What is a neuropsychological evaluation?

A neuropsychological evaluation is a comprehensive assessment of cognitive and behavioral functions using a set of standardized tests and procedures.  Skills are interpreted in the context of neuroanatomy and brain development.  The specific skills assessed may include:

• Intelligence
• Problem solving and conceptualization
• Attention, memory, and learning
• Language
• Academic skills
• Perceptual and motor abilities
• Emotions, behavior, and personality

Who might benefit from a pediatric neuropsychological evaluation?

Neuropsychological evaluation may be appropriate and helpful for some children with severe learning and/or behavior challenges associated with certain conditions such as a brain insult or medical disorders that impact brain development.  These may include:

• Traumatic brain injury
• Stroke
• Brain tumors and other childhood cancers (e.g., leukemia) where cognitive late effects are of concern
• Seizure disorders
• Metabolic or genetic disorders that impact the central nervous system
• Muscular Dystrophy
• Neurofibromatosis
• Hydrocephalus

Neuropsychological evaluation is not generally appropriate for children with significant developmental delay (e.g., mental retardation, autism).

Who will perform the evaluation?

Dr. Heather Adams, Ph.D., licensed clinical neuropsychologist, provides neuropsychology evaluation as a member of the interdisciplinary team at the Kirch Center, a program of Strong Center for Developmental Disabilities.  In addition to providing clinical services through the Kirch Center, Dr. Adams is also a member of the Division of Child Neurology. She joined the University of Rochester Medical Center faculty in 2003, providing clinical and research services to the Division of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology and other programs throughout Golisano Children’s Hospital at Strong.  She completed her graduate studies in Clinical Child Psychology at Southern Illinois University (Carbondale; 2001). Dr. Adams completed a clinical child psychology internship at the University of Rochester’s Department of Psychiatry (1998-1999) and then completed pre- and post-doctoral fellowships in Neuropsychology, UR Department of Neurology (1999-2003).

How do I find out more information about neuropsychology evaluation, scheduling, and obtaining an appropriate referral?

Further information about neuropsychological evaluation, including scheduling and obtaining insurance referrals, can be obtained by calling 275-2986 and asking to speak with Kathy Purcell.  For other information about services offered through the Kirch Center, please call our main line at 275-2986.

How do I find out information about other services offered at the Kirch Center?

For other information about services offered through the Kirch Center, please call our main line at 275-2986.