How can neuropsychology help
my child?
 Neuropsychology is the study of the relationship between
the brain and human behavior. A pediatric neuropsychologist
is a licensed psychologist with specialized training in how
brain functions and systems affect learning, behavior, and
child development. Neuropsychologists at Boswell Neuropsychology
have extensive graduate training in neuroscience and have
completed a rigorous 2-year postdoctoral fellowship (i.e,
clinical residency) in neuropsychology.
Brain function is assessed indirectly using formal neurocognitive
tests in a child-friendly environment. Children are given
written tasks, computer exercises, puzzles, and play activities.
A neuropsychological evaluation can answer important questions:
- Why does my child excel in some areas and have difficulty
in others?
- Does my child have a learning disability?
- Does my child
have an attention disorder (ADD/ADHD)?
- What does this
mean and what are the treatment
options?
- Is my child in the right school
or classroom to provide the maximal
opportunities for learning?
- Does my child require a special
curriculum or accommodations at
school?
- Is my child ready for
kindergarten?
- Is my child gifted?
 To answer these questions, a pediatric neuropsychologist
reviews medical and academic records; conducts interviews
with the parents and the child; observes and interacts with
the child; consults with other professionals familiar with
the child; administers a comprehensive battery of tests;
and interprets the data.
The result is diagnostic clarity and a treatment plan tailored
to your child. This information is discussed with parents
at a feedback meeting and is detailed in a written report.
The report includes specific, individualized recommendations
that have been shown to be effective for similar children.
Interventions can be implemented in concert with existing
professionals (e.g., educators, psychologists, physicians)
and with referrals and new resources introduced by the
neuropsychologist. |
