WINSi
Western Institute for Neurodevelopmental Studies and Interventions

Evaluations and Services

Evaluations

Neuropsychological Evaluations

Dr. Voeller and Dr. Aloia work as a team to provide comprehensive neuropsychological and neurological evaluations of children, adolescents, and adults with a variety of brain-based learning or behavior difficulties. Commonly suspected disorders include: language disorders, reading disorders, nonverbal learning disorders (including difficulty with math), pervasive developmental disorders (such as Autism and Asperger’s Disorder), attention deficit disorders, anxiety disorders, and mood disorders.

The neuropsychological evaluation typically involves a comprehensive neurodevelopmental interview, question and answer tests, computer tests, and behavioral rating forms which are completed by parents and teachers. The goal of each neuropsychological evaluation is to identify individual strengths and weaknesses by testing a wide variety of areas including: general cognitive ability, academic achievement, language ability, visual-spatial skills, motor functions, memory, attention, and problem-solving. Social-emotional needs are evaluated if necessary.

In addition to participating in the neuropsychological evaluation, Dr. Voeller typically completes a medical history and administers a comprehensive neurological exam.  A neurological exam is much like an ordinary physical yet it includes an assessment of a patient’s sensory and motor abilities and how these capabilities integrate.

After the evaluation, the patient and/or his or her family are provided both verbal and written feedback addressing specific concerns.  Included with this feedback are recommendations specifically designed to address educational, behavioral, and emotional concerns.  Dr. Voeller has the authority to prescribe medication if needed.

Integrated Visual and Auditory Test (IVA)

At WINSi, we are equipped to perform the The Integrated Visual and Auditory Test (IVA). The IVA is an auditory and visual continuous performance test designed to measure impulsivity, inattention or low arousal, and poor vigilance. The results of an IVA aid clinicians in the diagnosis of Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder.

Special Services at WINSi

The following services are provided as a part of the Intensive Cognitive Rehabilitation Program:

Occupational Therapy

Occupational Therapy (OT) is designed to help children and adults with disabilities to develop skills that are needed to be self-sufficient in daily school, work, and living situations. Individual treatment goals vary, from a child learning to wash his hands to an adolescent learning word-processing skills. Some common examples of OT treatment goals include emotion regulation, improved self-care (such as dressing), reduced sensitivity to sensory stimuli, and improved fine motor coordination. Children often work on improving handwriting skills and learning to touch type.

Recreational Therapy

Children in our Intensive Program work hard and it is important for them to have breaks during the day in which they can go outside or participate in other recreational activities. Recreational Therapy is also a time for children to acquire or practice social skills and work on improving self-esteem. Social skills consist of our everyday behaviors that allow us to effectively communicate with other people. For some children, these daily interactions are difficult and frustrating experiences, and improved social skills may be part of an individual treatment plan.