Neuropsychological Assessment
Ottawa and Gatineau
Our Psychologists conduct neuropsychological assessment and psychoeducational testing with children, adolescents, and adults. The results of testing can provide insights into the possible underlying causes of developmental and learning issues and help families better understand their child’s requirements and needs. A written report with findings and recommendations is also provided at the end of the process. If you are concerned about your child’s behavior, or development, a neuropsychological assessment can provide answers.
What is a Neuropsychological Assessment?
A neuropsychological assessment typically involves integrating information from a variety of sources to gain as full an understanding as possible of a person’s cognitive, motor, language, and executive functioning abilities. Examples of information that might be evaluated or reviewed as part of a neuropsychological assessment includes:
​
​
Medical history
​
Work history
​
Academic performance and functioning
(e.g., report cards, interviews with teachers)
​
Personality testing
​
Intelligence testing
​
​​
Language skills
​
Motor skills
​
Sensory-perceptual functioning
​
Visuospatial abilities
​
Brain imaging scans
​
An assessment at our neuropsychological Ottawa and Gatineau clinic typically takes place over the course of several days. First, an intake interview is conducted to clarify the patient’s reasons for seeking services, and to understand their past and current difficulties. Then, various neuropsychological tests and questionnaires may be administered based on the difficulties expressed by the patient. These are subsequently scored and interpreted before being integrated into an assessment report.
​
The assessment report provides a summary of all test results, questionnaire scores, and interview information. It also includes a detailed formulation of the patient’s neurocognitive profile, including a description of any strengths and/or areas in need of support. Customized recommendations are then provided based on the unique needs of each patient.
Finally, once the report has been written, a feedback appointment is scheduled to discuss the findings of the assessment and to distribute the report to the patient (or patient’s parents).
Our Neuropsychological Assessment Process
Procedure
A neuropsychological assessment takes place over several days and includes the following: an initial interview to understand the reasons for the consultation, testing and scoring interpretation, and writing of an evaluation report. The content of the report is then submitted and explained to the client during a final meeting.
Preparation
The neuropsychological assessment does not require any preparation. The neuropsychologist may ask you to bring certain documents such as school report cards or previous evaluation reports with you to the appointment.
POSSIBLE REASONS FOR NEUROPSYCHOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT
Suspected attention deficit disorder with or without hyperactivity (ADD/H)
Understanding the nature of persistent learning difficulties (psycho-educational assessments)
Screening and diagnosis for possible Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
Assessing intellectual functioning (developmental delay, intellectual disability, high potential)
Understanding the source of persistent difficulties related to motor control, coordination, and planning
Evaluating a cognitive profile following a traumatic brain injury
Any other neurological condition (e.g. Tourette syndrome, epilepsy)
Importance of Neuropsychological Assessment
Neuropsychological assessments are typically conducted to provide diagnoses and/or a treatment or rehabilitation plan for individuals experiencing cognitive or behavioural impairments. These assessments are important because they provide guidance on the types of support and modifications that are required to help patients cope with their impairments. For children, a neuropsychological assessment can provide information to help tailor their education to their abilities. If a child with cognitive impairments does not receive this guidance and support, their academic progress is likely to be slowed and marked by frustration and emotional difficulties.
A neuropsychological assessment serves as the foundation of understanding one’s cognitive strengths and weaknesses, as well as the overall integrity of brain functioning. For children, individualized educational plans (IEPs) should be based on the results of a comprehensive neuropsychological evaluation in order to be considered appropriate.
We look forward to hearing from you
Please contact us for any additional information or to request neuropsychology services, psychotherapy services, or psychoeducational assessment.