Neuropsychology Program
Expert neuropsychology care for children with medical and developmental concerns
Neuropsychology at Children’s Minnesota is part of our Neurodevelopmental program. In partnership with our Developmental Behavioral Pediatrics clinic, we provide a medical home for assessment, diagnosis and ongoing care for children with medical and neurodevelopmental concerns.
Neuropsychology focuses on how a child’s thinking, learning and development relate to the structure and function of the brain and nervous system.
Our neuropsychology team includes neuropsychologists who completed specialized fellowships in neuropsychological assessment, as well as a psychologist with advanced training in evaluating conditions that affect learning and educational development.
Patient & family education materials
At Children’s Minnesota, we know how important reliable information about conditions and illnesses is. Search any condition to learn more.
Neuropsychology services
Our providers work with you, your care team and your child to develop an assessment plan focused on your child’s particular needs. Assessments may include instruments focused on assessing intelligence, adaptive skills, language skills, attention and executive functioning, fine and gross motor skills, memory and learning, academic achievement and emotional functioning.
Why choose the neuropsychology program at Children’s Minnesota?
Every child’s story is unique, and our team is focused on helping you and your child tell that story in a way to help others understand their individual strengths, gifts and needs. Our team has decades of experience, and each member specializes in working directly with the medical care teams here and with providers and stakeholders in the community to provide a comprehensive approach to care for each child.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ) about our neuropsychology program
What is pediatric neuropsychology?
Pediatric neuropsychology is a specialty area of psychology that focuses on how the structure, function and development of the brain relate to a child or adolescent’s learning, thinking, emotions and behavior.
Neuropsychological evaluations use a variety of age‑appropriate activities to understand a child’s cognitive strengths and areas where they may need support. This information helps guide diagnoses and recommendations for therapies, interventions and educational supports to help each child thrive.
Who should be seen in the neuropsychology clinic?
Our clinic works with children from about 18 months through age 21.
Children referred to neuropsychology typically have a medical or developmental concern that may affect learning, behavior or emotional development. Evaluations are designed to help families better understand how these concerns may be impacting their child and what supports may be helpful.
Is a referral needed?
Insurance plans often require a referral from a medical provider who knows your child. At this time, we are accepting referrals from specialty providers within Children’s Minnesota.
Are services and evaluations covered by insurance?
Neuropsychological evaluation services are typically covered by insurance. Our team will work with you before your appointment to review expected coverage and any potential costs.
How long do the visits and evaluations take?
In most cases, evaluations take place over a series of visits, which may include:
- An intake visit (about one hour)
Your provider will learn more about your child and family and review relevant medical, educational and assessment records. - One or two assessment visits
During these visits, your provider will work directly with your child. Each visit is tailored to your child’s age, needs and areas of concern, and the length may vary. - A feedback visit
Your provider will review the results of the evaluation, discuss any diagnoses that may apply, and share recommendations for next steps, such as therapies, interventions or educational supports.
How often does a child generally follow up with the team long-term?
Follow‑up care depends on each child’s individual needs. Many children return for re‑evaluation every two to three years to monitor development and ensure supports remain appropriate.
In some cases, a single evaluation is sufficient. In others, follow‑up may occur sooner or later depending on a child’s age, new concerns or changes in development.
