School based assessments (also known as psychoeducational assessments) are typically performed with one goal in mind: to determine whether a child qualifies for special education programs or related services (i.e., speech, OT, PT, counseling). School based assessments focus almost exclusively on intellectual and academic skills. Although this type of evaluation is enough for some children, it is not comprehensive enough for most children. A neuropsychological evaluation looks at many more areas of neuropsychological functioning (i.e., long term memory and retrieval, verbal fluency, rapid automatic naming, more in-depth academic assessments). If a school evaluation comes back “average,” but you still feel that your child is struggling, a neuropsychological evaluation will give you answers.

Children and adolescents are usually referred for a neuropsychological evaluation by a parent, doctor, teacher, school psychologist, or other professional for many reasons:

An evaluation may be helpful if your child:

• Struggles in school despite good attendance, effort, and attention

• Has reading, writing, or spelling difficulties or a family history of dyslexia

• Math difficulties

• Has trouble with attention, behavior, emotional regulation, or social skills

• Has a history of ADHD, autism, neurological, medical, or developmental concerns

• Experienced early speech, motor, or developmental delays

• Is bright or gifted but not performing as expected

• A brain injury or concussion

• It is possible that a child may be “gifted” and proper documentation is required

• To document a child’s current functioning (a “baseline”) or assess progress or change (a re-evaluation or follow-up evaluation)

A neuropsychological evaluation can provide helpful documentation and recommendations that support the need for school-based services. However, we cannot guarantee that a child will qualify for an IEP or 504 Plan. Eligibility for school supports is determined by the school-based team and the parent during a CSE (Committee on Special Education) or 504 meeting, based on a review of multiple sources of data including, but not limited to, our evaluation. We are happy to provide a detailed report and collaborate with your school team as needed.

Treatment is tailored to each individual’s needs, so the length of therapy can vary. In most cases, we meet once a week for 45 minute sessions over the course of several months.

Yes! Dr. Duhning offers virtual and in-person therapy sessions.

Dr. Duhning is conveniently located in Manhasset, NY.

Call 516-847-5577 or email drduhning@duhningpsychservices.com. Please leave a message and I will get back to you within a few hours.

Duhning Psychological Services PLLC is an out-of-network provider and does not accept insurance. Many insurance companies offer out-of-network benefits which provide reimbursement for psychotherapy or neuropsychological evaluations. The practice can provide you with all of the necessary information in order to submit for reimbursement through your insurance company. Dr. Duhning offers a certain number of sliding scale spots as well for families who do not have the finances to pay the normal fee.