What is Clinical Neuropsychology?
Neuropsychology assesses behavioral
impairment due to disease processes or
problems within the brain. Neuropsychology
quantifies these brain-change caused
behaviors that affect an individuals safety,
level of independence, judgment, driving
skills, use of power equipment or tools, and
kitchen appliances. A neuropsychological
report will be able to describe school or
educational needs and possible
rehabilitation needs such as Physical,
Speech, or Occupational Therapy. We also
work with physicians and other health
professionals on an in or outpatient basis.
What is a Neuropsychological Evaluation?
A comprehensive assessment of one’s unique cognitive and behavioral functions includes a careful review of one’s personal bio-psychosocial history and utilizes a set of standardized and empirical test batteries and procedures. Various domains of cognitive function are systematically measured and interpreted, which may include:
- Intelligence
- Sensory Perception
- Information & Processing Speed
- Attention and Concentration
- Visual-Spatial Organization
- Memory and Learning
- Language Skills
- Academic and Achievement Skills
- Executive Functioning
- Psychological Behavior and Personality
- Response Validity and Reliability
- Impairment Indexes
- Diagnosis and Treatment Recommendations
What can an evaluation do for me?
Neuropsychological Evaluations are
recommended for suspected brain-based
cognitive or behavioral changes in function.
The assessment diagnoses or rules out many
conditions, and can help describe the severity
of a person’s cognitive deficits, along with
possible recommendations for treatment.
Such conditions can include:
- Traumatic brain injury
- Strokes
- Developmental learning disabilities
- Attention deficit disorders
- Psychiatric or neuropsychiatric disorders
- Seizure disorders
- Medical illness or treatments
- Effects of toxic chemicals or chronic substance abuse
- Dementing conditions (e.g., Alzheimer’s Disease)
A comprehensive exploration of one’s functions and behaviors can be critical in determining what factors may have produced changes in thinking and behavior, as well as a better understanding of disease expression, progress, and individual recovery.