What is a Neuropsychologist?
Neuropsychologists are psychologists that look at how the brain affects how we think, act, and feel.
How Can a Neuropsychologist Help?
Children and teens who have surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, or immunotherapy for a brain tumor may have trouble with thinking skills during treatment and even years later. They might have a hard time paying attention, learning new things, remembering information, working quickly, and staying organized. These challenges can affect daily life, schoolwork, friendships, and mental health.
What will a Neuropsychologist do to Support Your Child in the STRONG Program?
A STRONG neuropsychologist has periodic visits with you and your child to understand your child's thinking, behavior, and feelings. Information collected during these visits will be used to help you understand and manage these challenges during active treatment and beyond.
The STRONG neuropsychologist will:
- Identify your child's current individual strengths and challenges.
- Recognize and explain how your child’s treatment might affect their thinking skills over time.
- Work closely with your child's other STRONG team providers and Johns Hopkins Neuro-oncology team to ensure that resources are in place to address your child's individual needs.
- Work closely with the STRONG school liaison to make sure your child receives necessary learning supports in school.
Cognitive testing can be helpful in understanding your child's specific needs. A STRONG neuropsychologist may:
- Administer targeted cognitive testing periodically.
- Recommend more in-depth testing of your child's thinking skills at key points after treatment.
How Long is Neuropsychology Involved in my Child's Care?
Maintaining brain health and function are important for all children, especially those treated for a brain tumor. Your child's STRONG neuropsychologist will offer checkups from the time of diagnosis through long-term survivorship to ensure they have the supports they need to thrive at home, school, and in the community.
