NEUROPSYCH EVALUATION

A comprehensive neuropsychological assessment typically involves evaluation of the following areas:

Intellectual abilities (e.g., IQ)
Attention/concentration
Learning and memory
Language functions
Visual-spatial skills
Executive functioning (e.g., planning, organization)
Academic achievement
Vocational skills and interests
Personality/emotional functioning

In completing a neuropsychological assessment, an in-depth clinical interview is conducted, a comprehensive history is taken, and all available medical, psychiatric, vocational, and educational records are reviewed. Findings are summarized in a detailed report, and face-to-face feedback is provided. Consultation with referral sources is provided as part of the overall evaluation. A written report is provided to the patient and referral source. The length of the evaluation depends on the referral question.

Who is qualified to conduct a neuropsychological assessment?

A neuropsychological evaluation can be performed by a licensed psychologist with formal predoctoral and post-doctoral training focusing on brain-behavior relationships and neuropsychological assessment.

Are all neuropsychological assessments the same?

No. Although there are some central components involved in most evaluations, each neuropsychological evaluation is tailored to the needs of the individual client and the specific referral question in order to yield the most comprehensive information.

How are the assessment results used?

Neuropsychological Evaluation results are used for the following:

To confirm or clarify diagnosis or disability
To document changes in functioning
To develop a profile of strengths and weaknesses to guide treatment planning (e.g., rehabilitation, vocational, educational or other services)
To provide appropriate compensatory strategies
To make recommendations regarding the appropriate level of care and living arrangements for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia
To refer to other specialists such as cognitive rehabilitation professionals, neurologists, psychiatrists, psychotherapists, or vocational counselors

Neuropsychological Evaluation

What is a neuropsychological evaluation?

A comprehensive neuropsychological assessment typically involves evaluation of the following areas:

Who is qualified to conduct a neuropsychological assessment?

Are all neuropsychological assessments the same?

How are the assessment results used?