Pediatric Neuropsychology

Why 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 population, neuropsychologists are specially trained to evaluate children who have medical and/or neurodevelopmental conditions affecting their cognitive functioning. Standardized tests are used to measure a child’s neurodevelopmental progress and to characterize cognitive areas of strength and weakness. Pediatric neuropsychologists interpret these test results and write an individualized report describing the child’s cognitive abilities. The report provides recommendations and resources that will help to guide educational planning, behavioral interventions, and other supportive services.

Who May Qualify for Referral?

• 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:
  
  

Neurological Disorders

• Epilepsy
• Cerebral palsy
• Spina bifida
• Hydrocephalus
• Tuberous sclerosis
• Brain tumors

Brain Injury

• Head trauma
• Infection
• Stroke
• Hypoxia/anoxia

Other Medical Conditions

• Prematurity
• Chronic heart/breathing problems
• Genetic disorders
• Diabetes
• Cancer treatment
• Early malnutrition/neglect
• Premature birth or very low birth weight

Developmental or School Problems

• Autism spectrum disorder
• Global developmental delay

Chemical Exposure

• Heavy metals (e.g., lead)
• Inhalants
• Illicit drugs

Prenatal Exposure

• Alcohol 
• Certain drugs

What is the Pediatric Neuropsychological Evaluation Process?

The evaluation process is comprehensive and tailored to each patient. There is an initial appointment, followed by a testing session and a feedback session. The evaluation assists with differential diagnosis and treatment planning. Diagnoses, prognosis, and treatment recommendations are discussed with family in the feedback session.

Making a Pediatric Neuropsychology Referral

• We accept self-pay, BCBS and CHP.
• We generate a formal report for families and referral providers within 30 days of the testing session.
• Unfortunately, we are unable to assess non-English speaking patients at this time.

For more information on pediatric neuropsychological services or to refer a patient, please call 850-431-5001.

How to Prepare

• 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 half day of testing (i.e., bring snacks, beverage, etc.) on your testing appointment day.
• A parent or legal guardian must accompany the child to all appointments.
• Please do not bring your child’s siblings to the testing appointment unless another adult is present for childcare.
• 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.
• Please arrange to have all relevant medical records, school records, and previous psychological evaluations sent to the clinic before your appointment. If needed records are not received, this could delay completion of the report.
• Arrive at least 15 minutes prior to all appointments for check-in. Late arrival to any appointments may result in rescheduling.

Our Process

• We will conduct an initial interview with parents only, please do not bring your child or their siblings.
• On a separate day, we will conduct your child’s testing. Testing will be completed in one appointment that lasts approximately 4 hours.
• Many tests are administered by technicians, under the direct supervision of Dr. Moltisanti.
• 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 days of the feedback session.

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TMH Physician Partners - Neurology Specialists
1401 Centerville Rd, Suite 504
Tallahassee, Florida 32308
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Phone: 850-431-5001
Fax: 850-431-6101

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