Frequently Asked Questions
- Why was I referred for a neuropsychological examination?
- The goal of a neuropsychological assessment is to determine if deficits or changes appear in your
attention, memory, language, problem solving, or other cognitive functions. This evaluation may point
to changes in brain function and suggest possible treatments and/or rehabilitation.
- What is a neuropsychologist?
- A clinical neuropsychologist is a professional within the field of psychology with special expertise in the
applied science of brain-behavior relationships. Clinical neuropsychologists use this knowledge in the
assessment, diagnosis, treatment and/or rehabilitation of patients across the lifespan with neurological,
medical, neurodevelopmental, and psychiatric conditions, as well as other cognitive and learning
disorders. The neuropsychologist works to evaluate a patient’s neurocognitive, behavioral, and
emotional strengths and weaknesses and their relationship to normal and abnormal central nervous
system function. The neuropsychologist then uses this information to identify and diagnose
neurobehavioral disorders and plan intervention strategies.
- What can I expect during the evaluation?
- Our examination time will start with an extensive interview where you will be asked questions about
your background and current medical symptoms. The assessment itself will consist of game-like tasks
and standardized tests related to your knowledge of certain topics, reading, drawing figures and shapes,
listening to audio tasks, reviewing printed material, and manipulating objects.
- How long will my assessment take?
- Assessments may take several hours or more of face-to-face time and several additional hours for
scoring, interpretation, report preparation, and a feedback session. Consultation with other medical
professionals such as neurologists, neurosurgeons, pediatricians, and psychiatrists is common. Most
appointments are scheduled in 2-3 hour blocks in order to mitigate the effects of fatigue during the
evaluation. When the examination itself is complete, we will schedule a feedback session with you and
your loved ones to discuss the results of the evaluation.
- Who will you give results to?
- Information obtained during assessments is confidential and can ordinarily be released only with your
written authorization. There are some special circumstances that can limit confidentiality, including: 1. A
statement of intent to harm self or others; 2. Statements indicating harm or abuse of children or
vulnerable adults; and 3. Issuance of a subpoena from a court of law.
- Is a neuropsychological examination covered by my insurance?
- Most major insurance carriers allow coverage for a neuropsychological examination. Some insurance
companies limit them to one per calendar year. Our office is contracted with many insurance carriers,
including Medicare. Please contact our office for specific information on your insurance carrier.
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