A neuropsychological/psycho educational evaluation is an in-depth confidential and personalized assessment of skills and abilities linked to brain functioning. Based on standardized tests, the evaluation measures the underlying cognitive processes that are contributing to academic, emotional and/or behavioral challenges .
When is a Neuro Psychological Evaluation Needed?
There are several reasons for a neuro psychological evaluation. These reasons include:
- To rule out the possibility of suspected disorders and/or conditions (for example: learning disorders, ADHD);
- The previous evaluation no longer is valid or no longer serves to explain the current challenges;
- A psychological diagnosis or an updated assessment is needed in order to access services and/or much needed accommodations;
- Prior to the start of any specific medical treatments (such as brain surgery, medication and chemotherapy) and/or to determine the impact of brain injury/concussions;
- To support the development of treatment plans or interventions (i.e. IEP);
- When current treatments/interventions are no longer effective;
- Failure to succeed in a second language learning environment (French language instructional settings); and
- The need for a second opinion and/or a more thorough evaluation.
If you answered yes to one or more of these concerns, then a neuropsychological evaluation is advised.
What Does A Neuropsychological Evaluation Measure?
Typically, when environmental demands exceeds our capabilities, we develop “coping strategies” as a way to respond to the stress and pressures we are faced with. Coping mechanisms can be positive or negative. However, when the coping mechanisms are negative (avoidance and/or disruptive/rebellious behaviors) they often mask the underlying issues. As a result the interventions now focus primarily on managing and controlling the negative behaviors rather than intervening at the root cause of the problem.
The goal of psychological testing is to provide valuable and helpful information regarding the individual’s unique profile of strengths and weaknesses. The primary objective is to establish an accurate and differential understanding of the presenting challenges, so that the educational, behavioral, social and/or emotional issues can be addressed.
Specifically, a good evaluation will identify the presence of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), specific learning disorders, a nonverbal learning disability and other DSM 5TR mental disorders. It can also demonstrate the impact that brain injury/concussion, alcohol or drug related abuse and other psychological and/or neurological conditions has on cognitive functioning. Some typical areas of cognitive functioning include:
- attention,
- concentration,
- problem solving,
- verbal and visual memory,
- auditory and visual processing,
- language,
- intellectual quotient (I.Q.)
- visual-spatial skills,
- academic skills,
- executive functioning,
- motor skills, and
- social-emotional functioning.
Keep in mind that the purpose of psychological evaluations is to answer specific questions or concerns.
The Benefits Of a Neuropsychological Evaluation:
A detailed and good comprehensive evaluation provides the following:
- an in depth understanding of any learning and/or behavioral challenges, based on the individual’s unique profile;
- an understanding of the child’s developmental level and whether early intervention or specialized services are needed;
- a “road map” so that treating professionals, teachers, and/or parents or guardians can establish effective and appropriate interventions and treatment plans;
- valuable information that allows for effective advocacy; and
- effective and appropriate recommendations, including compensatory strategies specific to the individual’s unique needs.
In short, an evaluation will help clarify the underlying problem area(s) so that the individual can work at their potential and achieve success.
What to Expect?
The evaluation process begins with an intake interview. The goal of this interview is twofold. For one, it establishes an understanding of the challenges and needs. Secondly, it determines whether testing is warranted and the nature of testing required.
The actual test administration can take anywhere from 4-7 hours. The sessions are usually scheduled in two hour blocks of time. The length of the sessions can be adjusted accordingly depending on the client.
A detailed written report or verbal feedback is provided once the testing is completed. Detailed written reports are generally needed for educational purposes or work related accommodations.
How Assessments are Billed?
The assessment fee generally includes test preparation, test administration, test scoring and analysis/interpretation of results, report preparation/writing, and a final written report with recommendations. The fee is discussed with the client during the initial intake interview, prior to the testing process along with method of payment. Receipts are provided upon request.