a neuropsychological evaluation measure?

A neuropsychological evaluation aims to provide a clear picture of a child’s cognitive functioning with regard to intelligence, academic skills, memory, attention, visuoperception, language, executive functioning (e.g., organization, planning, behavioral inhibition), fine motor skills, emotional functioning, and (sometimes) personality. Depending on the referral question and goal(s) of the evaluation process, some areas of cognition may be measured in more detail than others.

What will the results of a neuropsychological evaluation tell me about my child?

Standardized test results enable a pediatric neuropsychologist to compare a child’s test scores to scores of children who are of similar age. With these numbers, a neuropsychologist creates a profile of cognitive strengths and weaknesses. This information is utilized to devise detailed recommendations related to how to best support this child in school, at home, and with peers. ^ back to top

If I decide to go forth with a neuropsychological evaluation, what should I expect?

A neuropsychological evaluation includes a parent interview regarding the child’s medical, psychological, and academic history, an interview with the child, behavioral observation of the child, and standardized testing. Testing typically involves paper and a pencil, hands-on activities, and a laptop computer. Parents and teachers will be asked to fill out questionnaires about their child’s development and behavior. 

The time required to complete testing depends on the characteristics and needs of the child being evaluated; some may be able to complete testing in one day (with breaks), whereas testing with other children may take place over the course of two to four days. Dr. Whitman completes all aspects of testing herself (i.e., she does not involve professional psychometrists, interns, or trainees). Parents are not permitted to remain in the room during testing.  ^ back to top

Is there anything else I should know?

It is important to make sure a child has a good night’s sleep the night before an evaluation.  If a child wears glasses, a hearing aid, or any other device, be sure to bring the device. If a child is prescribed medication, do not refrain from administering it on testing days unless otherwise discussed.  Bring hard copies or securely send .pdfs of any previous neuropsychological, psychological, or psychoeducational evaluations, school progress reports, report cards, and/or any other medical, educational, or psychological records.  ^ back to top

What should I tell my child beforehand?

Although pediatric neuropsychologists will thoroughly prepare children for the testing process once they arrive at the office, it is important to take steps to prepare them at home. It is best to be honest yet brief about what the experience might be like. Tell him/her that he/she will be working with blocks, drawing shapes, listening to instructions, and answering questions. Let them know that they will be able to have snacks if they get hungry and rest/play when they are tired. Emphasize that the child’s only job is to do their best.

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