A Neuropsychological Evaluation is a comprehensive assessment that makes diagnostic and treatment recommendations based on data from multiple sources.

A typical Neuropsychological Evaluation, when prompted by academic and/or developmental concerns, will measure Intellectual functioning, Academic performance, Attentional capacity, Learning/Memory, Executive functioning, Language, Sensorimotor skills and Social-emotional functioning using standardized tests, parent and teacher interviews, school observations and behavior rating scales.

Within an academic context, Neuropsychological evaluations are typically prompted by learning, behavioral and/or social-emotional concerns. The purpose of the evaluation is to:

Neuropsychological Evaluations are an important part of the special education process since they are used to help optimize a students’ academic plan (i.e. IEP) and to make recommendations regarding classification and/or placement. 

Obtaining a private neuropsychological evaluation is a powerful way to advocate for your child since in addition to receiving a detailed report, the Neuropsychologist can participate in IEP meetings and/or testify at district hearings in order to explain the results of the evaluation and to help make sure their recommendations are interpreted correctly. 

Aside from a private attorney or advocate, the Neuropsychologist is often the only member of the IEP-team who is not employed by school or Department of Education, which places them in a position to advocate for the best interest of the child.