Neuropsychology is the study of the relationship between brain functioning and behavior. Clinical neuropsychologists are licensed psychologists with specialized training in how brain systems affect thinking, learning, emotions, and behavior across the lifespan.

A neuropsychological evaluation helps clarify how the brain is functioning and how this impacts daily life—at home, at school, at work, and in relationships. Evaluations are appropriate for children, adolescents, adults, and older adults who experience concerns related to attention, memory, learning, mood, behavior, or social functioning.

Most importantly, a neuropsychological evaluation provides clarity, understanding, and a roadmap forward.

WHEN IS A NEUROPSYCHOLOGICAL EVALUATION HELPFUL?

An evaluation may be helpful when there are concerns about:

• Attention, concentration, or executive functioning

• Memory or learning difficulties

• Academic or workplace performance

• Emotional regulation, mood, or behavior

• Social skills or interpersonal functioning

• Developmental delays or differences

• Neurological or medical conditions affecting cognition

Neuropsychological evaluations are also useful for identifying strengths, giftedness, and individual learning styles, helping individuals better understand how they think and learn.

WHO BENEFITS FROM A NEUROPSYCHOLOGICAL EVALUATION?

Individuals may seek an evaluation to:

• Understand current cognitive functioning

• Identify learning or attentional differences

• Clarify diagnostic questions

• Guide treatment, educational planning, or accommodations

• Improve self-understanding and optimize strengths

Following the evaluation, results are reviewed in a feedback session and summarized in a comprehensive written report with clear, individualized, evidence-based recommendations.

WHAT CAN I EXPECT FROM A NEUROPSYCHOLOGICAL EVALUATION?

1. Clinical Interview

The evaluation begins with a detailed interview to review developmental, medical, educational, and psychosocial history, as well as current concerns.

2. Comprehensive Testing

Standardized, evidence-based measures are used to assess areas such as:

• Intellectual functioning

• Academic skills

• Attention and executive functioning

• Learning and memory

• Language and communication

• Visual-spatial abilities

• Motor coordination

• Emotional, behavioral, and social functioning

Adult evaluations typically involve 1–2 days (approximately 5–10 hours) of individual testing, depending on clinical needs.

3. Consultation

With permission, consultation with other professionals (e.g., physicians, educators, therapists) may occur to ensure a complete understanding of the individual’s functioning.

4. Interpretation & Integration

Results are interpreted using age- and education-based norms and integrated across domains to create a cohesive understanding of strengths and challenges.

5. Report & Recommendations

A detailed report is provided outlining findings, diagnoses (when applicable), and practical, actionable recommendations for treatment, accommodations, and next steps.

6. Referrals

When appropriate, referrals may be made to specialists such as educational therapists, speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, psychologists, psychiatrists, neurologists, or other medical providers.

PEDIATRIC NEUROPSYCHOLOGY

Pediatric neuropsychology focuses on how brain development affects learning, behavior, and emotional regulation in children and adolescents.

Evaluations are conducted in a supportive, child-friendly environment using developmentally appropriate, standardized measures. Tasks may include verbal and written activities, problem-solving, computer-based tasks, and interactive exercises.

A pediatric evaluation can help answer questions such as:

• Why does my child excel in some areas and struggle in others?

• Does my child have a learning disability or attention disorder?

• Is Autism a concern?

• Is my child gifted?

• Is my child receiving appropriate educational support or accommodations?

• How do medical or developmental factors affect learning?

WHAT IS INVOLVED IN A PEDIATRIC EVALUATION?

• Review of medical and academic records

• Parent and child interviews

• Direct observation and interaction

• Consultation with teachers and other providers (with consent)

• Comprehensive standardized testing

• Integrated interpretation and summary

Pediatric evaluations typically involve two days (5–10 hours) of testing, depending on the child’s needs.

Parents attend a feedback session where results and recommendations are reviewed in detail, and a tailored treatment plan is developed.

HOW DOES A NEUROPSYCHOLOGICAL EVALUATION DIFFER FROM A SCHOOL EVALUATION?

School-based evaluations focus primarily on academic achievement and eligibility for school services.

A neuropsychological evaluation provides a broader, deeper understanding of brain-based functioning, integrating cognitive, emotional, behavioral, and social factors. This comprehensive perspective often leads to more targeted and effective educational, therapeutic, and parenting strategies.

CONTACT INFORMATION

Dr. Erica Felsenthal, PhD
Clinical Neuropsychologist
9201 Wilshire Boulevard, Suite 301
📞 (310) 995-9432
✉️ drericafels@gmail.com