WPFP5: Dr. Reva Tankle on Advocacy, Neuropsych Evaluations, and Opening Up
In this episode
In this episode, I speak with Dr. Reva Tankle, whose impressive career path was serendipitously shaped by her own parenting experience. We talk about how her son’s struggles led her to become a special education advocate and later a pediatric neuropsychologist. Her unique mix of skills makes her a valuable resource for parents who are trying to understand how their child’s mind works and how to navigate the IEP (special education) process. As Reva offers insights into the benefits of neuropsych evaluations as well as working with an advocate, she weaves in some of the most important lessons she learned on her own journey - and offers hope for others.
About Dr. Reva Tankle
Dr. Reva Tankle is a pediatric neuropsychologist at NESCA (Neuropsychology & Education Services for Children & Adolescents) in Massachusetts. Combining her experience and training in both pediatric neuropsychology and educational advocacy, she has particular expertise in working with families who are navigating the IEP process. Having participated in numerous team meetings over the years, Dr. Tankle is especially knowledgeable about the many ways that schools can support and accommodate students with special learning needs, information that she clearly communicates in her evaluation reports and in team meetings, if needed. She also has a great deal of experience in articulating the reasons that a student may need a program outside of the public school.
Dr. Tankle evaluates students with ADHD, learning disabilities, high functioning autism spectrum disorders, and neurological conditions, as well as children with complex profiles that are not easily captured by a single diagnostic category.
What You’ll Learn
Why Reva stopped doing research on traumatic brain injury.
How an education advocate can help parents collaborate more effectively with schools.
How Reva pivoted to become a pediatric neuropsychologist.
The dynamic process of conducting a neuropsychological evaluation and what it can reveal.
How to live with the uncertainty, fears, and concerns that we face.
Her best suggestion for creating the personal connections that will carry you.
Resources Mentioned
NESCA (Neuropsychology & Education Services for Children & Adolescents) is a pediatric neuropsychology practice and integrative treatment center with offices in Massachusetts and New Hampshire. This is where Dr. Tankle works. https://nesca-newton.com/
The Federation for Children with Special Needs offers information, support, and assistance to families and professionals who support children with disabilities. This is where Dr. Tankle trained to become an education advocate. https://fcsn.org/