Frequently Asked Questions
Describe clinical neuropsychologists
Clinical neuropsychologists are experts in brain-behavior relationships. We assess, diagnose, treat, and/or rehabilitate patients with neurological, medical, neurodevelopmental and psychiatric conditions, as well as other cognitive and learning disorders. We use psychological, neurological, cognitive, behavioral, and physiological principles, techniques and tests to evaluate patients’ neurocognitive, behavioral, and emotional strengths and weaknesses and their relationship to central nervous system functioning
What does an evaluation involve?
First, I take a psychological history from the client and/or their parents. Then, in order to rule a diagnosis in or out, I perform comprehensive testing of the patient’s memory, IQ, achievement, organization, attention, learning, reasoning, emotional functioning, sensory and motor functioning. Finally, in a follow up consultation I provide diagnoses, discuss test results, and provide recommendations and a comprehensive written report.
What kind of information do I get and how does this help treatment?
We gather information about memory, IQ, psychological functioning in order to make a clear diagnosis for accurate treatment planning. This can involve recommendations regarding medication, and/or additional treatments and non-medication approaches. Recommendations can also include suggestions for school accommodations or home treatments
Why should I have a neuropsychologist perform this evaluation?
We are trained to use a wide variety of assessment tests. Compared to a clinical psychologist, a neuropsychologist is specifically trained and experienced in performing complicated evaluations, and to examine more broadly the possible causes of difficulties.”
Do you attend school meetings to help develop educational
programs for students?
Yes – I can advocate for your child’s educational needs. I can attend meetings with the Special Study Team. Also, as part of an evaluation, I can observe in the classroom, and provide follow-up consultation with the school, such as helping to develop specific plans and goals for counselors and teachers.
Why is a neuropsychological evaluation crucial in a forensic case?
It’s the only way to fully assess and quantify the level of functioning directly related to impact on daily activities and damages. The test results are examined in conjunction with other before and after information, and provide conclusions that cannot be made from other sources of information such as neural imagery. The presence or absence of information about structural damage from neurological injury is insufficient to make conclusions about functioning.
Do you consult with other professionals to enhance the evaluation?
Yes, with clinical work I always consult with the professional providing the treatment and with any other professionals who need to be involved, such as pediatricians, psychotherapists and psychiatrists. In forensic work, consultations might extend to vocational planners and life care planners, economists, and other experts also involved in evaluating the plaintiff.
What Does a Forensic Evaluation Involve?
The forensic evaluation occurs over an entire day and includes an extensive interview, administration of a wide variety of tests, and review of appropriate records. Testing focuses on effort and malingering, intellectual function, attention, speed of information processing, memory, reasoning, executive functioning, and emotional status. After the evaluation is complete, I consult with attorneys about the evaluation results and further steps to take.
How Do You Serve as an Expert Witness?
Following extensive assessment and records review, I am available to testify as an expert witness in settings such as depositions, mediations, and trials. To prepare for testimony, I also consult with attorneys regarding developing demonstrative evidence.