Cognitive and Neuropsychological Testing
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We provide both brief and comprehensive neuropsychological evaluations, based upon the needs of the client and/or the referring health care professional. Neuropsychological testing examines the individual’s cognitive and behavioral performance in terms of brain-behavior functioning. Testing measures what the individual can optimally do.
Neuropsychological testing includes an individual interview, verbal reasoning tasks, visual and motor coordination tests, paper and pencil examination, and computer-based testing. Testing can be employed to screen for specific deficits, and as a component in more comprehensive examinations.
Who is an appropriate candidate for neuropsychological testing? Individuals suffering any of the following may benefit from testing:
· Traumatic head injury
· Cerebral vascular accidents
· Cardiac rehabilitation
· Post-concussion syndrome
· Degenerative medical problems
· Dementia and geriatric cognitive disorders
· Geriatric cognitive testing
· Developmental disorders
· Atypical learning problems
What abilities are assessed in neuropsychological testing? A range of cognitive and behavioral abilities can be measured, including:
- Sensori-perceptual functioning
- Motor functioning
- Verbal reasoning
- Memory abilities
- Abstract reasoning
The tests can be helpful in the assessment of:
What is required of the patient who needs neuropsychological testing?
Neuropsychological Screening: The time required for neuropsychological screening can be as brief as a ninety minute clinical interview and history, accompanied by two hours of formal testing and preparation of a summary evaluation note. The time from interview to completion of the evaluation report is typically five working days or less.
Comprehensive Neuropsychological Evaluation: A comprehensive evaluation includes a clinical interview and history; six to ten hours of performance testing; and preparation of a detailed personal report. Comprehensive neuropsychological evaluation includes administration of batteries (Halstead-Reitan and Luria Nebraska), memory assessment (WMS-IV), TOVA examination, intelligence testing (WAIS-IV), computer-based tests for visual processing, and frontal lobe testing.
Testing can often be conducted on two consecutive days or over the course of several days depending on the individual’s availability. From initial interview to completion of the report is typically accomplished in ten to twelve working days.
Initial consultation may be arranged by calling our office at 310/536-0211 or emailing us at pacificpsych@aol.com.
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