A neuropsychological evaluation consists of the following stages:

Consultation/Clinical Interview 

All evaluations start with an initial intake/clinical interview. This meeting is designed to gather important information regarding current symptoms and concerns as well as obtaining comprehensive information regarding the patient's developmental, medical, behavioral, emotional, learning, and family histories.

• Consultation may also take place with any other treating professionals (e.g., neurologists, primary care physicians, and/or psychiatrists).

• At the conclusion of this meeting, the neuropsychologist will discuss the evaluation process and will let you know what additional information will be needed to complete the assessment.

Testing/Assessment

The neuropsychological assessment involves a combination of paper-and-pencil and computerized tests. While many tasks are game-like/"brain-teasers", others involve responding to questions, solving problems, learning and remembering information, or academic-type tasks.  

• The evaluation usually ranges from 4-6 hours to complete. Depending on the questions and concerns being assessed through the testing, the evaluation length may vary. For some individuals the test day may be split into two days.

• As needed, patients take breaks throughout the test day. Additionally, a longer, one-hour lunch break is provided mid-day.

The neuropsychologist may also request additional information such as:

• Standardized and open-ended questionnaires regarding the patient’s functioning. Parents and (often) teachers are asked to complete these forms.

• Medical/School Records: Copies of all relevant medical (e.g., seizure treatment, head injury treatment, MRI's, etc.) and school records (e.g., SAT scores, report cards, etc.).

• Release of Information Forms: Parents and individuals over 18 will be required to complete a Release of Information form if they would like the neuropsychologist to speak with, receive, and/or provide information to any individuals regarding the results of the evaluation.

Feedback/Information Conference

A follow-up/feedback appointment occurs 1-2 weeks after the evaluation. During this feedback information regarding the results of testing, diagnostic impressions, and recommendations are comprehensively reviewed.

• Children and Adolescents are encouraged to come in for a separate feedback session to hear a modified, age-appropriate version of the results.

• Some families may require additional follow-up and consultation for a more comprehensive understanding of their child or for ongoing monitoring and management.

Evaluation Report

A comprehensive report will be generated after the feedback appointment and once all additional information (e.g., teacher forms) has been reviewed. This document describes, in much greater depth, the results and recommendations from the evaluation.