Neuropsychology

Child neuropsychology is a medical specialty that focuses on evaluating emotional, thinking, learning and behavioral effects of complex conditions and injuries that affect the brain and nervous system.

Some of the conditions that most often can benefit from a neuropsychological evaluation include:

• Cerebral palsy.
• Epilepsy and seizures.
• Brain injury and related neurotrauma, including concussions.
• Spina bifida.
• Muscular dystrophy and other neuromuscular conditions.
• Attention and memory problems related to neurological conditions and injuries.
• Behavioral issues related to complex conditions and injuries.

Although each child follows a unique care path, pediatric neuropsychologists typically perform an initial evaluation to provide baseline information. The information gathered from an initial evaluation can help identify problems and allow for tracking as skills and behaviors change. Evaluations might include neuropsychological testing and gathering information from family members, caregivers, other health care providers and teachers.

After an evaluation, treatment can include home, school and community interventions, additional neuropsychological assessments or care from a specialist.