What Is a Neuropsychological Evaluation?

The term, neuropsychological evaluation is far from descriptive. Many families arrive in my office uncertain, holding consent forms and banker boxes of records, wondering if I’ll be able to help, their faces betraying a mix of hope and worry. I try to reassure them: the process is straightforward when explained in human language.

Why Consider Neuropsychological Testing

A neuropsychological evaluation answers one core question:

How is the brain supporting, or complicating, daily life? 

Traditional IQ or achievement tests only skim the surface. Neuropsychological testing dives deeper, measuring attention, memory, language, and executive functioning skills in context.

Common reasons for referral include concerns about autism, ADHD, learning differences such as dyslexia or dyscalculia, or unexplained struggles with planning and organization.

What Happens Before the Appointment

Assessment starts long before test booklets appear. A thorough parent interview gathers developmental history, medical background, and observations from caregivers, educators, and/or employers. Clear referral questions are important to keep the evaluation focused and meaningful.

Inside the Testing Day

I schedule session based on what my clients can tolerate. Some last an hour, others three. We take breaks based on what individuals needs, sometimes every fifteen minutes.  

Tests are interactive, like puzzles, memory recall, problem-solving tasks, different from graded exams. Each task targets a specific brain function. For example, rapid naming exercises probe language processing, while trail-making tasks reveal how efficiently the brain switches focus. For clients as young as 18 months, play-based methods and parent input replace formal tasks to ensure developmental appropriateness.

How Results Are Interpreted

Data means nothing without context. Scores are compared to age-based norms, but interpretation centers on patterns, where strengths and challenges intersect. A child might show average intelligence yet struggle with visual-motor skills, explaining messy handwriting. An adult could excel verbally yet miss social cues tied to autism. Feedback stays free of jargon so families, schools, and providers can act on them.

Delivering Actionable Recommendations

A clear road map follows every evaluation:

• Concrete classroom or workplace strategies

• Evidence-based interventions for cognitive differences, like ADHD or dyslexia

• Referrals for speech, occupational therapy, or counseling when needed

• A summary written in plain language for educators, physicians, and, most importantly, the client

The goal is forward motion, not a final label.

Why Location Matters

Serving Northern California means understanding local school systems, regional resources, and state regulations. Insight into Bay Area public and private services allows recommendations that families can actually access. 

Taking the First Step

If questions about attention, learning, or behavior keep surfacing, a neuropsychological evaluation can bring clarity. You are welcome to call me to start with a brief consultation to outline concerns and determine fit. This process takes time and collaboration, but  can replace years of uncertainty with informed next steps.

Dr. Sara Rice Schiff provides neuropsychological evaluations for children, adolescents, and adults, specializing in learning differences including autism, ADHD, dyslexia and others. Based in Northern California, she is committed to clear communication and evidence-based care.