Neuropsychological Evaluations
Neuropsychology is the study of how learning and behavior are related to the development of brain structure and systems. A child may be recommended for a neuropsychological evaluation for many different reasons. Some of the most common indications for referral include difficulties in learning, attention, behavior, or control of emotions. Neuropsychological testing can help families discover why a child may be having school performance problems, and can assist teachers by providing better classroom strategies for those individual students. Identifying these areas of strengths and weaknesses can make a significant difference in school achievement, and that’s why PHCA has offered neuropsychological evaluations in the Melrose office since 2008.
What is a neuropsychologic evaluation?
A neuropsychologic evaluation will include an interview, ideally with both parents, about your child’s medical history and behavior. If your child has had previous educational testing, such as an IEP, or has been evaluated by other specialists about his or her behavior, please bring those records to the evaluation. Your child will be interviewed as well, and will then complete a series of tests. These tests are designed to assess your child’s intellect, as well as reading and math skills, organization, attention, memory, hand-eye coordination, and social skills. The number and type of tests administered will be focused on the areas of concern you have for your child. If your child is currently on medication to help with school performance, such as Ritalin, please ask the neuropsychologist whether the medication should be given prior to the visit. The examiner will score the tests and provide you with a report of the results, as well as detailed recommendations regarding the next steps to take.
To schedule an evaluation for your child, please leave a message for our referral specialist, Barbara Mednis, at 978-818-6797. Calls are returned Monday through Thursday. Please allow up to 48 hours for a return call.
Karen Kiley-Brabeck, Ph.D
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Licensed PsychologistJoined Practice in 2008 Education:Ph.D., Applied Developmental Psychology M.A., Educational and Developmental Psychology B.A., Human Development |
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