Pediatric Neuropsychology

What Is Pediatric Neuropsychological Testing?

Neuropsychologists are psychologists who have specialized training in brain anatomy, neuropathology, brain-behavior relationships and the evaluation of brain-based abilities. In the pediatric patient population, neuropsychologists are specially-trained to evaluate learning and behavior relevant to brain development. Standardized tests are used that measure a wide range of mental abilities based on various areas of the brain and their interconnections. Following testing, pediatric neuropsychologists review and analyze the results and generate a report that outlines a child’s cognitive strengths and weaknesses while providing resources that will be applicable to each individual case.

Patients We Treat:

  • Patients must be medically stable and without grossly impaired vision or hearing.
  • Patients must be 3 – 17 years of age.
  • Patients who possibly exhibit the following conditions below

Conditions We Treat

Developmental or School Problems

  • Autism spectrum disorder
  • Pervasive developmental disorder
  • ADHD
  • Learning disorders

Chemical Exposure

  • Lead
  • Inhalants
  • Street drugs

Neurological Disorders

  • Epilepsy
  • Cerebral palsy
  • Spina bi da
  • Hydrocephalus
  • Tuberous sclerosis
  • Brain tumors

Prenatal Exposure

  • Alcohol
  • Smoking
  • Certain drugs

Other Medical Conditions

  • Prematurity
  • Chronic heart/breathing problems
  • Genetic disorders
  • Diabetes
  • Cancer treatment

Brain Injury

  • Head trauma
  • Infection
  • Stroke
  • Lack of oxygen

Services

Welcome to the Pediatric Neuropsychology service at Physician Partners - Neurology Specialists. We are committed to providing the best healthcare possible and here to answer any questions you may have during your child’s evaluation process.

Let’s be prepared

  • Healthy sleep the night before testing is important; please reschedule if your child falls ill.
  • Remember to bring your child’s glasses, hearing aids, and/or other assistive devices.
  • Bring comfort items such as your child’s favorite blanket, stuffed animal, action figure, etc.
  • Administer or bring your child’s regularly scheduled medications.
  • Plan for a full day of testing (i.e., bring snacks, lunch, and/or cafeteria money) on your initial appointment day.

Let’s be punctual

  • Arrive at Suite 504, at least 15 minutes prior to all appointments, for check-in (directions enclosed).
  • The parent/guardian will be interviewed for approximately 60 minutes at the outset of the rst appointment.

Let’s embrace flexibility

  • Children younger than 12 years are typically scheduled for two separate “half-day” sessions, held one week apart.
  • Those 12 years and up are typically seen for one “full day” session (6-7 hours) with a lunch break.
  • Many tests are administered by technicians, under the direct supervision of Dr. Turpin.
  • A parent or legal guardian must accompany the child to all appointments.
  • Please do not bring your child’s siblings to the initial appointment unless another adult is present for childcare the first 1-2 hours.
  • Complete the Pediatric Neuropsychology Questionnaire (may take 20-30 minutes) before your initial appointment; incomplete questionnaires will delay your appointment time or result in rescheduling.
  • Return from breaks within the time allotted (usually 5-10 minutes).
  • Return from lunch within the time allotted (usually 30-50 minutes).
  • Late arrival to any appointments may result in rescheduling.
  • Results are typically provided in a feedback session, held 2 weeks after the last day of testing.
  • A written report (results, diagnostic impressions, and recommendations) is typically made available within 30 business days of the feedback session.

Patient Forms