Neuropsychological Evaluations in Portland, Maine
In-depth answers about thinking, learning and brain health, ages 5 to 21
Understanding how the brain shapes thinking and learning
A neuropsychological evaluation takes an in-depth look at thinking skills such as attention, memory, language, problem-solving and processing speed, and how they affect learning, behavior and daily life. It's especially helpful when the picture is complex or when a medical or developmental condition may be affecting how a child thinks and learns.
Neuropsychological evaluations at Beacon Light are conducted by Dr. Craig DiGiovanni, a pediatric neuropsychologist who completed a two-year postdoctoral fellowship in pediatric neuropsychology at Penn State Health.
When an evaluation can help
Families often reach out after a pediatrician, neurologist or school suggests an evaluation, or when they find themselves thinking:
What we evaluate
Concussion and brain injury
Changes in thinking, learning or behavior after a head injury.
Epilepsy and seizures
How seizures or their treatment affect attention, memory and learning.
Genetic and developmental conditions
Including premature birth, genetic syndromes and intellectual disability.
Other medical conditions
Such as cancer treatment, sickle cell disease or spina bifida that can affect thinking.
What the evaluation looks at
A neuropsychological evaluation looks across a wide range of thinking skills. Depending on your child, it can include:
What you'll walk away with
What the different names mean
You may hear several names for evaluations. They overlap a lot, and each one simply puts more weight on certain areas.
| Psychological | Psychoeducational | Neuropsychological | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Puts more weight on | Emotions, behavior and social-emotional functioning | Reading, writing, math and learning skills | Thinking skills: attention, memory, language, problem-solving |
| Common questions | Anxiety, OCD, depression, behavior | Dyslexia, dyscalculia, dysgraphia, school supports | ADHD, autism, medical conditions that affect thinking |
| Conducted by | Dr. DiGiovanni or Dr. Blair | Dr. DiGiovanni or Dr. Blair | Dr. DiGiovanni, pediatric neuropsychologist |
| Learn more | Learn more | You are here |
One evaluation, built around your question. At Beacon Light, every evaluation is a comprehensive evaluation at the same price, designed to answer your specific question. You don't need to know which type to ask for. On your free call, we'll listen to your concerns and recommend the right approach. Learn about our evaluations →
How the evaluation works
Free 15-minute call
Talk with Dr. DiGiovanni about your concerns and whether an evaluation makes sense.
Paperwork from home
Consent and background forms, completed online.
Intake interview · 1–1.5 hours
By Zoom, with parents, or with you if you're a young adult.
Testing · 3–5 hours
At our downtown Portland office, with breaks as needed.
Feedback · 1–2 hours
Usually in person. We go over results, any diagnoses and recommendations.
Your written report
Within a few days of feedback, ready to share with a school, college or doctor.
- Includes the intake, all testing, scoring and interpretation, feedback and a full written report
- $400 at intake and the rest at testing
- HSA and FSA funds welcome, and CareCredit financing is available
- Superbill provided for possible out-of-network reimbursement
Common questions about neuropsychological evaluations
What is a pediatric neuropsychologist?
A pediatric neuropsychologist is a licensed psychologist with specialized training in how brain development and brain-related conditions affect thinking, learning and behavior in children and teens. Dr. DiGiovanni completed a two-year postdoctoral fellowship in pediatric neuropsychology.
How is this different from a psychological evaluation?
A neuropsychological evaluation puts more weight on thinking skills like attention, memory and language, while a psychological evaluation focuses more on emotions and behavior. At Beacon Light, both are comprehensive and the same price, and we tailor each one to your questions.
Should I share my child's medical records?
Yes, if you have them. Records from doctors, hospitals or previous evaluations help us understand your child's history and focus the evaluation. With your permission, we can also share results with your child's medical team.
Can I share the results with my child's school?
Yes. Our report includes specific recommendations that can inform an IEP or 504 plan. How schools use outside evaluations depends on the district: some appreciate having one, while others prefer to do their own testing. Before scheduling a private evaluation, it helps to talk with your district's special education department to see whether they will take it into consideration.
What ages do you evaluate?
We evaluate children, teens and young adults ages 5 to 21.
Will insurance pay for it?
We don't bill insurance, but we provide a superbill for possible out-of-network reimbursement. HSA and FSA funds and CareCredit financing are also options. See our reimbursement guide.
Ready to get clear answers?
Book a free 15-minute call with Dr. DiGiovanni to talk through your concerns and whether an evaluation makes sense. There's no obligation to book.