What is a pediatric neuropsychologist?
A pediatric neuropsychologist is a licensed psychologist who specializes in understanding brain health and behavior in children and teens.
Can you prescribe medications?
No. I am not a medical doctor and cannot prescribe medication. If you feel that your child is experiencing a problem for which some kind of medication might be helpful, we can discuss options for obtaining medical consultation. Of course, whether or not your child should take medication for any kind of problem is a decision that only you can make after talking to your child’s physician.
How long do sessions last? How often are they?
Testing usually takes 3-6 hours of face to face time with the child, plus a 90-minute parent interpretive conference.
What age range do you see?
Typically I treat children and adolescents between the ages of three through college age. I provide adult AD/HD and LD evaluations on a case by case basis.
I offer the Cogmed Working Memory Training Program to individuals across the lifespan, as there are programs offered for preschool age, school age, and adults.
How do I prepare my child for testing?
When I first talk to a child about testing, I tell them that the purpose of the testing is to figure out the best way that they learn. We all learn in unique ways and my job is to help figure out the best way for that child to learn. When we do this, often times aspects of school and life become easier for the child. I explain that we will do a variety of tasks; some items may seem very easy and others may be hard. No one gets everything correct and the most important rule is that they try their best. Sometimes the word "test" can raise anxiety in kids, especially for children who may be struggling at school. I tend to steer away from that word and replace it with words like "tasks" or "activities."
There is nothing to do to prepare a child for testing other than to try to make sure they get a good night's sleep and are well nourished. I encourage parents to bring a snack and drink to test sessions.
