The Role of the Independent Neuropsychologist in Special Education

Abstract

Neuropsychologists are playing an increasing role in special education. We explain steps that neuropsychologists can take to ethically and effectively approach the "quasi-forensic" role of independent evaluator. Because neuropsychologists may provide reports for treatment, school programming, and legal disputes, it is important that they are familiar with the school programming process and the unique litigation procedures available for children with disabilities in special education. We provide guidelines including determining referral questions, obtaining outside information, choosing assessments, considering the legal constructs of questions, reviewing discrepant results from other evaluations and Individual Education Plans and communicating ideas.

Principles and Practice of a Neuropsychological Approach to Conducting Independent Educational Evaluations

“…The infusion of neuropsychological concepts into the school setting and especially the training of school psychologists has evolved for over a decade (Hale and Fiorello 2004). Hurewitz and Kerr (2011) provide an excellent overview of the neuropsychologist's role in special education. These include "determining referral questions, obtaining outside information, choosing assessments, considering the legal constructs of questions, reviewing discrepant results from other evaluations and Individual Education Plans and communicating ideas" (p. 1058).…”