My Child Was Diagnosed by a Neuropsychologist — What to Do Next
Step-by-step Guidance for Parents after a Neuropsychological Evaluation
My Child Was Diagnosed by a Neuropsychologist—Now What?
Receiving a neuropsychological evaluation for your child can feel like a turning point. Whether you’re feeling relief that you finally have answers, overwhelmed by all the information, or unsure about what to do next, you’re not alone. A neuropsychological or psychological evaluation report can open doors to new understanding and support — but only if you know how to use it. This post walks you through three key areas: understanding the report, advocating with your child’s school, and supporting your child at home.
Understanding and Reviewing the Report
Start by reading the report in manageable pieces. Neuropsychological evaluations are full of technical terms, scores, and lengthy recommendations. Focus first on:
The diagnoses or descriptions of your child’s learning, attention, or social-emotional needs.
The test results that explain your child’s cognitive strengths and challenges.
The recommendations section — which is often the most practical part.
Ask for clarification. If you’re unsure what something means, reach out to the neuropsychologist who wrote the report. Most evaluators are happy to schedule a brief call to explain the findings in plain language.
Prioritize the recommendations. Some recommendations may be essential and immediate (like school accommodations), while others may be longer-term goals (like certain therapies). Make a simple list of what to tackle first.
Advocating With the School
Your child’s neuropsychological report is a powerful tool when it comes to educational support.
Share the report with the school. Provide the school with the portions relevant to educational planning and consider giving permission for the evaluator to communicate directly with school staff.
Understand your options for support plans. The report can be used to request a school-based evaluation or update an existing Individualized Education Program (IEP) or Section 504 Plan. These plans outline accommodations and services your child may be entitled to in school.
Collaborate with educators. Establish a positive, solution-focused relationship with your child’s teachers, case manager, and school psychologist. Clear communication — in writing and in meetings — helps ensure your child’s needs are met.
Supporting Your Child at Home
A neuropsychological report doesn’t just guide school-based support — it can also help you support your child at home.
Focus on strengths, not just challenges. Balance skill-building with activities that bring your child joy and success. This boosts resilience and self-esteem.
Put key recommendations into daily routines at home. This might mean creating a quiet homework space, using timers or checklists, or adjusting routines to reduce stress.
Coordinate home and school strategies. If your child’s teachers are using certain approaches (like visual schedules or behavior supports), consider mirroring them at home for consistency.
Take Care of Yourself. Parenting a child with learning, attention, or social-emotional differences can be demanding. Recognizing your own stress is essential. Build your support network — whether through a trusted friend, a parent support group, or therapy. Taking care of yourself puts you in a stronger position to help your child.
How I Can Support You
I work with parents who are navigating the exact challenges you’re facing right now. As a licensed clinical and school psychologist, I can help you:
Understand and prioritize your child’s neuropsychological report so it feels clear and manageable.
Prepare for school meetings and advocate effectively to secure the accommodations your child needs.
Develop practical, personalized home strategies to support your child’s learning, behavior, and emotional well-being.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure about what to do next, you don’t have to figure it out alone. Together, we can help you feel confident and capable of handling whatever your parenting journey brings next.
Contact me to learn more about how I can help you and your child.
Sarah Gebhardt, Ph.D., NCSP
Hi! I’m a licensed clinical psychologist and nationally certified school psychologist with over 15 years of experience in schools and private practice. I help overwhelmed parents and educators feel more confident, supported, and equipped to navigate and find peace in caregiving.