Pediatric Neuropsychology
What is a pediatric neuropsychologist? Pediatric neuropsychologists focus on the developing cognitive skills of a child, together with the educational, emotional, and behavioral needs of the child. Commonly, the neuropsychologist assesses a child to provide diagnostic information to their parents, doctors, therapists and educators, then helps the family put into place a treatment plan which takes into account the child’s individual strengths and weaknesses. Neuropsychologists have different backgrounds. Some are focused on adolescent/ adult issues, geriatic issues, or forensic issues. Pediatric neuropsychologists (those that limit their practice to very young children through adolescents) are trained in the development of the brain and cognitive skills, and how these skills interact with their performance in school, families, with peers, and meeting their daily living skills. For more information on pediatric neuropsychology from the neuropsychology division of the American Psychological Association, click here.
What is involved in a neuropsychology evaluation? As no two children or families are alike, each evaluation and treatment plan varies. The process begins with obtaining detailed medical, developmental and social history about the child. The first appointment usually lasts two hours beginning with an in depth interview with Dr. Hagerott to go over all the information provided. During this appointment, the doctor and family will discuss the need for testing. If testing is recommended, this will be scheduled for a later date. Information may be collected from the child’s teacher, school, other doctors, prior evaluations and therapists working with the child. Finally, the parents and Dr. Hagerott will meet again to go over the testing and data, discuss the child’s needs, and formulate a plan to address the findings. If testing is not needed; or after the testing feedback appointment, intermittent appointments may be scheduled to further assist the family with their concerns about the child, address behavioral or educational issues, respond to questions, and continue to refine the treatment plan.
Who completes the testing on my child? Commonly, many neuropsychologists meet with a family/ patient and then have an assistant (psychometrician, often possessing a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology or related field, but does not have a professional degree or license) complete the testing instead of the neuropsychologist. We utilize the services of a psychometrician and they perform limited testing on the child. This will be discussed in advance with the family.
Can I see a neuropsychologist if I am working with other mental health professionals? Absolutely. It is common for a child to be working with a child or family psychologist and also receive a neuropsychological evaluation. Many mental health professionals, psychiatrists and therapists recommend testing of children to provide additional information which may contribute to the therapy or treatment process. Dr. Hagerott encourages parents to form an appropriate team of professionals to work together to assist the child and family. With parent consent, she will communicate with other professionals involved in your child’s care.