Neuropsychological Testing

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 & Performance 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:

• maximize memory/brain wellness
• improve cognitive/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