Jeff 

-Michelle, ACS Neuropsychologist

9-year-old Jeff was before the court on a CHINS Truant petition. Despite his young age, he had a lengthy psychiatric history. Jeff was already diagnosed with Bi-Polar Disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, but none of these fully accounted for his difficulties. Jeff had hardly gone to school from first through fourth grade despite efforts by the school to meet his needs. Over the past year, Jeff had become violent, exhibiting rage attacks in which he would “claw” at his mother’s arms, push his grandparents and younger brother, and throw household items at family members.

Jeff was referred to ACS for a CHINS evaluation, which was completed by an ACS social worker. The central recommendation was for neuropsychological testing to examine Jeff’s diagnoses and to unravel his academic problems. Thanks to the support of our generous private funders, ACS was able to refer this specialized testing case internally – to our neuropsychologist Dr. Michelle Hidler.

As Michelle began interviewing Jeff, he revealed some unusual interests: compulsive snow shoveling, an encyclopedic knowledge of animals, and a fascination with scientific inventions. He had problems with motor skills – he couldn’t tie his shoes. He had issues with sensory integration: for example, he would only eat bland, soft-textured food; his clothing had to be smooth; and he didn’t like to shower because of the feeling of the water hitting his skin. Attentional problems made the testing sessions a real challenge for Jeff. Michelle eventually found a solution, using giant exercise balls where she and Jeff could bounce at the table as they worked through the specialized testing battery over the course of 11 sessions – many more than the typical 3-5 sessions. The results of the tests and further communication with collaterals revealed that Jeff has Asperger’s Syndrome and sensory integration dysfunction, which often occur together.

Michelle’s report explained her findings and made specific educational and treatment recommendations, which the family took to the school. Jeff’s mom became an educated advocate on his behalf and the school responded and worked to implement the recommendations. With these in place, Jeff no longer has attendance problems and he is experiencing success at school for the first time.

The outcome of this case demonstrates what specialized testing can do: help move a boy's life in a positive direction so that he can begin to succeed! 

*All client names and some identifying details have been changed in order to protect confidentiality