Frequently Asked Questions
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A neuropsychologist is a psychologist who has completed specialized study and training in neuropsychology. Neuropsychology is the study of how your memory and thinking abilities, mood, and behavior connect to the brain and nervous system. Neuropsychologists obtain a doctorate in psychology, complete a doctoral-level internship, and then complete a two-year postdoctoral fellowship in neuropsychology.
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When someone is referred for a neuropsychological evaluation, they usually have questions about how their brain is working. The purpose of a neuropsychological evaluation is to provide answers to those questions. To do so, the neuropsychologist assesses your memory, attention, language, executive abilities, visuospatial skills, mental health, and your ability to complete daily functional activities. This is accomplished through a clinical interview, medical record review, and cognitive testing.
Cognitive testing includes both paper-pencil and oral activities. You may feel like you are back in school during testing, but rest assured, there is no “pass” or “fail” — just greater understanding of your brain health.
Neuropsychological evaluations are helpful in clarifying diagnosis and in providing treatment recommendations to help improve your quality of life.
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We specialize in the evaluation of cognitive impairment and neurodegenerative conditions that more commonly affect older adults. These conditions include, but are not limited to, dementia due to Alzheimer’s disease, vascular disease, and Lewy bodies. Sometimes, changes in memory and thinking can occur for other reasons, such as depression or anxiety, the effects of medication, chronic pain, or other medical conditions, such as multiple sclerosis or normal pressure hydrocephalus. Through a comprehensive evaluation, we attempt to offer clarification on the cause of your cognitive concerns.
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An evaluation is split into two appointments. The first appointment includes the clinical interview with you and your family, as well as the cognitive testing. Typically, the first appointment takes 2-4 hours (1 hour for the interview and 1-3 hours for testing). The second appointment is used to discuss the results of the evaluation. This appointment is scheduled for 1 hour. Depending on your availability, we schedule the second appointment within 1-2 weeks of the first appointment.
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Currently, we are only providing evaluations through Telehealth. Telehealth offers the convenience of meeting in the comfort of your own home. It also reduces the stress of transportation and ensures safety in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic.
For all services, we use a Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPPA) compliant telemedicine platform.
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- A computer, laptop, or tablet with video capabilities
- A reliable internet connection
- A quiet and comfortable room, with no distractions
- Paper and pencil, with a solid surface to write on
- If needed, hearing aids and glasses
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Your doctor and/or clinician can complete a Referral Form online.
They should be sure to send relevant notes, imaging reports, labwork, etc. through fax: 866-260-0562.