School Neuropsychological Evaluations

(Ages 5 – Adult)

This evaluation includes measures of intelligence, neural networks and neural circuits assessments of areas not captured by IQ testing, academic skill levels, as well as in depth measure of attention, executive function, emotional regulation, and social skills. This evaluation is optimal when insight into understanding the whole child and how their particular constellation of strengths and weaknesses and all domains assessed will impact success in managing life’s demands at home and in school.

The human brain consists of about 80 to 100 billion neurons, organized into neural “networks” that handle specific tasks. These networks process sensory information in a structured way, becoming more complex as they move from basic brain areas to advanced regions.

The effectiveness of these networks determines how well a person can handle social, emotional, and academic challenges as they arise. When these networks do not align with environmental demands, individuals may struggle, regardless of their overall intelligence. This can lead to awareness of their difficulties, causing frustration and feelings of inadequacy, which trigger stress responses like fight, flight, or freeze. In this state, individuals might demonstrate or experience avoidance, oppositional behavior, depressive symptoms, anxious symptoms, low self-esteem, and further academic difficulties.

Interacting Neural Networks

Neural Circuits for Academic Success

In every classroom setting, a specific set of prerequisite cognitive abilities and academic readiness is essential for effectively managing assigned tasks. When there is a misalignment between the necessary aptitudes and the student’s academic preparedness, the individual may perceive the environment as threatening, thereby triggering a fight, flight, or freeze response.

Attention and Executive Function Skills

The capacity to maintain attentional vigilance to non-preferred tasks, remain passive and patient, filter internal competing thoughts, and manage external stimuli and distractions, alongside the development of executive functioning skills that enhance learning, are pivotal characteristics of an individual’s interaction style with their environment. These attributes contribute significantly to success in traditional educational settings.

Emotional Regulation

The ability to objectively assess the level of threat within an environment is crucial. Upon perceiving a threat, it is essential for the individual to acknowledge and manage the emotions associated with this perception, while also developing regulatory mechanisms to control the innate impulses to fight, flee, or freeze.

Social Awareness

The capacity to discern the reality of the present moment while navigating social situations, understanding others’ perceptions, and adapting one’s interaction style for the benefit of the group is essential. This involves fostering intentionality within the social group, demonstrating leadership, as the group collectively strives to adapt to environmental demands to ensure survival.

FAQs

What Tests Will Be Used?

What exactly is tested in an evaluation?

Questions about Insurance, Reimbursements and Cost?

How long will it take to get my child on a pathway to success?

How it Works: Step by Step

Consultation & Scheduling

Call us or request a consultation through our website form. Our intake coordinator will explain the evaluation process, answer your questions, and find the best time for your child. To make our services accessible, our fees are structured based on the psychologist's experience (ranging from intern to senior licensed psychologist).

Gathering Insights

We'll ask you and your child's teachers to complete background information and rating scales. This helps us gain a comprehensive understanding.

Your Child's Evaluation

Your child will engage in 4-6 hours of assessments with a psychologist, usually spread over several sessions to ensure their comfort. Our goal is to highlight their strengths and identify areas where they might need support, making them feel comfortable and capable throughout.

Sharing Results & Planning

Within two weeks after testing, we'll meet with you to discuss the findings and create a personalized plan to help your child thrive. For older students, we may also suggest a meeting with them to discuss their strengths and how to best support their development.

Partnering with the School

If you wish and the school agrees, we'll collaborate in a meeting with the psychologist, parents, and school staff. This meeting will focus on your child's learning profile, strengths, and appropriate support strategies to help them reach their full potential.

(954) 577-3396