Marianjoy Rehabilitation Hospital offers behavioral testing for children

Marianjoy Rehabilitation Hospital now provides neuropsychological assessments and testing for children ages 5 to 18 who are exhibiting behavioral issues or academic difficulties.

Christine Valessares, a licensed clinical neuropsychologist, performs the neuropsychological testing which not only assesses the child's general intellect and achievement skills but also determines the child's level of ability in learning and memory, verbal and visual-spatial skills, motor coordination, emotional functioning and social skills.

"Children who are having difficulty in school with reading or math, experiencing attention problems, or exhibiting inappropriate behavior can often benefit from a neuropsychological assessment," explains Dr. Valessares. "The testing can accurately diagnose a child's underlying difficulties while identifying a program of intervention to improve function in school, as well as improve their family, community, and social relationships."

Using the results of the assessment, Dr. Valessares provides recommendations to the child's physician regarding management of neurological or neurobehavioral difficulties. She also helps the family in determining a clinical treatment plan which may include speech, occupational or physical therapy. Her previous experience as a school psychologist and classroom teacher enables Dr. Valessares to work directly with the schools to communicate with teachers and personnel on the child's behalf.

Dr. Valessares' practice includes working with children who have been diagnosed with Autism spectrum disorder, attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), learning disabilities, and brain injuries. In addition to neuropsychological assessments, Dr. Valessares offers individual counseling sessions for children and parents as well. Marianjoy also provides neuropsychological assessments and counseling for Spanish-speaking clients.

SOURCE Marianjoy Rehabilitation Hospital