Frequently Asked Questions
What is a neuropsychological evaluation? A neuropsychological evaluation is a comprehensive assessment of multiple areas of cognitive, social, and emotional/behavioral functioning. Areas assessed are typically tailored to your questions/concerns. Areas assessed may include: Intellectual functioning Academic skills Attention Language Visuospatial reasoning Executive functioning Memory Motor/sensory skills Social functioning Independence skills Emotional/behavioral functioning Neuropsychological evaluations can help determine strengths/weaknesses, clarify diagnoses, and guide interventions and school planning.
How are neuropsychologists different than other psychologists/providers who conduct assessments? Neuropsychologists have specialized training in brain-behavior relationships and neurodevelopment, allowing for integration of test results with a youth’s medical, genetic, or developmental history. Dr. Clawson completed graduate and post-doctoral training at top-level institutions, which included extensive inpatient and outpatient neuropsychological care. Dr. Clawson has also become board certified, a rigorous process requiring the highest level of competency in neuropsychology (see https://abpp.org/). This extensive, specialized neuropsychological training allows for detailed understanding of neurodevelopment, brain-based differences, and the impact of these factors on cognition. Dr. Clawson is also able to use and interpret a variety of cognitive assessments.
Who would benefit from a neuropsychological evaluation? Neuropsychological evaluations can be useful in a variety of situations, which may include: -For diagnostic clarification. -To better understand a youth’s strengths and vulnerabilities. -To understand the impact of a medical event or medical diagnosis on functioning. -To track cognitive outcomes during or following medical care (e.g., prior to cancer treatment, following completion of cancer treatment). -For support during major developmental transitions (e.g., from elementary school to junior high, from junior high to high school, to adulthood, etc.). -To understand potential causes of changes in emotional, behavioral, or cognitive functioning. -To support decision making or determine if a youth qualifies for state/government supports or programs (e.g., DDA, SSI, etc.).
How is a neuropsychological evaluation different than school testing? School testing is typically limited to school-related concerns, often to determine if a child qualifies for school supports (e.g., an Individualized Education Program, Section 504 Plan). Schools usually do not complete testing that is as in-depth and comprehensive. Testing completed by a school is not diagnostic. Though test results may reveal concerns (e.g., signs of ADHD, autism, or learning disabilities) and can help youth qualify for school services or accommodations, school evaluations do not result in medical diagnoses.
What happens during a neuropsychological evaluation? Interview: A caregiver and/or patient interview is typically held prior to the evaluation. This interview provides an opportunity to gather history and clarify goals for the evaluation. Record Review: It is important for caregivers to send in prior evaluations, school supports, and any other relevant records for review. Caregivers also often complete rating forms of the youth’s behavior in everyday settings. Assessment: Youth are seen in the office for a day of testing. Testing is completed one-on-one with a neuropsychologist. Caregivers typically wait in the waiting area and are not present in the assessment room. The assessment includes a variety of tasks including computerized tasks, paper and pencil tests, etc. Obtaining Collateral Information: When appropriate, the neuropsychologist may request to speak with the school, teacher(s), or therapists. Rating forms may also be sent to school providers or therapists. Feedback Session: Usually, a 60-90 minute feedback session is scheduled 2-3 weeks following the testing appointment. Depending on the youth’s age and other factors, a feedback may also be scheduled with the youth. Written Report: A written report will be sent to caregivers and any referring doctor’s following the feedback session. The report will contain a detailed history, profile of strengths and weaknesses, and extensive, individualized recommendations.
What is neurodiversity? Neurodiversity is a way of describing that people have diverse ways of thinking and approaching the world. These differences should be embraced and supported, rather than automatically viewed as "deficits." A neurodiversity perspective acknowledges that everyone has strengths and vulnerabilities, but conforming to one "right way" of thinking or approaching the world may not be appropriate for everyone. The term neurodiversity is often used to reduce stigma around diagnoses like autism, ADHD, and learning disabilities.