Pediatric Neuropsychology
While many children with health problems may develop typically, certain factors such as prematurity, heart conditions, cerebral palsy, seizures, and brain injuries can impact central nervous system functioning, potentially putting a child at higher risk for developmental or intellectual concerns. At the Thompson Center, we recognize the importance of evaluating and monitoring cognitive functioning over time to maximize function and reduce stress.
About Pediatric Neuropsychology at the Thompson Center
Our comprehensive assessments are designed to detect and address developmental or cognitive challenges early on. By identifying potential concerns at an early stage, we can implement timely interventions and provide the necessary support to optimize the child’s developmental progress.
Our goal is to work closely with families, providing them with valuable insights and tailored recommendations to promote the best possible outcomes for their child’s cognitive development. By addressing these concerns proactively, we can empower children with health challenges to reach their full potential and thrive.
Benefits of Neuropsychological Evaluations
Neuropsychological evaluations play a crucial role in monitoring development, cognitive skills, mood, and behavior. Through these assessments, we identify strengths, challenges, and make targeted recommendations for schools, home environments, providers, and therapies. Our commitment to thorough evaluations ensures that children receive the tailored support needed to thrive in their neurodevelopmental journey.
What to Expect
The child will complete non-invasive tests with a technician that are similar to school tasks or thinking games. These tests are used to evaluate a variety of thinking skills, such as intelligence, development, academics, problem solving, language, attention, memory, learning, visual/spatial skills, motor skills, and mood/behavior. A neuropsychologist will interview the parent/caregiver about the child’s history and symptoms.
These evaluation appointments typically last up to four hours. Two weeks later, a neuropsychologist will meet with the family to review results, any diagnoses, and recommendations. A detailed report is provided with specific recommendations for optimal outcomes. In many cases, future evaluations are encouraged to monitor changes over time.
Neuropsychological Evaluations
The Thompson Center offers the following types of neuropsychological evaluations:
- Pediatric Neuropsychology Clinic: These evaluations are for patients aged 0-21 years without an autism diagnosis that have a known or suspected condition that may affect the central nervous system, such as seizures, genetic abnormalities, prematurity, cerebral palsy, endocrine/metabolic disorders, cancers, muscular dystrophies, or previous systemic infections.
- Autism Neuropsychology Clinic: These evaluations are for patients aged 3-21 years with a confirmed autism diagnosis and symptoms causing a concern for cognitive functioning, such as problems with memory, regression, or signs of an intellectual disability.
- Concussion Neuropsychology Clinic: These time-sensitive evaluations assess patients ages 0-21 with a concussion that occurred within the last six months. Patients with moderate to severe concussions or concussions that occurred longer than six months prior are typically evaluated through our Pediatric Neuropsychology Clinic instead.
Neuropsychological Therapies
The Thompson Center offers the following types of neuropsychological therapies:
- Habit Reversal Therapy: This 6-8 week clinical program uses a cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) approach to reduce motor or verbal tics that impact the daily functioning of individuals 8-21 years of age. Our Habit Reversal Therapy program specifically targets tics that are related to Tourette’s Disorder or Tic Disorder, not repetitive vocalizations or motor behaviors associated with autism. This therapy is best suited for individuals that are not experiencing significant complications related to co-occurring depression, anxiety, or behavioral issues.
- Post-Concussion Psychotherapy: This clinical program uses a cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) approach to address stress management, emotional distress, anxiety/depression, and pain management in relation to a concussion. Sessions are typically completed in a six-week timeframe. Concussion patients may be eligible for this program if they are between the ages of 8-21 years.
Insurance & Billing
These services are typically covered by most insurance programs, including Medicaid. Contact your insurance provider for detailed coverage information.
Getting Started
Fill out our online referral form or talk to child’s your pediatrician or neurologist to see if they are a good fit for our services.