Neuropsychological Evaluations
What is it?
An examination of cognitive difficulties associated with neurologic, medical, and psychiatric disorders, including but not limited to:
- Brain-based conditions
- Genetic conditions
- ADHD or learning difficulties
- Organizational or executive weaknesses
- Psychiatric conditions impacting thinking, such as anxiety
For Children and Adults ages 4 to 40
Overview
A neuropsychological evaluation can help a person’s family, doctor, teacher, and/or therapist provide support and assistance to meet the person’s unique needs.
There are TWO PARTS to an evaluation:
First, an interview will be completed to ask questions about the person’s medical, academic, and developmental history, as well as questions related to the problems that have resulted in the need for the evaluation.
Next, a variety of tasks will be administered to assess problem-solving, academic skills (reading, math, etc.), concentration, memory for verbally or visually presented material, spatial skills, movement, and language. Rating scales are also often completed related to behavioral and emotional functioning.
An important feature of the evaluation is the FOLLOW-UP MEETING during which the results and recommendations from the evaluation will be discussed.
CONSULTATION can also be provided to families and school personnel to help tailor recommendations and accommodations within a school setting.
When can a Neuropsychology Evaluation Help?
- To assess difficulties in learning, attention, memory, or cognitive development. The evaluation can assist in accurate diagnosis and provide specific treatment recommendations.
- To monitor and assess progress and response to interventions and treatment for cognitive issues
- To provide documentation about an individual’s current level of functioning or change in functioning shortly after a mild brain injury (e.g., from a car accident, concussion, etc.).
- To assess the current impact of early perinatal events (e.g., birth trauma, low birth weight, other complications) on a child’s current developmental level.
- To evaluate the need for supports or accommodations for standardized testing or school settings
- To assist with the transition to adulthood by identifying potential barriers to independence, as well as identifying resources for supports as an adult.
REFERRALS
Individuals are often referred by therapists, psychiatrists, neurologists, pediatricians, other physicians, and school systems.
Clinicians
Christine L. Trask, PhD, ABPP
At a Glance
- Children, Adolescents, & Young Adults (Ages 3–30)
- Neuropsychological Evaluations
- Medical & Cognitive Assessment Expertise
Specialties
Neuropsychological Assessment • ADHD • Learning Disorders • Brain-Based Conditions • Medical-Related Cognitive Changes
Approach to Evaluation
Dr. Trask is a clinical pediatric neuropsychologist with over 20 years of experience. She conducts comprehensive neuropsychological evaluations to better understand how brain functioning impacts attention, memory, problem-solving, organization, and the ability to adapt to change.
Her evaluations provide a detailed understanding of an individual’s cognitive strengths and challenges, supporting accurate diagnosis and helping guide targeted recommendations for treatment, learning, and development.
Areas of Expertise
Dr. Trask has extensive experience working with children and families navigating cognitive symptoms related to medical conditions such as epilepsy, cancer, hydrocephalus, sickle cell disease, prematurity, genetic disorders, and head trauma.
She also works with individuals with ADHD, learning disorders, and emotional conditions that impact thinking and academic functioning.
Background & Experience
Dr. Trask completed her undergraduate degree at Bates College and earned her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from St. Louis University. She completed her internship in child clinical psychology with a specialization in neuropsychology at the University of Rochester Medical Center, followed by a fellowship in neuropsychology at the University of Michigan Medical Center.
She helped re-establish pediatric neuropsychology services within Rhode Island/Hasbro Children’s Hospital and has been board-certified in clinical neuropsychology since 2008. She is also a member of the International Neuropsychological Society and the American Academy of Clinical Neuropsychology.
Teaching & Mentorship
Dr. Trask is committed to the training and development of future professionals in neuropsychology. She has served in a variety of teaching and supervisory roles at the Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University and the University of Rhode Island, mentoring doctoral students, postdoctoral psychologists, and early-career clinicians.
Her website is www.cognatetestingservice.com.