Take a look at our frequently asked questions

And feel free to ask more.

What is neuropsychology?

Neuropsychology is the study of the relationship between the brain and behavior. Through neuropsychology, clinicians strive to understand the psychological and cognitive effects of neurological or neurodevelopmental conditions.

What is a comprehensive neuropsychological evaluation?

A comprehensive neuropsychological evaluation is an assessment that provides detailed information about a child’s cognitive, psychological, social, behavioral and/or academic functioning. The information gathered helps to explain why a child could be exhibiting challenges in the home, school, or social setting. The specific domains an evaluation can cover include:

Intelligence
Visual and verbal learning/memory
Expressive and receptive language
Fine motor skills
Visual motor/visual-spatial abilities
Attention
Executive functioning, such as inhibition, working memory, cognitive flexibility and planning/organization
Academic skills, which are compared to a child’s cognitive skills to detect if an underlying learning disability is present
Social cognition and communication

What does a neuropsychological evaluation do for my child?

An evaluation…

Provides insight into how an ongoing neurodevelopmental (e.g., autism, ADHD) or a medical concern is impacting a child’s cognitive processing.
offers comprehensive information about cognitive processes that contribute to a child’s behavior and ability to regulate emotions.
Reveals how a child learns best, which can apply to learning academic or therapeutic skills.
Identifies specific learning disabilities in reading, writing or math.
Provides targeted intervention strategies to help a child succeed.

What is involved in the evaluation process?

An evaluation includes approximately 5-9 hours of assessment across one or two days. Once testing is completed and all information has been gathered, the family sits with the neuropsychologist to discuss all results. Within 1-2 weeks following the discussion of results, a comprehensive report that documents all of the findings and individualized recommendations is be sent to the parents and others (e.g., school, pediatrician, intervention specialists) with consent. If deemed clinically appropriate, a more focused neuropsychological evaluation—including a brief assessment and consultation required for concussion or medical monitoring and treatment planning—is available upon request.

What if I suspect my child has autism?

Our evaluation assesses for all types of neurodiversity, including a possible autism spectrum disorder. It is appropriate for children and adolescents who exhibit difficulties with social development, communication/language and rigid tendencies or repetitive behaviors. If autism is a concern, families may choose between a comprehensive evaluation or a diagnostic service, which is a brief evaluation focused on a child’s intellectual (IQ), adaptive and social functioning.

In an evaluation covered by insurance?

Most services McGill Neuropsychology provides are “insurance friendly” and could be covered in full or partially by several out-of-network medical or mental health insurance plans. We provide families with all costs prior to an appointment and will not exceed the cost provided unless you request additional services during the visit and agree to extra costs with the provider. The necessary paperwork to file a claim with your insurance company will be issued after all services are rendered and the final payment has been received. Payment plans are available upon request.

What should I expect during the evaluation day?

During the evaluation, the parents will complete a thorough clinical interview with the neuropsychologist. Children will receive quick breaks throughout the evaluation and a longer lunch break mid-day. Testing typically begins in the morning and finishes in the afternoon, although your clinician will clarify specific time frames.

What should I bring on the day of the evaluation?

Please make sure your child has all of the things typically needed for a school day, including glasses, a water bottle, snacks and a packed lunch (if you intend to eat on-site).

Does a parent need to be on-site during the appointment?

For all minors under the age of 18, a parent or caretaker must remain on-site.

Contact us to learn more or speak to one of our team members.

Our Locations:

BETHESDA, MD
4416 East West Highway, Suite 201
Bethesda, MD 20814

McLEAN, VA
8401 Greensboro Drive, Suite 550
McLean, VA 22012

Phone: (703) 951-7527

Fax: (571) 402-1136

All content on this website is created and published for informational purposes only. No material is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment and should not be relied upon as such.

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