My life has been dedicated to understanding/assessing, treating and teaching about brain-related phenomenon. The greatest research contributions I made have been in the fields of dyslexia, reading and attention where I helped evolve the cognitive models that exist today.
My research (Harvard/MIT) has been recognized and rewarded over the years and although important, working directly with people to enhance their lives is far more important and enjoyable. There is nothing more gratifying than helping people feel and reach their greatness.
I have evaluated and am comfortable evaluating some of the most complex cases (e.g. nonverbal, lacking hand mobility, ASD/genetic disorders/complex brain injuries), to more simple cases (e.g. “Do I have ADHD or anxiety or both?”)
I can also help with child/adolescent or adult ASD questions and assessments given training in both pediatric and adult neuropsychology.
To me no one is disabled — everyone is able. Everyone is beautiful, brilliant, and has a voice to be heard and a heart that can be filled. Everyone has an ability to thrive and optimize their potential and it is my job to help get them there. I enjoy the challenges of cases and will work/stay with you until we figure out what is going on and you get the help you need; we will walk this journey together. I treat each person with the same care and respect that I would for a family member.
​Experience as a neuroscientist (fMRI, MEG and cognitive/behavioral testing) and knowledge of how we come/fail to learn and process all kind of stimuli and information, allows me to evaluate people very comprehensively and to offer the most detailed reports possible. I often write reading/learning remediation programs unique for individuals based upon their unique way of thinking and learning, and am aware as to what should work/not work based upon my experience. Sharing these with literacy and special education teachers is also enjoyable due to the higher numbers of people we can reach.
Should you or your loved one (child/parent/etc) be coming in for an assessment/services, or if you would like me to speak to your group, I will share that I have a disarming friendly demeanor, am down to Earth, explain complex concepts in simple ways (things are always more simple than they may first appear), and laughter/humor are part of the routine when interacting with others. Children usually want to return which is good! 🙂
I have offices in Sudbury and Concord MA, and have access to offices all over the world through an office booking agency so can come very close to you as well if needed.
I am currently working/licensed in MA and CT.
I’m happy to hear your particular case/needs and see what we can learn and where we can go.
My approach blends advanced testing with personalized care, ensuring every client receives solutions that truly address their unique challenges.
I take time to learn each client’s personal history and symptoms, ensuring assessments address their most pressing cognitive concerns.
Based on testing outcomes, I craft actionable steps that support improvement in thinking, memory, focus, and emotional well-being.
I offer continuous monitoring and adjustments, helping clients maintain progress and achieve lasting brain health and daily independence.
I know that reaching out for neuropsychological care can be overwhelming. My goal is to give you honest, clear answers so you feel comfortable, supported, and ready to move forward with your brain health journey.
Early testing helps me find modest cognitive abnormalities before they become significant ones. Acting early implies that therapy can start sooner, which speeds up recovery, protects abilities, and lessens the long-term effects on job, relationships, and daily life.
Yes, problems like forgetting things, not being able to focus, and mood swings can last a long time after the injury. My evaluations show these lasting impacts and give useful advice on how to get better, get back on track, and avoid other problems.
Not getting treatment for ADHD can make it hard to work, have relationships, and feel good about yourself. Testing gives me answers that enable me to come up with ways to improve attention, organization, and productivity, which makes clients feel more confident and in charge.
Each client I meet has their own story, and the changes we achieve together are real. Their feedback reflects the value of thorough assessments and tailored strategies that lead to meaningful, lasting improvements in daily life.
“Following a severe head injury, I struggled with daily tasks and memory loss. Dr. Laurie Cestnick’s detailed evaluation uncovered areas I didn’t even realize were affected, and her strategies have helped me regain independence.”
I provide advanced neuropsychological assessments to identify and address brain-related concerns. With over 20 years of expertise, I help you understand your cognitive health and create strategies to improve daily function and well-being.