The pediatric neuropsychological evaluation at NNA identifies deficits associated with learning problems, attention disorders, traumatic brain injuries, brain tumors, epilepsy, acquired neurological conditions, genetic and pervasive developmental disorders. All these conditions can disrupt the normal trajectory of cognitive and emotional development of a child and can result in uneven progress in reaching developmental milestones, problems with school achievement, and difficulties in social relationships.

The evaluation is aimed at providing a diagnosis as well as detailed recommendations to improve the child’s level of adjustment at home and at school. Often these recommendations are used by a special education team within the school system to formulate an Individualized Educational Plan (IEP). Referrals are made to guide treatment and rehabilitation of areas of weakness.

The pediatric neuropsychological evaluation differs from the testing provided by the school psychologist. Although some of the same tests may be used, the pediatric neuropsychologist interprets the pattern of results in the context of information regarding brain organization, brain functions (e.g., attention, memory), the child’s medical history, and the developmental stage. The focus is on understanding what is preventing the child from performing as expected. For example, a child may have difficulties following directions. The goal of the neuropsychologist is to find out if this stems from an attention deficit, a problem understanding the language, or a problem remembering the directions. A neuropsychological assessment establishes a diagnosis and proposes an intervention plan.

Early Developmental Conditions in Preschoolers

Neuropsychological evaluations are offered to preschoolers and are useful in diagnosing the presence of language developmental delays, problems with attending skills, behavioral/temperamental issues, and social skill deficits among other conditions. At this early stage of development, the evaluation is primarily aimed at planning and referring the child to appropriate services within the community or the school system. In most cases, early interventions have a greater and sustained impact on the child’s long-term development.

Special Services for children with Pervasive Developmental Disorders, Autism and Asperger's Syndrome

At NNA, the evaluation of conditions within the autistic spectrum is comprehensive and includes assessment of social behavior as well as intellectual functioning. The evaluation involves the use of a standardized assessment of social behavior through the ADOS (Autism Diagnostic Observational Schedule), which is presently considered the state-of-the-art tool to diagnose disorders of social relatedness. Delays in language, disorders of attention, and other cognitive deficits associated with the autistic spectrum disorders are diagnosed within the comprehensive neuropsychological battery. Recommendations are developed for treatment plans and referrals to other specialists or local agencies.

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