A neuropsychology evaluation is a way to understand how the brain is working by objectively testing a person's memory, thinking skills, and psychological functioning. This is done with a variety of cogntive tests that look at your different brain functions (see What is cognitive testing? for more info). An evaluation also involves gathering information about the person's background, medical and psychiatric history, and symptoms as a way to better understand the changes the person is experiencing in the context of their life. This information is then used to answer some specific questions related, but not limited, to clarifying a diagnosis (e.g., Alzheimer's Disease versus Lewy Body Dementia), identifying other factors that could be contributing to the problem (e.g., depression, medical issues), determining cognitive strengths and weaknesses, or treatment planning. Recommendations to help guide treatment and address or prevent any issues are then provided. The final steps in the process are to compile all the information into a report that will be discussed with you in a feedback session. The final report is then sent to your providers of choice.

Cognitive testing is not medically invasive and most is completed via paper-pencil or computer. You will be asked to complete various standardized and research-based tests and other questionnaires, which give information about your thinking and how your brain is working. The tests tap into the different functions of your brain such as general intellect, memory, language, attention, visuospatial skills, flexible thinking, judgment, and problem-solving. While neuroimaging, like CT or MRI, shows if and where there is structural damage to the brain, cognitive testing is able to see how a person performs certain tasks that are dependent on brain activity. These tasks are important for successful and independent everyday functioning. Furthermore, different diseases have certain "fingerprints" as far as how they affect your brain. Cognitive tests are able to pick up on these specific "fingerprints", whereas at times structural imaging cannot. In this way, for instance, cognitive testing can tease apart things like dysfunction from normal aging.

You were referred for a neuropsychological evaluation because either you, your family, or your doctor expressed some concerns about changes in your thinking, behavior, or emotional functioning. The changes could be due to a number of reasons such as medical, psychological, situational, or neurological. The evaluation will help tease these factors apart to help you and your doctor understand what's going on in your specific situation. For instance, an evaluation can tease apart Mild Cognitive Impairment from dementia or normal aging, or dementia from depression. However, at times, you and your doctor know the cause of your difficulties, for example stroke or traumatic brain injury. Thus, an evaluation may have been recommended to provide clarification on how your injury, illness, or medical event has affected your thinking, mental health, or daily functioning and what resources and strategies would be helpful to optimize your daily functioning and independence. ​ Other reasons a person is referred for an evaluation is to assess the effectiveness of a treatment, get a baseline of your cognitive functioning before a treatment is given, or for general treatment planning purposes.

I do not accept insurance. If you would still like to complete a neuropsychological evaluation these are your options: Self-pay: pay the cost of the evaluation in full. Credit card payment is available if needed for an additional fee. Partial reimbursement from your insurance company through your out-of-network coverage. Out-of -Network Reimbursement With out-of-network reimbursement, you pay for the evaluation upfront and then file an out-of-network reimbursement claim to your insurance. This will require submitting a "Superbill" (a detailed receipt of the diagnosis code(s) and procedure codes [CPT codes]) to your insurance, which I will provide you. This process is done solely between you and the insurance. I do not bill insurance directly for out-of-network reimbursement. Before scheduling an evaluation, in order to make a more informed financial decision, I encourage you to contact your insurance directly. Here are some questions you will want to ask: What are my out-of-network benefits for a neuropsychological evaluation? How much will I be reimbursed for these "CPT codes"? 96116 96121 96132 96133 96136 96137 What is the unit limit for codes 96133 and 96137? What is my deductible? What percentage of the cost will I be reimbursed after meeting my deductible? It is also important to ask how exactly to submit a claim just so you have all the information and the process goes smoothly. If there is any other information your insurance needs about me please let me know and I will gladly provide you with what I can.

Preparing for the initial intake appointment Have all forms completed Bring any necessary records for review (e.g., medical records, reports from prior psychological or educational testing) You're encouraged to bring a family member who knows you well Preparing for the testing session The night before: Get a good night's rest. Avoid drug or alcohol intoxication. The day of: Take all medications as prescribed and bring them with you in case you are due for your next dose during the testing session. Eat a good breakfast, or lunch depending on what time of day you are scheduled. Bring any sensory aids like hearing aids or glasses. Wear comfortable clothing. Bring snacks in case you get hungry during the session and possibly lunch if the session stretches beyond lunch. You are welcome to bring a family member who can wait in the waiting room and complete questionnaires while he/she waits.