Oakland Neuropsychology Blog

An older man and woman stand by a bright window, smiling as they look at a smartphone together. The man points at the phone while the woman holds it, both appearing happy and engaged—showcasing connection among Michigan families and older adults.

Older Adults Are Curious About Normal Aging: What Michigan Families Should Know

At Oakland Neuropsychological Center, we meet many older adults — and their adult children — who are noticing changes in memory, attention, or processing speed and aren’t sure what’s normal or when to seek help. Across Michigan and the U.S., older adults consistently Google the same questions about aging, memory, and cognitive health: 1. “Is … Read more

Two people sit at a table, looking at a laptop. One holds a mug, the other types on the keyboard. Books and headphones are on the table as they discuss transitioning to college in Michigan, studying together in a bright room.

Transitioning From High School to College in Michigan

How a Neuropsychological Evaluation Supports Students with Autism, ADHD, and Learning Disabilities We are frequently asked to help families during that crucial part of a teen or young adult’s life where they are preparing for the next step. For students with autism, ADHD, learning disabilities, or intellectual disabilities, this shift can feel confusing and overwhelming. … Read more

A young girl with light brown hair, wearing a plaid scarf and jacket, smiles while writing in a notebook at a desk in a classroom, embodying the excitement of brain education in a vibrant school setting.

Helping Kids Understand Their Brain

Did you know that your child can get feedback after the evaluation so that they have some understanding of their strengths and weaknesses? We feel that obtaining feedback is an important part of the evaluation process not only for parents, but also for children and adolescents. When children and teens are supported in understanding their … Read more

Anna Hage West, Ph.D., with straight, shoulder-length hair, smiles at the camera against a black wall with bold white abstract patterns. She wears a jacket over a high-neck top in this striking black-and-white photo.

Introducing Anna Hage West, Ph.D.

Oakland Neuropsychology Center is delighted to announce a new reading specialist who has joined our team of experts. Introducing Anna Hage West, Ph.D., who has over fifteen years of experience helping students with learning differences improve their reading, comprehension, math, writing, and executive functioning skills. She is a lifetime lover of the written word, and … Read more

A smiling woman in business attire relaxes at her desk after completing cognitive baseline testing, surrounded by plants and office supplies, with sunlight streaming through the window.

Cognitive Baseline Testing Is Helpful

Have you ever thought about obtaining a baseline of your thinking and cognitive skills? Many people are becoming increasingly aware of how immensely helpful this information about their health is and now is a good time to seriously consider it. Obtaining a cognitive baseline provides you with an objective point against which future cognitive changes … Read more

Four adults sit around a table, smiling and talking while holding books in a bright, modern room with large windows and green plants—sharing experiences with word-finding challenges and supporting each other’s language difficulties.

Understanding Word-Finding Challenges

Do you ever struggle to find the right words in conversation? It’s like the word is on the tip of your tongue but you can’t find it?  You’re not alone.  Self-reported word–finding difficulties are among the most frequent complaints in cognitively normal older adults. Although people of all ages will experience word finding problems at times, this … Read more

A woman comforts a frustrated teenager with Oppositional Defiant Disorder sitting on a couch, headphones around their neck. The teen looks away with an annoyed expression while the woman gently touches their shoulder.

Understanding Oppositional Defiant Disorder

It’s natural for children to test boundaries, push back, and express frustration. But when defiant behavior becomes a daily struggle—filled with frequent arguments, anger, and refusal to follow rules—it might signal something more serious. Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) is a real and recognized mental health condition that affects a child’s ability to regulate emotions and … Read more

A young girl with long hair holds a magnifying glass over one eye, making her eye appear larger. She is smiling with her mouth open and wears a white shirt with black polka dots, highlighting the importance of early detection of ADHD or autism.

Why Autism and ADHD Diagnoses Are Rising — and Why Early Detection Matters

It seems that in recent years, there has been an increase in diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). While this may seem alarming, the rise often reflects improvements in awareness, diagnostic criteria, and access to services. Here are some reasons why more people are being diagnosed: Early diagnosis of ASD and … Read more

Five women sit around a table in a modern office, turning information into action during their meeting. Laptops, notebooks, and a small plant are on the table as natural light fills the room and one woman gestures while speaking.

School Meetings: Turning Information Into Action

After a neuropsychological evaluation, many parents feel relief—finally, there’s a clearer understanding of why their child may be struggling. But one of the most important steps comes right after: meeting with school staff to discuss the results and how to use them to support your child. These school meetings are essential for translating information we … Read more

A woman helps a child struggling in school by explaining something from a book to a frustrated boy. They sit at a desk with books and a laptop in a bright room.

My child is struggling in school. What should I do?

If you are asking yourself this question, you are not alone! As parents, it’s our natural inclination to worry about our kids’ cognitive, social, and emotional development. For many children, learning difficulties are temporary and might improve after a few months. If these concerns persist, however, it is worth investigating your child’s learning patterns more … Read more