Neuropsychology

What is neuropsychology?

Neuropsychology is a specialty area of psychology that focuses on brain functioning. This is measured through the administration of various standardized measures designed to assess brain functions. Specific areas evaluated typically include attention, concentration, language skills, visual processing, learning and memory, as well as problem solving. The results of these measures assist with clarification of strengths and weaknesses and assist with providing treatment recommendations.

Why am I being referred?

Neuropsychological evaluation is often requested by your doctor to see how your brain is working and to assist with diagnosis. Difficulties in attention, concentration, language, learning and memory, as well as personality changes are common symptoms of brain dysfunction that often times indicate the need for evaluation. Common patient populations include those with concussion, head injury, stroke, dementia (i.e., Alzheimer’s), brain tumor, psychiatric illness, and others.

Is this an IQ test?

The primary purpose of most evaluations is not to strictly measure IQ, but rather to determine how the brain is working. While portions of the evaluation do include parts of IQ tests, this is not the primary focus of the testing. Further, the results of the testing are corrected for age and education level and not only compared to other people’s performances but the results of each test are also compared to each other. This allows for the determination of strengths and weaknesses, while also controlling for the impact of normal aging.

What should I expect on the day of my evaluation?

Depending on the particulars of the case, most evaluations can take anywhere from 4 to 6 hours. The session typically starts with a review of your medical history and review of your symptoms. It is often helpful to have a friend or family member present during this portion to provide additional information. The interview portion typically takes about 1 hour. Following that, the testing session begins, during which time you are one on one with the doctor and/or his tester. A break is taken for lunch and the testing session continues in the afternoon. Following the evaluation, the findings are reviewed with the patient and family, and a report is generated for the referring doctor.

Commonly Asked Questions.

What do I need to bring?

• Glasses and hearing aids if typically worn.
• Lunch, if you do not drive or have a ride to take you to lunch.
• Any pertinent medical records.

Should I take my medications?

• Yes, take your medications as usual.