Neuropsychology & Memory Care Clinic
What Is Neuropsychology
Neuropsychologists are licensed psychologists whose field of study is concentrated on brain functioning. The brain is an incredibly complex organ that governs our bodies, guides our thoughts, and filters our feelings.
When something goes wrong with the brain, it is imperative to find out exactly how that affects a person’s thoughts, emotions and behavior.
The Neuropsychologist’s goal is to answer those questions and to then design and deliver treatment aimed at resolving any problems uncovered.
Evaluation
A neuropsychological evaluation consists of a clinical interview, followed by the administration of tests that tap various motor, cognitive, and perceptual skills. Neuropsychological tests do not involve the use of machines like X-Ray and MRI studies do.
Rather, they typically consist of measures in the forms of questionnaires, manipulative tasks, puzzles and memory exercises. Unlike brain imaging, which shows us what the brain looks like, neuropsychological testing determines how well the brain is functioning during activities like speaking, listening, and problem-solving.
If you are to be evaluated, you will not be spending all of your time taking tests. Rather, you will first consult with the Doctor so that he or she can have a chance to learn about your unique situation.
Frequently, the Neuropsychologist will also ask you for permission to speak with a friend or relative to gain a better understanding of your day-to-day functioning from that person’s point of view. All of this information is gathered to help the Doctor select the most appropriate tests for you.
Testing can take anywhere from two to six hours, and in some cases even more. Longer evaluations are sometimes divided into several appointments.
You are free to take breaks during the testing and, in fact, your comfort during your evaluation is of the utmost importance at Carter Psychology Center. If you have any questions at any point in time, the Doctor will be happy to answer them for you.
Assessment
Memory and thinking abilities inevitably decline with age. A Neuropsychological Assessment measures the amount of decline and lets you know whether it is normal for your age.
The Neuropsychological Assessment at the Carter Memory Care Clinic is conducted by highly trained and qualified experts. The assessment typically includes evaluation of the following:
Each individual’s test results and treatment recommendations are reviewed with them in detail.
Who May Request an Assessment
Individuals may request a Neuropsychological Assessment at any stages of memory decline:
- Healthy, independently functioning adults who want to obtain a picture of their level of memory wellness.
- Individuals who want to obtain a “baseline” of their memory and thinking wellness to create a reference/comparison point for the future.
- Individuals noticing memory or other thinking changes who want to find out if these changes are normal.
- Individuals with substantial memory and other thinking problems looking for a diagnosis, information, treatment, and answers.
- Individuals diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment or dementia.
- Individuals struggling with stress, depression, anxiety, or other mood and behavior changes.
- Attorneys or Physicians.
How to Request an Appointment
Anyone may contact our office for an appointment, including the patient’s doctor, nurse, the patient him/herself, or family members.
Neuropsychological Testing FAQ
How does neuropsychological testing help me?
The test results provides your treating physician with a map of your brain. Unlike an MRI which maps brain cell health, neuropsychological testing maps how well your brain performs critical functions such as movement, sensation, memory, and information processing. This information allows you and your doctor to take full advantage of strengths, work around weaknesses, and target therapies to maximize your lifestyle and wellbeing.
How much does neuropsychological testing cost?
Most insurance policies, including Medicare do pay for this important procedure. They know that the results will save them money by maximizing your health and wellbeing.
Does neuropsychological testing hurt?
No. This procedure involves paper and pencil (and sometimes computerized) tasks. There is no pain, no machines, no electrodes.
How long does neuropsychological testing take?
The time needed varies depending on the specific procedure you need. We block out three hours for a comprehensive testing and we ask that you do the same. Only a few people need all three hours but we want you relaxed and free of the pressures of time.
What should I do to prepare for neuropsychological testing?
Although it is called a test, there is no right nor wrong responses. So, no preparation is needed. Please do bring your glasses and hearing aids with you, and have breakfast so that you do not get hungry during the procedure. Take all of your medications, except for any amphetamines, as directed. If you are on amphetamines, bring them with you and tell the doctor.
I think I have dementia, why bother knowing that? There is nothing I can do.
There are several forms of memory and intellectual impairment that are, in fact, treatable. Symptoms such as declining memory can be successfully treated in these cases. Moreover, there are strategies that can be used to reduce the impact of declining memory and promote independent living. The neuropsychological testing will tell us which strategies are best for you.
Will the doctor take away my driver’s license?
No. Doctors do not take away licenses. It is a rare case that requires us to recommend that you stop driving. Our goal is to find ways for you to live your life the way you want to live it.
Carter Psychology Center provides the highest quality, efficient, and effective care to individuals of all ages.
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