Neuropsychological Evaluations

 

What is a neuropsychological evaluation?

Neuropsychological testing is a way to examine brain function by measuring cognitive abilities such as memory, attention, visuospatial functioning, language abilities, and problem-solving. Evaluations provide an objective measure of an individual’s strengths and weaknesses. In addition to cognition, sensory-motor skills, emotional status, academic abilities, and functional abilities may also be assessed.

  • A typical evaluation involves a record review, an interview with the client and family members, and administration of psychological and neuropsychological tests. The evaluation includes paper-pencil, computer, and interactive measures.

  • Evaluations make take from as few as 2-3 hours, or as many as 6-8 hours, depending on the reason for referral. Evaluations are flexible and tailored to answer specific questions.

  • Neuropsychological testing has a major role in diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation, and educational and vocational planning. It is valuable for pre- and post-treatment assessment. 

 
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Testing may be beneficial for adolescents and adults with the following conditions or needs:

  • Acquired brain injury:

    • Traumatic brain injury

    • Stroke

    • Hypoxia/anoxia

    • Brain tumor

    • Infection

    • Other

  • Degenerative diseases:

    • Alzheimer’s disease

    • Other dementia

    • Parkinson’s disease

    • Multiple sclerosis

  • Medical conditions affecting brain function:

    • Cardiovascular conditions

    • Renal disease

    • Liver disease

    • Respiratory disorders

    • Infectious diseases

  • Memory, attention, visuospatial, language, problem-solving difficulties that impair daily functioning.

  • Upcoming or recent surgery.

The neuropsychological evaluation and report will be used to:

  • Determine the presence, nature, and severity of cognitive impairments related to injury or illness affecting brain functioning.

  • Provide information on cognitive capacity for work, school, and independent living.

  • Provide baseline information that may be useful in measuring the effects of medical, surgical, or rehabilitative treatments.

  •  Help determine what condition is affecting your functioning.

  •  Identify areas of strength that can be utilized in developing therapies or treatment approaches to help you.

  •  Identify psychological factors such as depression and anxiety.

Report and feedback services:

  • Findings of the assessment will be summarized in a comprehensive evaluation report that will be provided to the referring physician, and other physicians and healthcare providers that you designate.

  •  A feedback session will be scheduled to review the results of the evaluation and any recommendations.

Preparing for your evaluation:

  • The evaluation may take up to eight hours but is typically around 3.5-5 hours. A lunch break may be provided for evaluations exceeding 5 hours. 

  • If you will need assistance, please have someone accompany you.

  • Avoid scheduling other appointments on the day of your evaluation.

  • Obtain any relevant medical records to bring with you.

  • Bring your current medications or a detailed list of your current prescriptions.

  • Please bring your eyeglasses and/or hearing aids with you.

If you would like to request an appointment for services, please call 925-322-3100, or click the link below: