A neuropsychological evaluation involves testing that is sensitive to individual differences and atypicalities in functions that are mediated by the brain (e.g., learning, behavior, attention, emotions).

Unlike CT or MRI scans, which show the structure of the brain, neuropsychological testing examines how well the brain is working when it performs certain functions (e.g., remembering). Thus, the evaluation can be used to reveal or diagnose brain dysfunction when no structural brain abnormalities can be seen.

  • Results of the evaluation may help to:

    Assist in differential diagnosis

    Understand the impact of a medical, neurological, or psychiatric condition on behavior, emotional, and cognitive functioning

    Contribute to decisions about prognosis, disposition planning, and ability to function independently

    Guide treatment planning and rehabilitation

    Inform educational and vocational planning (e.g., ability to return to work or school)

    Guide educational planning for children and teens related to recommendations for individual education plans (IEP) and 504 Plans

    Track changes in functioning over time

  • What will be involved in an evaluation?

    Most of the tests will involve questions and answers, or working with materials on a table. Some tests may use a computer. The particular tests that will be administered to you or your child depend upon the questions raised by you in the clinical interview. The tests may assess the following areas: intellectual abilities, academic skills, attention and memory, reasoning and problem-solving, visual-spatial functions, language functions, sensory/perceptual functions, motor functions, socialization, and emotional functioning.

    The time involved in the evaluation will depend upon the concerns/questions that are raised (by you or the referring physician) and the age of the individual being assessed. However, they typically last anywhere from several hours to a full day.

    After the evaluation, the clinical neuropsychologist will schedule a time to review results of your evaluation and provide recommendations for care. You will be provided with a detailed neuropsychological report.