Goal
Provides diagnostic (cognitive and psychological) assessment for children and youth with known or suspected neurological or medical conditions that may affect CNS functioning. The results include a cognitive strength/weakness profile and specific treatment recommendations for medical, educational, vocational (age dependent), and social functioning.
Purpose
- Oftentimes, children and youth with neurological or other medical conditions experience cognitive difficulties.
- These children and youth may require a specialized assessment with a provider able to interpret the relationship between the brain-based disorders and the cognitive and emotional/behavioral functioning.
- Treatment recommendations are aimed at maximizing functioning and minimizing distress.
Clinic entry requirements
- Birth to 20
- Known or suspected medical/neurological condition that relates to CNS functioning in some way. For example:
- Seizures
- Chromosomal/genetic abnormalities or suspected influence
- TBI/Concussion
- Anoxia/Ischemic events
- History of low birthweight/Prematurity
- Infectious history (e.g., meningitis, sepsis, toxic exposure or elevations, etc)
- Cerebral palsy
- Endocrine/Metabolic disorders
- Hydrocephalus
- Cancers
- Systemic diseases
- Muscular dystrophies
- Craniofacial anomalies and syndromes
- Exclusion criteria: Patient not more effectively served through LD/Cog or ADHD clinics.
Method
- Neuropsychologist is lead clinician
- Services provided include:
- A 4 hour (max) visit where a clinical interview, neuropsychological and psychological testing are conducted
- An in-person therapeutic follow-up session, two weeks later, is provided for a detailed explanation of test results, diagnoses, and treatment recommendations. Youth, generally age 8 and up, are invited (at caregiver’s discretion including patient’s potential to benefit) for a strength-based feedback. In lieu of in-person sessions, follow-up sessions are provided via phone upon request.
- Consultation with school districts is available to assist with continuity of care in translating the neuropsychological evaluation into real-world application
- A formal report will be mailed within 3 weeks to the family and referring physician
Making a referral
A referral form must be completed and submitted by the child’s parent/guardian, primary care provider, or member of other agencies such as schools or by therapists.