When I am evaluating a child or an adult, my goal goes beyond determining the label(s) for “diagnosis.” My goal is to help patients, parents, spouses, caregivers, educators, and treatment providers understand WHY a child, adult, or elder is struggling. Things that look like what someone “won’t” do may be something that he or she “can’t” do. Or not. In either case, to figure out the interventions and accommodations that will help (and those that won’t), it is critical to clarify what is giving rise to the problem(s) to begin with. A comprehensive neuropsychological evaluation should do just that.

When findings of a child’s assessment are discussed, parents should feel, “I am understanding my child.” Adult patients who have been assessed should feel, “I am understanding myself.” Significant others and caregivers should have comparable insight. The report that is generated to describe the findings should be written in plain English, so anyone with whom it is shared will understand it as well. The more clearly those involved in a child’s, adult’s or elder’s life understand what is driving his or her difficulties, the more confident and empowered all will feel in moving forward to implement the treatments, accommodations or services that are indicated by the assessment.