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What is Neuropsychology?
Neuropsychology is the scientific study of brain-behavior relationships. The knowledge is used to evaluate and treat individuals with neurological problems impacting on development, learning, behavior, cognitive functioning, and social-emotional development.
What is a Neuropsychologist?
A neuropsychologist is a psychologist who specializes in evaluating and treating individuals who are thought to have a problem in the way their brains are functioning. A neuropsychologist has had education and training related to the anatomy, physiology, and pathology of the nervous system. A neuropsychologist also has had specific training in evaluating and treating different kinds of central nervous system disorders.
What is Neuropsychological Assessment?
A neuropsychological assessment may include evaluation of the following areas:
• intellectual functioning • academic achievement (reading, writing, math) • ability to learn and remember • language functions • visual/spatial functions • attention/concentration/executive functions • sensorimotor functions • personality / social emotional development • adaptive behavior • interpersonal relationships |
As part of the neuropsychological assessment a comprehensive history is taken which includes information regarding pregnancy, birth, health, development, education, and day-to-day functioning.
Why Refer for Neuropsychological Assessment?
An individual be referred for neuropsychological assessment for the following reasons:
• problems with attention span and distractibility • problems with learning • problems with development • problems with behavior |
An individual may also referred for assessment is he/she has the following conditions or problems:
• Experienced a brain injury and there are concerns with behavior/learning/cognitive functioning. • Experienced a concussion and decisions need to be made with respect to work, school, and sports participation • Is undergoing a medical treatment which can affect behavior/learning/cognitive functioning (radiation, chemotherapy, anticonvulsant medication). • Been exposed to a toxic substance and there are concerns with behavior/learning/cognitive functioning. • Has had a stroke • Has a seizure disorder • Has metabolic problems • Has endocrine problems • Premature birth / in utero exposure to drugs/alcohol |
The functional purposes for the evaluation can be varied and include:
•To describe the degree of impairment •To measure progress and development •To assist in the development and implementation of educational and therapeutic plans •To assist teachers and therapists with challenging behaviors •To assist parents/spouses/caregivers in understanding the individual more fully. |