Neuropsychology is a specialized branch of psychology that integrates neuroscience, cognitive functioning, and psychology/behavior.
1/10
A Neuropsychological Evaluation is an in-depth assessment of an individual's cognitive, emotional, and behavioral functioning. It involves a detailed investigation of an individual's developmental, medical, social, and psychological history, in addition to an extensive testing battery sensitive to brain functioning problems. Unlike CT or MRI scans, which show what the brain's structure looks like, neuropsychological testing examines how well the brain is working when it performs certain functions, such as remembering what you did yesterday or a year ago.
A wide range of diseases, disorders, and injuries can negatively impact cognitive functioning and one's ability to function efficiently in daily life. Whether you're seeking clarification on a specific issue or aiming to optimize your overall well-being, our neuropsychological evaluations are tailored to meet your unique needs.
The evaluation typically involves reviewing relevant documents (e.g., medical records, previous assessments), a clinical interview with the patient (and family member, if applicable), a few hours of neuropsychological testing using standardized measures of cognition, the production of a written report, and a feedback session for the patient and family.
Neuropsychological testing involves administering multiple tests of cognitive and perceptual skills sensitive to problems in brain functioning. The types of tests will depend upon the referral questions, but it is typically measure intellectual abilities, academic abilities, attention, processing speed, learning and memory, reasoning and problem-solving, visuospatial and visuoconstructional functions, language, sensory/perceptual/motor skills, and emotional functioning. This information is linked back to brain structures to provide information regarding the impact of any identified areas of difficulty on a person's mood, behavior, and everyday functioning.
Prior to your Appointment
You will be sent an email including intake forms and other relevant paperwork to be completed at least 48 hours before your first visit. After a date is agreed upon, you will receive a calendar invite for the virtual session. You will need a computer or iPad/table to complete the evaluation, which can be completed in a single session or multiple appointments (1-3 visits).
On the Day of the Interview/Testing
After the Evaluation
After your evaluation is complete, a follow-up appointment with Dr. Barnes will be scheduled two weeks later to discuss your results. The interview, testing appointment, and follow-up are included in your co-pay ( PAYMENTS & FEES). During the follow-up session, Dr. Barnes will provide you or your loved one with a diagnosis, recommendations, tools to utilize at home, and referrals to other doctors as needed. Dr. Barnes will compose a report summarizing the findings, which will be sent to you and your referring provider, if applicable.
Please get in touch with us for any additional questions you may have.
It’s my priority to make you feel at ease. It can feel scary to sit for an assessment. Feeling anxious, unsettled, or nervous about the process is normal. Testing can sometimes feel like a cold process. I promise, there’s nothing to be afraid of. It is not like school—there are no right or wrong answers; it is not a pass-or-fail situation. Instead, it’s a way to gain a comprehensive understanding of what you’re going through. I will meet YOU genuinely interested in where you’ve been and what’s happening. You will experience a YOU-centered, judgment-free space. I hope my easygoing and friendly nature makes you comfortable. When you work with me, you won’t experience a cold approach at the expense of a personal connection—instead, warmth and kindness. I will work with you to understand your cognitive strengths and give tips to improve any cognitive weaknesses or declines. Whatever your diagnosis, I want to empower you with information so you can confidently understand your brain health and plan for the future.