Frequently Asked Questions
What is pediatric neuropsychology?
Pediatric neuropsychology is a specialized branch of clinical psychology that focuses on understanding how brain function impacts learning, behavior, and other cognitive skills that are important for daily functioning.
Who is referred?
Children and adolescents are commonly referred for a neuropsychological evaluation by a pediatrician, neurologist, counselor, or other health care professional. Common reasons for referral include:
- Difficulties with attention, memory, learning, socialization, and/or behavior
- An acquired injury (e.g., traumatic brain injury)
- A neurological condition (e.g., epilepsy, cerebral palsy, brain tumor, spina bifida, hydrocephalus)
- Other medical conditions (e.g., prematurity, prenatal drug exposure, genetic disorders, cancer)
Do you diagnose autism?
No, Dr. Sherwood is not an Autism Evaluation Provider (AEP).
For Providers: How can I refer a patient?
Below is our referral form. Please download, complete, and fax it to 855-702-2520.
Referral Form
What insurances are accepted?
Presbyterian, Blue Cross/Blue Shield, United/Optum Behavioral Health, Molina, and Western Sky.
Families interested in self-pay may contact Dr. Sherwood to obtain an estimate of the cost for an evaluation.
What will happen the day of the evaluation?
A typical neuropsychological evaluation is scheduled for the length of a school day. Depending on the child’s age and the reason for referral, an evaluation generally includes:
- Clinical interview with the child and his or her caregivers
- Detailed developmental and medical histories
- Parent and self-report questionnaires
- Parents may also be asked to give questionnaires to their child’s teacher
- Standardized testing, including tests of
- Intellectual Function
- Learning and Memory
- Attention
- Executive Functioning
- Language
- Visual Spatial Skills
- Fine Motor Skills
- Academic Achievement
How can I prepare my child for the day of the evaluation?
You can prepare your child for the evaluation similar to how you would prepare them for a school day; such as getting a good night sleep, having breakfast, taking medicine as prescribed, and bringing eyeglasses or hearing aids (if appropriate).
Children can be informed that it will be as long as a school day and feel similar in that they will be using their thinking skills to complete different activities on an iPad and with a pencil on paper.
Children will have short breaks (as needed) during the evaluation day including a 45-minute lunch break away from the office.
When will I get the results?
Results are provided in a feedback appointment 2 to 3 weeks after the initial evaluation. Parents are also provided with a comprehensive report that discusses results, diagnoses, and recommendations.
How can an evaluation be helpful?
A comprehensive neuropsychological evaluation can provide you with information about:
- Your child’s cognitive strengths and weaknesses
- Why your child may be struggling in school
- Appropriate interventions and community resources
- Recommendations specific to the school setting such as academic accommodations, direct services, specific therapies, and appropriate classroom placement
- How to help your child reach their full potential