Why might my child need an evaluation?
A neuropsychological evaluation for a school-aged child may be requested by educators due to concerns related to:
Attention
Reading issues
Math difficulty
Writing problems
Behavioral challenges
Social difficulties
Organizational challenges
Emotional problems
What diagnostic clarifications are possible with assessment?
An evaluation may be required as part of diagnostic clarification related to:
Autism spectrum disorder
Learning Disabilities (e.g. Language-based learning disability/dyslexia; non-verbal learning disability; dyscalculia, dysgraphia etc.)
ADHD/Executive Control Dysfunction
Gifted/Twice Exceptional
Comorbid Disorders such as Anxiety and Depression
What do neuropsychological & neurodevelopment assessments consider?
Some of the main areas assessed include:
Cognition/Intelligence
Language
Memory
Visual-Spatial/Perceptual Skills
Visual-Motor Skills
Executive Control/Attention
Social Functioning
Emotional Functioning
Behavioral Functioning
Academic Achievement
Adaptive Skills
Other Specific Areas Relevant to the Referral Question
At what age should my child receive an assessment?
Dr. Daniel provides neuropsychological and neurodevelopmental evaluations for ages 1 to 22 years, depending on the nature of concerns. She often works collaboratively with other involved providers such as pediatricians, speech/language pathologists, AAC/Assistive Tech specialists, educational consultants, psychotherapists, ABA-based providers, advocates, and special education attorneys.
Dyslexia & Language-Based Learning Disabilities
Dyslexia is one of the most common types of language-based learning disabilities (LBLD). These conditions make it difficult for people to read and comprehend the written word, communicate clearly aloud, and concentrate on or remember details of what they’ve read or heard. These learning disabilities make almost any aspect of academics a challenge from comprehending instructions to expressing questions about assigned tasks. An accurate diagnosis and educational plan can help students with LBLD develop skills and achieve academic success.
Non-Verbal Learning Disorders
Non-verbal learning disorders (NVLD) impact the child’s ability to interact socially because they struggle to understand non-verbal communication, including tone of voice, body language, facial expressions, and other cues that indicate deeper meaning when communicating with others. Additionally, they may have underdeveloped motor and spatial skills that make the completion of certain tasks like gauging distance more difficult. This condition can be difficult to diagnose, but once accurately diagnosed, individuals with NVLD can often make great progress both academically and socially.
Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common condition that impacts a person’s ability to pay attention, remember details, sit still, and reduce impulsive behaviors. Kids with this diagnosis often have lots of energy, and if it can be focused on school tasks, they can be very academically successful.
Executive Function Disorder
The executive functions are skills controlled by the frontal lobe that help individuals to complete tasks, manage time, focus, and stay organized. Typically, these conditions are grouped into two main types: organization and regulation. Both types of executive function disorders can impact a student’s ability to succeed academically. After diagnosis, there are many therapies and medications available that can help to improve executive function.