Does neuropsychological assessment necessarily include an IQ/WISC component?
Generally, yes:
http://www.massgeneral.org/psychiatry/services/leap_first.aspxCan anyone share an opinion as to whether the program at MGH would do a good job evaluating giftedness? We start from the perspective that the professionals at MGH are at the top of their field. Is that enough?
I've also had good impressions of the MGH program, having read a few of their evals, as well as spoken to some of their neuropsych and neurology associates.
Some of their people could be considered at the top of their field, but as in almost every hospital program, much of the direct testing will be done by psych interns, who usually have completed their doctorates, but need a year or so of supervised field experience prior to licensure. Supervisors do review the testing, and provide guidance on interpretation. It is, of course, competitive to be placed at places like MGH or BCH as an intern, so these are usually pretty sharp doctoral-level psychologists, if young.
Am I misunderstanding how all of this testing works and asking the wrong questions?
I think you're doing a good job. Keep asking questions, and make sure you view your intake interview with the team wherever you choose to go as an interview not only to provide them with information for the eval, but also as an interview to probe for their appropriateness for evaluating your child. Don't be afraid to ask for a different evaluator, if you or your DD feel uncomfortable with the one assigned.
