Neuropsychological Assessment in Ottawa and Gatineau
Psychologists within our network 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 behaviour or development, an assessment can help clarify what is contributing to the difficulties.
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
- Language skills
- Motor skills
- Sensory-perceptual functioning
- Visuospatial abilities
- Brain imaging reports, when they already exist and are shared with the clinician
- Intelligence testing
Depending on the referral question and the person’s stamina, the assessment may be spread over more than one appointment. First, an intake interview is conducted to clarify the client’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 client. 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 client’s neurocognitive profile, including a description of any strengths and/or areas in need of support. Customized recommendations are then provided based on the needs of each client.
A feedback meeting is then offered to go over the findings. What is shared, and with whom, is discussed at the start of the process and depends on the client’s age, consent and the mandate.
The Neuropsychological Assessment Process
Procedure
A neuropsychological assessment includes an initial interview to understand the reasons for the consultation, testing and the scoring and interpretation of results, and the writing of an assessment report. The content of the report is then explained to the client during a final meeting.
Preparation
No special preparation is needed for the testing itself. The professional conducting the assessment may ask you to bring documents such as school report cards or previous assessment reports.
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
An assessment can support a diagnostic conclusion, when the professional is authorized to make one, and guide a support or rehabilitation plan. The findings can also point to the kinds of support and accommodations that may help a client manage day-to-day difficulties. For children, an assessment can provide information to help adapt teaching to their abilities. Without appropriate supports, some children experience more academic difficulty and frustration; the course varies from one child to another.
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, an assessment can inform the planning of school supports, including an individualized education plan. A school can put supports in place without a private assessment.
We look forward to hearing from you
Please contact us for any additional information or to request neuropsychology services, psychotherapy services, or a psychoeducational assessment.
The content on this site is for informational purposes only and does not replace a consultation with a qualified health professional.