Neuropsychological Evaluation
A neuropsychological evaluation is a comprehensive assessment of cognitive and behavioral functions using a set of standardized tests and procedures. The evaluation involves an interview and the administration of tests. The tests are typically pencil and paper type tests. Some tasks might be self-reports meaning the patient completes them with the assistance of a technician.
BENEFITS
- Detailed analysis of neuro-cognitive strengths and weaknesses
- Objective diagnostic and prognostic information
- Recommendations for treatment approaches
EVALUATION
A Neuropsychological Evaluation involves standardized and objective testing which produces a comprehensive profile of an individual’s cognitive functioning. The evaluation is conducted by a Neuropsychologist, who is a Doctoral-level licensed psychologist with an expertise in understanding brain-behavior relationships, brain structures and systems and the common neurobehavioral syndromes associated with various brain disorders. In addition to testing, the comprehensive Neuropsychological Evaluation typically consists of a clinical interview of the client and relevant family/caregivers as well as a full review of medical records. The Neuropsychologist uses the results of the assessments to answer important questions about the relationship between the brain injury/illness and current cognitive and behavioral problems, assist in development of a rehabilitation treatment plan and to measure progress. The evaluation typically takes 4 to 6 hours, but could take longer depending on the individual’s needs.
Information from the Neuropsychological Evaluation acts as an initial guide to treatment strategy as it provides an analysis of the individual’s current cognitive strengths and weaknesses. Individuals who experience or who have experienced any of the following would be appropriate candidates for an evaluation:
- Moderate or severe traumatic brain injury (TBI)
- Mild TBI or concussion
- CVA or TIA
- Persistent mental confusion or cognitive decline secondary to medical illness or suspected illness
- Cerebral Anoxia or Hypoxia (lack of oxygen to the brain)
- Disorders of attention/learning/behavior and emotional control (ADD or ADHD)
