Neuropsychological Testing

What is Neuropsychological Testing?

A neuropsychological evaluation (“neuropsych” test) provides a thorough assessment of your brain’s strengths and weaknesses in order to provide recommendations to improve your functioning at school/ work, home, and in the community. Neuropsychological evaluations help to determine “why” you are experiencing a challenge and “what” to do to make it better, such as academic accommodations, psychotherapy, occupational and/or speech language therapy, etc.

What does a neuropsychologist assess?

We commonly assess intelligence/ cognitive skills, academic achievement, language, memory, attention, executive functioning, and personality, behavioral, social, and emotional functioning. Referrals vary, but can include ADHD, anxiety, depression, anger or other behavior concerns, learning challenges, and traumatic brain injuries.

What should I expect?

An evaluation consists of an hour-long clinical intake with caregivers (and/or the patient themselves, depending on age), test results, behavioral observations, and responses on self, parent, and teacher questionnaires. These “puzzle pieces” are put together to create a comprehensive picture of your strengths, weaknesses, and needs.

Neuropsychological testing lasts anywhere from 4-8 hours and can be conducted in one day or across multiple days (depending on presenting concerns and age).

Who needs a neuropsychological evaluation?

Anyone struggling with attention, behavior, schoolwork, activities of daily living, emotional and/or behavioral regulation, or just finding day-to-day responsibilities challenging may benefit from “neuropsych” testing. The ideal candidate is at least 6 years old and comfortable working for 2-3 hours with short breaks.

How do I know if a neuropsychological evaluation is right for my family?

Neuropsychological testing is a valuable tool that can make an enormous difference in the life of a child and their family. Sometimes, though, testing may not be the best first step. Therapy may be more useful to help children manage their symptoms well enough to participate in testing, to learn and practice coping skills, and maybe even resolve their presenting concerns well enough to not need testing at all.

What should I do next?

Testing is a financial investment for caregivers and a significant time and energy commitment for a child to make. Call us today to help you make an informed decision regarding whether neuropsychological testing is right for your family.