A pediatric neuropsychologist is a psychologist that has undergone specialty specific training in brain-behavior relationships from infancy to early adulthood. Such specialized training begins at the doctoral level, is extended at the internship level, and is followed by fellowship training at the postdoctoral level in clinical neuropsychology (see Dr. Kirmse’s about page for more information on her training). A formally trained neuropsychologist specializes in the application of assessment principles using scientific principles of human behavior in relation to brain functioning.

A neuropsychological evaluation is a comprehensive assessment that is conducted to understand how the brain works. It involves the use of various tests to evaluate specific brain functions (including thinking, behavior, and emotions). A neuropsychological examination may include assessment of:

• Intellectual abilities
• Learning and Memory
• Attention and Concentration
• Executive functioning
• Processing speed
• Language
• Visual perception
• Motor coordination skills
• Academic Achievement
• Emotional, social and behavioral functioning  

A neuropsychological evaluation can provide insight into areas of concern. For example, a neuropsychological evaluation can help:

• Identify patterns of strength and weakness in learning
• Monitor medication side effects (i.e., chemotherapy, radiation, antiseizure) for cognitive difficulties
• Assess neurocognitive functioning after a head injury or establish a baseline prior to sport participation
• Assess baseline functioning prior to medical interventions (i.e., brain surgery)

• Individuals with unexplained cognitive or memory difficulties, attention problems, or learning challenges. 
• An evaluation can provide a comprehensive understanding of a child’s strengths and weaknesses, which can help inform interventions and educational planning. 
• An evaluation can help distinguish symptoms that may overlap with other disorder and assist with diagnosing. 

Yes

Testing varies based on patient needs and can range from 4 to 6 hours. There is a break for lunch.

• An intake is the initial appointment with the child’s parent(s) to discuss concerns, obtain a thorough history, and determine if testing is appropriate.
• Testing will be a second appointment where your child will undergo a series of tests.
• Lastly, there will be a post testing (feedback) appointment where the parent(s) discuss the results and final report with the neuropsychologist.

It is important to bring the following:

• Medical records
• Assistive devices (such as prescription eye glasses or hearing aids, etc.) 
• A sweater in case in gets cold in the room
• Drink and snacks for breaks
• Notes from teachers and any education plans (IEP or section 504 plans), as well as any previous evaluations
• A list of current medications
• Rescue medications (such as for seizures or allergies, EpiPen)  

• Psychological or psychoeducational evaluations primarily focus on academic and/or emotional functioning, whereas neuropsychological evaluations are more comprehensive and focus brain-behavior relationships.
• The goal of a psychoeducational evaluation focuses on assessing academic functioning in relation to learning and education.
• The goal of a psychological evaluation is on assessing a personal mental and emotional functioning.
• Results of a neuropsychological evaluation can provide more comprehensive information that covers all domains related to brain-behavior (including cognitive and social/emotional) functioning.

Dr. Kirmse’s neuropsychological services are $275 per hour for consultations, which usually last one to two hours. A sliding scale fee is available for parents (Please contact us to inquire about our sliding scale fees). If a neuropsychological assessment is deemed beneficial for your child, the consultation fee will be deducted from the full assessment cost, which is payable on the day of testing.

Fees for neuropsychological testing vary based on the required services. The approximate cost is between $2000 and $3500, depending on factors like the referral questions, case complexity, and amount of testing needed. This range is a guideline; for specific cost details, please contact our office directly by phone or email.

Therapy fees are structured differently. Click here for more information.

Dr. Kirmse is not in network with any insurance company, as her goal is to provide families with the most comprehensive level of care that is not dictated by insurance companies. Families may file an out of network claim, and Dr. Kirmse is able to provide families with the documentation needed for them to obtain insurance reimbursement upon request. Dr. Kirmse is transparent about all pricing and offers a flat rate for her services up front.