
BIOGRAPHY
Helping People Feel Their Greatness
Dr. Laurie Cestnick
Neuropsychologist, Psychologist, Neuroscientist
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.
History of dyslexia research - Wikiwand
History of dyslexia research - Wikipedia
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.

PDF - 4x6 Bio Card with more information that can be read, downloaded and/or shared