Neuropsychological and Learning Evaluation Services
The Neuropsychological and Learning Evaluation Service at the Center for Cognitive Behavior Therapy offers comprehensive assessments for children, adolescents, and young adults. The program is designed to address a range of concerns, including those related to attention, learning, memory, intellectual functioning, hyperactivity, and impulsive behaviors.
When to Seek Help
If you have a concern about your child’s cognitive abilities, school performance, or behavioral problems, it may be time to consider a neuropsychological and educational evaluation. These concerns are often related to challenges such as ADHD, autism, learning differences, and language disorders. Evaluation results provide diagnostic clarification, highlight children’s strengths, and inform recommendations to facilitate success across settings.
Areas of Assessment for Learning Evaluation Services
A comprehensive neuropsychological evaluation assesses different domains of functioning through testing and observation. This type of evaluation includes a psychoeducational evaluation, plus assessment of additional domains. The following areas are carefully evaluated:
- Academic Achievement
- Attention and Executive Functioning
- Intellectual Abilities
- Language Development
- Learning and Memory
- Social, Emotional, and Behavioral Functioning
- Visuospatial and Visuomotor Skills
Looking carefully at these domains provides a broad understanding of how an individual thinks and learns about the world. Once the evaluation is completed, it is easier to identify and hone in on the particular areas of challenge and create a systematic plan to help.
Components of Comprehensive Learning Evaluation Services
An evaluation consists of seven components. The specifics of each component are tailored to suit the unique needs of each individual and family. A pediatric neuropsychologist conducts all components of a comprehensive evaluation to put together a clear picture of the child’s functioning. This allows for a better understanding of the child’s areas of difficulty and how to address them. The information below offers a guideline of how evaluations will be structured, but is subject to variation as appropriate:
- Initial Intake – This consists of an interview with parent(s) to assess the presenting concerns and gather background information.
- Record Review – A review of all relevant documents is conducted. This can include work samples, report cards, previous testing results, medical reports, or other data that may help to provide context and understanding of the presenting concerns.
- School Observation – When clinically indicated, observations are conducted prior to the pediatric neuropsychologist’s initial meeting with the child. This may be in person or virtual, and might take place during the area of study that is of concern (i.e., reading, math, etc.) or a challenging time period during the school day. Consultations with educators and clinicians who work with the child may also be conducted at this time.
- Testing Sessions – Each child meets with the pediatric neuropsychologist to complete a series of activities and performance-based tests that are carefully selected to assess key areas of functioning and provide a better understanding of how the child thinks and learns about the world. The neuropsychologist utilizes behavioral observations and standardized data to tailor each session to meet the child’s needs. Testing is typically completed over the course of several sessions and includes appropriate breaks to ensure children show their best work.
- Feedback – A parent feedback session is provided to review and explain the results and diagnosis. Parents will be provided with clear, practical, and personalized recommendations to help address the areas of difficulty identified in the assessment. When developmentally appropriate, a child feedback meeting is provided to help children learn about their strengths and weaknesses and understand some of the recommendations provided to address areas of concern.
- Comprehensive Report – Includes the child’s background history, testing results, interpretation, appropriate diagnoses, and individualized recommendations.
- Follow-Up – Completing an evaluation is only the beginning of the journey. After testing is complete, the pediatric neuropsychologist remains available and committed to helping the child and family obtain appropriate interventions and support. This includes the option for attending IEP or other school meetings to provide recommendations for what is in the child’s best interest.
A comprehensive neuropsychological and educational evaluation is most effective when supported by collaboration with families, teachers, school staff, tutors, therapists, physicians, and other important adults in a child’s life. At the Center for Cognitive Behavior Therapy, we understand that we are part of a greater team that needs to work together to best serve individuals and their families. Our goal is to play an active role in developing a practical learning plan to enable meaningful change and development for your child.