What is a Neuropsychological Evaluation?
The neuropsychological evaluation provides an objective and quantified assessment of cognitive ability, behavior, and emotional status for the purpose of evaluating brain functioning. The evaluation provides a wealth of information that assists in answering several questions. A frequent question addressed is the reason for an individual’s functional difficulties, and the results from a neuropsychological evaluation provide important information for the diagnosis of conditions, such as dementia.
In addition to diagnostic questions, neuropsychological evaluations are helpful in identifying cognitive changes that may accompany diagnosed neurological illnesses or injuries, such as stroke, traumatic brain injury, and multiple sclerosis, among other conditions. Such information is essential in guiding treatment plans, determining appropriate resources and assistance, and monitoring for recovery or progression. Similarly, the neuropsychological evaluation can determine strengths and weaknesses related to neurodevelopmental disorders, such as learning disabilities or Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, which is necessary for treatment and educational planning.
A typical neuropsychological evaluation consists of an interview and testing. The interview entails a review of your symptoms, medical history, medications, and other important information. Testing involves paper-and-pencil or computerized tests. There is no “medical testing” involved.
The amount of time needed to complete the evaluation varies, however, most evaluations require several hours in order to assess the many skills involved understanding an individual’s neuropsychological condition.
In addition to diagnostic questions, neuropsychological evaluations are helpful in identifying cognitive changes that may accompany diagnosed neurological illnesses or injuries, such as stroke, traumatic brain injury, and multiple sclerosis, among other conditions. Such information is essential in guiding treatment plans, determining appropriate resources and assistance, and monitoring for recovery or progression. Similarly, the neuropsychological evaluation can determine strengths and weaknesses related to neurodevelopmental disorders, such as learning disabilities or Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, which is necessary for treatment and educational planning.
A typical neuropsychological evaluation consists of an interview and testing. The interview entails a review of your symptoms, medical history, medications, and other important information. Testing involves paper-and-pencil or computerized tests. There is no “medical testing” involved.
The amount of time needed to complete the evaluation varies, however, most evaluations require several hours in order to assess the many skills involved understanding an individual’s neuropsychological condition.