What to Expect From a Neuropsychological Evaluation

The idea of a neuropsychological evaluation can feel daunting, especially for a child who already feels tested enough. Knowing what happens at each step usually takes most of the worry out of it.

Step by Step

1. Free 15-minute consultation

A short call by phone or video to talk about the concern and decide whether a neuropsychological evaluation is the right next step. If it isn't, you'll hear that too.

2. Background and records

Dr. Tutty gathers a detailed history. For a child, that includes early development, learning history, emotional regulation and social life. For an adult after an injury, it includes work, home and social functioning and medical history before the injury. It helps to gather:

Report cards and standardized test scores
Any earlier evaluations, IEPs or 504 plans
Relevant medical records
Notes from teachers, therapists or doctors, if you have them

3. The testing day

Testing is done in person over one full day at 353 Lexington Ave. The tasks are a mix of puzzles, questions, memory tasks, reading, writing and math, and questionnaires about mood and behavior. There are breaks along the way. Part of the testing may be given by Katreace Moore, who provides supervised psychometric testing.

4. Feedback session

Once the tests are scored and interpreted, the results are reviewed with you in person or by video. Dr. Tutty explains what the testing found, what it means, and what he recommends. Bring your questions.

5. The written report

A full evaluation plus the report typically takes two to three weeks. The report covers the reason for the evaluation, the history, the tests given, the results, the interpretation, any diagnoses that fit, and recommendations for home, school or work, and treatment.

Preparing a Child for Testing

Tell them honestly what will happen: puzzles, questions and schoolwork-style tasks with a psychologist, and no shots.
Explain that nobody passes or fails, and that the goal is to find out how they learn best.
Make sure they get a normal night's sleep and eat breakfast.
Pack snacks, a water bottle, and glasses or hearing aids if they use them.
Ask about medications during the consultation rather than changing anything on your own.

Preparing as an Adult

Sleep as normally as you can the night before.
Bring glasses, hearing aids and a list of current medications.
Bring or send medical records ahead of time when possible.
If an attorney referred you, let the office know at the consultation.

Fees and Insurance

Fees follow a tier system, and each client receives a cost sheet showing the fee and initial retainer. The practice doesn't bill insurance directly, but provides paid invoices with insurance codes that you can submit to your insurer for reimbursement at your plan's contracted rate. One needs-based scholarship is offered each quarter for a family that couldn't otherwise afford an evaluation. See fees at Aspyre Psychology.

What to Expect