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Neuropsychological Evaluations

What is a Neuropsychological Evaluation?

 

A neuropsychological evaluation is a comprehensive process that integrates information from a variety of sources to develop a "full picture" of a person. Its goal is to identify unique strengths and weaknesses, and gain insight into what might be interfering with an individual's ability to achieve their potential. These evaluations consistently yield recommendations that are highly individualized, clearly defined, and practical.

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When Is a Neuropsychological Evaluation Recommended?

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You or your loved one might benefit from a neuropsychological evaluation if there is:

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  • A suspicion of ADHD or other neurodevelopmental conditions.

  • A need to track changes during or after interventions.

  • A desire to understand why previous interventions have not been successful.

  • A need to evaluate the effects of medical conditions or treatments on cognitive function.

  • A need to understand how emotional difficulties (e.g., anxiety, depression, trauma) are affecting one's ability to learn and function.

Domains Assessed in a Neuropsychological Evaluation

 

A neuropsychological evaluation systematically assesses a broad range of cognitive and behavioral functions. The specific tests used are tailored to the individual's concerns, but generally cover the following key domains:

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  • Intellectual Functioning (IQ): Assesses general cognitive ability, intellectual potential, and various types of reasoning.

  • Attention and Concentration: Evaluates the ability to focus, maintain attention, selectively attend to information, and shift focus.

  • Learning and Memory: Examines how well new information is learned, stored, and recalled.

  • Language Skills: Assesses understanding of language and how you use language to express yourself.

  • Visuospatial and Perceptual Functions: How an individual perceives, interprets, and manipulates visual information and spatial relationships. 

  • Executive Functions: These are higher-level thinking skills crucial for daily life, including planning, organizing, problem-solving, making decisions, adapting to new situations, and managing impulses.

  • Processing Speed: Measures how quickly and efficiently one can process information and complete mental tasks.

  • Psychomotor Speed & Motor Skills: Assessment of fine motor coordination, dexterity, and the speed of motor responses.

  • Emotional and Behavioral Functioning:  Explores mood, anxiety levels, personality traits, and common behavioral patterns, often through questionnaires and clinical interview.

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The Evaluation Process

 

Neuropsychological evaluations follow a comprehensive process designed to provide a thorough understanding of an individual's cognitive and emotional profile. The first step is often a free 15-minute phone call to discuss needs. If more time is needed, one can proceed directly to an initial meeting.

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  • Intake Paperwork: You will complete a detailed questionnaire to help prepare for our first meeting.​

  • Initial Meeting: This initial meeting is conducted via telehealth and typically lasts 50 to 90 minutes. This is a crucial time to review the individual's social history, work, physical health, mental health, academic performance, family, and developmental history, and to collaboratively determine the assessment needs and next steps.​​

  • Record Review: Relevant records are requested to be shared via PDF files before the first appointment. These records are vital for a complete understanding and might include educational records, medical records, and prior evaluations.​

  • ​Collateral Information: With permission, individuals who know the client well might be contacted to gather additional information. These often include family members, mental health professionals, medical providers, or teachers.

  • ​Test Administration: The testing session generally requires 5 to 15 hours, typically broken down into multiple testing sessions. The exact duration depends on the specific assessment needs and the complexity of the questions being addressed. 

  • ​Feedback Session: The final appointment is a feedback session that takes place via telehealth, lasting between 50 to 90 minutes. It is an opportunity to discuss the test results and findings, provide recommendations, and answer questions.

  • Report: You will receive a comprehensive written report that incorporates all the relevant information. The report will include testing results and explanations of the findings, along with individualized recommendations based on concerns, resources, and the unique profile of interests, strengths, and weaknesses.​

How much do evaluations cost?

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For detailed information regarding the cost of neuropsychological evaluations and insurance policies, please visit my fees and payment page.

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