NEUROPSYCHOLOGICAL EVALUATION/TESTING
A neuropsychological evaluation usually consists of an interview and testing, and also often includes interviews of family members, doctors, and others; a review of medical records and other background information; and behavioral observations. Standardized tests may assess some or all of the following areas:
- Level of Alertness
- Orientation
- Attention
- Learning & Memory
- Sensory & Motor Skills
- Language Skills
- Visuospatial Skills
- Executive Functioning
- General Intellectual Functioning
- Academic Skills
- Emotional/Personality Factors
- Behavior
- Symptom Validity
The tests are not invasive; that is, they do not involve attaching you to machines or using X-rays. Most of the tests involve questions and answers, or working with materials on a table. Some tests may use a computer. The time required depends on the problem being assessed. In general, several hours are needed to assess the many skills involved in processing information.
The results of a neuropsychological evaluation can be used to:
- identify weaknesses in specific areas
- identify strengths that can be used to compensate for weaknesses
- help differentiate among illnesses, which is important because appropriate treatment depends on accurate diagnosis
- establish a "baseline" before there is any problem, so that later changes can be measured very objectively
- assist with neuropsychological administrative matters, such as disability determination
- assist the trier of fact in litigated matters
NEUROPSYCHOLOGICAL TREATMENT
Neuropsychological treatment includes helping people to:
- improve brain functioning
- compensate for deficits
- adjust to life following neurologic injury or illness
FORENSIC SERVICES
- Independent Medical/Neuropsychological Examination
- Decision-making Capacity Determinations
- Record Review
- Disability Determination
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