Child neuropsychological assessment
Contributes to the diagnosis of neurodevelopmental disorders (ADHD, ASD...)
What is a neuropsychological assessment?
A neuropsychological assessment is carried out by a psychologist specialised in neuropsychology. It is a snapshot evaluation of cognitive resources and behavioural functioning using standardised psychometric tools.
It can be offered from age 4 up to 16/18.
Why have an assessment?
Difficulties observed
- Learning delays
- Academic difficulties
- Behavioural problems
- Adjustment difficulties
Objectives
- Understand how the child functions
- Identify strengths
- Support an administrative process
- Suggest suitable accommodations
Areas assessed
- Intellectual efficiency
- Attention and executive functions
- Memory
- Behavioural and emotional functioning
The neuropsychological assessment and neurodevelopmental disorders
The neuropsychological assessment contributes to the diagnosis of a neurodevelopmental disorder and other commonly associated conditions.
ADHD - Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Characteristics of ADHD
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects around 5% of school-age children, i.e. one to two children per class. It may present as "inattention" alone, as isolated "hyperactivity/impulsivity", or as a combined form.
Inattention
Difficulty sustaining attention, finishing a task, tendency to be distracted...
Hyperactivity
Excessive motor restlessness, difficulty staying seated, excessive talking...
Impulsivity
Tendency to interrupt others, difficulty waiting one's turn...
How is ADHD diagnosed?
- The diagnosis of ADHD is medical, meaning it is made by a physician trained in neurodevelopmental disorders (usually a paediatrician, neuropaediatrician or child psychiatrist). It is a clinical diagnosis, meaning no single test can diagnose ADHD on its own.
- It requires an in-depth investigation of symptoms and their impact across different areas of daily life.
- The neuropsychological assessment is not essential for a diagnosis, but it is a valuable tool for understanding how the child functions and helping to build a support plan.
ASD - Autism Spectrum Disorder
Characteristics of ASD
ASD is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterised by the following pair of symptoms:
Difficulties with communication and social interaction
Reduced social and emotional reciprocity, limited eye contact, lack of variety in facial expressions, difficulty initiating and responding to social interactions...
Restricted and repetitive behaviours and interests
Intolerance of change, restricted interests, repetitive movements, sensory sensitivity...
How is ASD diagnosed?
- Here again, the diagnosis is medical, as part of a pathway coordinated by a specialised physician. It is a clinical diagnosis; no single test can diagnose ASD on its own.
- The process requires a multidimensional and multidisciplinary evaluation.
- The clinical evaluation offered using specialised tools (ADI-R, ADOS-2...) as part of the assessment contributes to the diagnostic process.
Need an assessment?
Contact me to discuss your questions and schedule a personalised evaluation.