Neuropsychological Assessment Frequently Asked Questions
- Testing is time consuming and expensive; why should I have my child assessed?
In our current medical system, both providers and patients feel that we often work backwards to accurately identify issues or problems. Many of the children that come to our clinic have already been to several different providers, and have received various diagnoses and multiple forms of treatment. Often, treatment recommendations include medications or other costly interventions. Without a conclusive diagnosis, treatment providers may feel as though they are just guessing about what may be effective. Testing, while it is not recommended for all situations, can save the family time and money by giving a more definitive diagnosis and appropriate recommendations for treatment right away.
- How long does a neuropsychological assessment last?
Typically a neuropsychological assessment goes from 4 to 6 hours. The assessment time is split into two sessions, the first lasting from 2 to 4 hours, and the second session lasting approximately 2 hours. Some appointments may be shorter and others longer. The length of the assessment depends on various factors, including the complexity of the presenting problem, the age of the child, the availability of corroborative information, attention span,and energy levels/fatigue. One or two short breaks are typically taken during each session.
- Why does your office need all of this information prior to scheduling an appointment?
The entire assessment process does not only include current testing scores and levels of functioning, but it also includes past performance measures, previous medical conditions and observed behaviors. Dr. Clausen takes the entire lifespan of the child into consideration, investigating increases or decreases in functioning, patterns of performance and previous diagnoses. In addition, many of the tests we give have “practice effects” and thus cannot be repeated within a certain timeframe.
- Who will work with my child?
The neuropsychological evaluation is done by Dr. Clausen who has had specialized training and experience in the field. This includes:
- Predoctoral training in psychology, neuropsychology, test construction and measurement.
- Formal training in neuroanatomy, neuropsychology and clinical neurology.
- Postdoctoral training focusing on brain-behavior relationships and neuropsychological assessment.
- Specialized training in developmental psychology, which encourages a combination of developmental knowledge with information about brain/behavior relations\hips in children.
Dr. Clausen will meet with your child for an interview and observation. A specially trained technician will do the actual testing. This technician or “psychometrist” has received advanced training on how to administer the tests.
- Who should come to the appointments?
- During the initial appointment, Dr. Clausen will interview the parent(s)/legal guardian(s). Since consent forms and release of information forms need to be signed make sure that the person attending this meeting has the legal authority to do this. Step-parents or relatives who do not have legal custody or guardianship cannot give permission for testing or sign legal documents. No children should be present during this appointment.
- On the testing days, the child should be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
For the feedback session the parent(s)/legal guardian(s) should attend the appointment. In addition, all other interested parties who provide care for your child are encouraged to attend. This includes but is not limited to county social workers, school personnel, and counselors/therapists who work with your child. Siblings of your child should NOT attend the feedback session. Again, please leave siblings at home, in daycare or at school.
- Who should not come to the appointment?
The waiting area at Developmental Diagnostics is very small. There is not room for groups of people. Please leave your child’s siblings at home, in daycare, or in school.
- Do I have to stay for the entire appointment?
Simply stated – YES! During the first part of the appointment you will be asked to complete behavioral questionnaires. Once you are done with them, you need to remain in the waiting area so that we can quickly reach you if your child needs you. Be prepared by bringing something to do while your child is being tested.
- What should I do with my child during testing breaks?
This depends upon the age of your child. It is highly recommended that you bring nutritional snacks and a beverage (NOT SODA) for your child during breaks. Your child will likely need physical activity during the break, so please be prepared to go outside for a walk. Do not bring handheld video games with to the appointment. This is NOT what your child needs during break.
- How long do I have to wait for the neuropsychologist’s report?
Most reports will be completed within 4-6 weeks following the final feedback session. Report production may be delayed, though, in cases where we are awaiting receipt of critical information such as teacher report forms. Please inform our office if the report is needed by a specific date (for medical appointments, school meetings, etc.) We will try to have the completed report to you by that date.