Frequently Asked Questions
What Is A Neuropsychological Evaluation?
Neuropsychological evaluations assess an individual's cognitive abilities and help identify specific diagnoses. They can determine an individual's current level of functioning, evaluate strengths and weaknesses, and detect changes over time.
Evaluation can also be useful for adults who are seeking understanding of longstanding cognitive challenges, or as a way to confirm or rule out disorders such as ADHD.
Other Common Questions
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A neuropsychological evaluation is often recommended by a doctor to gather more information on a patient's strengths and weaknesses and to aid in diagnosis and treatment.
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Our office receives a referral from your doctor. We verify insurance, obtain necessary information, and schedule the appointment.
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• Try to get a good night of rest.
• Eat prior to your appointment.
• Take your medications as prescribed.
• Bring your medication list and any medications you may need during the day.
• Bring a beverage or water and a lunch (which you can eat in or outside the office).
• Bring a jacket or sweater (variable temperature in office).
• Make sure you complete your intake paperwork prior to your appointment.
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During the evaluation, the patient will have an interview with the neuropsychologist. With your consent, a family member, partner, or friend is welcome to participate in the clinical interview and the feedback session, though they may not be present during the testing process. The testing itself includes includes administration of standardized tests designed to assess intellectual abilities, attention, memory, language, visual processing, executive functioning, motor skills, and/or academic strengths and weaknesses. Tests will be administered by a psychometrist or psychologist. Evaluations typically last several hours, with short breaks and a lunch break provided, as necessary.
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Neuropsychological evaluations provide objective assessments of a person's cognitive strengths and weaknesses and are crucial in determining appropriate support and treatment. They establish a baseline, clarify diagnoses, differentiate between similar illnesses, identify compensatory strategies, and assist in treatment planning. More specific questions related to learning/school challenges, vocational challenges, and medical-legal issues can also be addressed.
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The neuropsychological evaluation process concludes with the calculation of test scores and preparation of a report, which integrates background information, history, and test performance. The report is usually completed within one to two weeks, with follow up appointments provided to review and discuss results and recommendations. The report is provided to the referring physician and other parties (as desired and with written permission). The report is kept in secure archives for future reference.
Resources
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Specific Learning Disorder: Dyslexia, Dysgraphia, Dyscalculia
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Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
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Attention-Deficit/ Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
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Global Developmental Delay (GDD)
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Intellectual Disability (ID)