Did you know that approximately 1 in 5 children learn and process information differently due to neurodevelopmental differences such as ADHD, learning disabilities, autism, or executive functioning challenges? Too often, bright and capable students struggle not because they lack ability, but because they have never been given a clear understanding of how their brain works. When children and young adults understand their learning and psychosocial profile, they gain the confidence, self-awareness, and agency to advocate for themselves and reach their full potential.

 

At CARE-LA, we specialize in comprehensive neuropsychological evaluations for children, adolescents, and young adults. Our evaluations are designed not only to identify areas of difficulty, but also to uncover strengths, support emotional well-being, and provide a clear roadmap for success at school and in life.

 

What is neuropsychological testing?

 

Neuropsychological testing is a specialized assessment process that examines how brain functioning impacts learning, attention, behavior, emotional functioning, and problem-solving. Through a series of carefully selected, research-based measures, we develop a detailed understanding of how an individual thinks, learns, remembers, and manages emotions.

 

This process results in a comprehensive profile of cognitive, academic, behavioral, and social-emotional functioning, allowing for highly personalized recommendations and targeted interventions.

 

What can a neuropsychological evaluation help with?

 

A CARE-LA neuropsychological evaluation can help:

 

• Clarify diagnoses such as ADHD, learning differences, autism spectrum disorder, anxiety, or executive functioning difficulties

• Identify cognitive and academic strengths that can be leveraged for success

• Explain why a student may be struggling despite strong effort

• Provide recommendations for IEPs, 504 Plans, and school accommodations

• Guide decisions about therapies such as educational therapy, psychotherapy, occupational therapy, or speech therapy

• Support emotional development and resilience

• Help students develop self-understanding and self-advocacy skills

 

What areas are assessed?

 

Our comprehensive evaluations may include assessment of:

 

• Intellectual abilities

• Academic skills (reading, writing, and mathematics)

• Attention and executive functioning

• Learning and memory

• Processing speed

• Language skills

• Visual-spatial and motor abilities

• Emotional functioning, personality, and coping skills

 

 At CARE-LA, we believe an evaluation should do more than provide a diagnosis. It should provide answers, direction, and hope. Our reports provide clear, practical recommendations that help families, schools, and therapists work together to support each child’s growth. It’s more than a diagnosis — it is a roadmap for success.

 

Most importantly, our evaluations help children and young adults understand that their challenges do not define them. When students understand their learning differences, they often experience increased confidence, reduced frustration, and improved motivation. Knowledge becomes empowerment.

 

Understanding how you learn is the first step toward learning how to succeed!

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​Dr. Gaye Pettibone performs all psychological testing and educational consultations at CARE-LA.

 

Gaye Pettibone, PsyD, is both a Board-Certified Educational Therapist and postdoctoral registered psychologist who has worked with children, ages 3 to 18 years. Dr. Gaye Pettibone completed her doctorate in clinical psychology at the Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Her focus was in

neuropsychological and educational testing. She also holds a post-graduate certification in educational therapy from the University of California, Riverside, and a Masters in Special Education. She studied at UCLA and received her undergraduate degree in child development.

 

With over 20 years of teaching experience, she has made learning possible for hundreds of

neurodiverse children in the Los Angeles area. Gaye is a firm believer in empowering children to learn about themselves as learners. Because of her extensive experience in education, she is able to address the social, emotional and academic aspects that impact student learning. Her teaching career has included regular and special education instruction in elementary &middle school levels. Gaye is certified in the Orton Gillingham and Wilson Reading Programs.

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Please CLICK HERE to learn more and schedule a consultation.

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