What is clinical neuropsychology?

Clinical neuropsychology is a specialized branch of psychology that focuses on brain behavior and functioning. A clinical neuropsychologist is a licensed psychologist with additional training and expertise in how certain thinking skills and behavior are related to brain structures and systems.

What are the benefits of a neuropsychological evaluation?

There are many ways that a neuropsychological evaluation can be helpful, including:

• Documenting an individual’s cognitive strengths and weaknesses

• Diagnosing neurocognitive disorders or mental illness

• Evaluating the severity of brain dysfunction of various neurological and medical disorders

• Recommending effective treatment to help manage an individual’s condition

• Providing education and support to individuals and their families about diagnoses and treatments

What can I expect on the day of the neuropsychological evaluation?

A neuropsychological evaluation is longer than a typical visit to the doctor and can take as long as 3-8 hours depending on an individual’s capabilities and the reason for the referral. An evaluation day typically involves:

• An interview that reviews current symptoms and an individual’s history. This can take about an hour to two hours depending on the complexity of an individual’s condition.

• Administration of paper-and-pencil and computer tasks, like memory and language tests. This is typically the lengthier part of the evaluation and can take anywhere from an hour to several hours.

• Completion of questionnaires by an individual and/or a family member.

• Breaks throughout the entirety of the evaluation, including a break for lunch.

How do I get the results?

Individuals and their families are invited for a feedback session to discuss the results of testing. The feedback session is typically scheduled 2-3 weeks after the completion of testing. Individuals and the referring provider will also be sent a comprehensive neuropsychological report of the test findings, diagnoses, and recommendations for further treatment.

What insurance is accepted?

Tierra Alta Neuropsychology accepts the following:

• Medicare (traditional)

• Presbyterian Health Plan (Medicare/Senior Care plans, commercial)

• Self-pay