Neuropsychological Evaluation
What is a neuropsychological evaluation?
A neuropsychological evaluation involves testing that is sensitive to problems in brain functioning. Unlike CT or MRI scans, which show what the structure of the brain looks like, neuropsychological testing examines how well the brain is working when it performs certain functions (for example, remembering). The types of tests that you will take depend upon the questions you and your doctor have. The tests may assess the following areas: attention and memory, reasoning and problem-solving, visual-spatial functions, language functions, sensory, perceptual functions, motor functions, and emotional functioning.
Who would need a need a neuropsychological evaluation?
People are referred for neuropsychological evaluations for a variety of reasons. Most include cognitive issues related to a mild traumatic brain injury (concussion), major traumatic brain injury, neurodegenerative conditions, dementia, and cognitive disorders. The evaluation may be of help in
Finding possible problems with your brain functioning
Forming a diagnosis
Defining your thinking skill strengths and weaknesses
Guiding treatment for your personal, educational or vocational needs
Making relevant recommendations to your healthcare provider(s)
Documenting possible changes in your functioning over time
Click here for more information about traumatic brain injuries »
What is a neuropsychologist?
A neuropsychologist is a licensed psychologist specializing in the area of brain-behavior relationships. Although a neuropsychologist has a doctoral degree in psychology, they do not just focus on emotional or psychological problems. The neuropsychologist has additional training in the specialty field of clinical neuropsychology. This means a neuropsychologist is educated in brain anatomy, brain function, and brain injury or disease. The neuropsychologist also has specialized training in administering and interpreting the specific kinds of tests included in your neuropsychological evaluation. As a part of the required education, a neuropsychologist also has years of practical experience working with people who have had problems involving the brain.
What can I expect if I am referred for a neuropsychological evaluation?
An evaluation of this sort typically happens in a few steps. We would want to complete a psychological evaluation and some cognitive screeners. These two services are typically performed on the same day and encompass what is called a neurobehavioral status exam. From there, we will determine the need for a full neuropsychological evaluation based on the results of the neurobehavioral status exam. A full neuropsychological evaluation typically involves a full day of testing with multiple breaks included. This can be broken up into 2 days for those who are unable to tolerate a full day. Some of the testing is done paper-and-pencil style, while others are on the computer. After testing is complete, the neuropsychologist will then interpret the results and generate a report detailing your specific neuropsychological profile as well as recommendations for treatment, if appropriate.
