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Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ'S

1. What is the purpose of a neuropsychological evaluation
  • A neuropsychological evaluation is a comprehensive assessment of how the brain is functioning in daily life. Brain imaging studies such as CT scans and MRIs show the physical structure of the brain, but they do not measure how well it is working. A neuropsychological evaluation fills that gap by assessing abilities such as memory, attention, language, problem solving, processing speed, and executive functioning. Mood, behavior, and emotional factors are also reviewed since these areas can influence thinking and everyday functioning.
  • The results provide a detailed profile of strengths and challenges. Testing can clarify whether changes reflect normal aging, mild cognitive impairment, dementia, stroke, traumatic brain injury, or another neurological or psychiatric condition. Findings help guide medical treatment, rehabilitation plans, therapy recommendations, and decisions about independence, work readiness, safety, or daily functioning. The evaluation also serves as a baseline that can be used to monitor progression or improvement over time.
  • More than a list of scores, the evaluation offers meaningful insight into how the brain is working and how to support daily life.
  • People are referred when they or others notice changes in memory, attention, reasoning, problem solving, behavior, or emotional functioning. These changes may involve difficulty concentrating, organizing tasks, finding words, remembering information, following conversations, managing responsibilities, or regulating mood and behavior.
  • Referrals are also common when medical conditions affect the brain. These include stroke, epilepsy, traumatic brain injury, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and other causes of dementia. Evaluations help determine whether changes represent normal aging or the early signs of a neurodegenerative condition.

The purpose of the evaluation is to gain a clear and objective understanding of how the brain is functioning in everyday life. This information guides diagnosis, treatment planning, and decisions about care and support.

  • Please bring a photo ID and your insurance card if applicable. Bring a complete list of your current medications and supplements, including dosages. If you wear glasses or hearing aids, please bring them since they help ensure accurate testing.
  • If available, bring copies of relevant medical records, previous evaluations, or brain imaging reports. These documents provide helpful background. Snacks and drinks are welcome and can be enjoyed during breaks. Continue taking your regular medications as prescribed unless your physician has instructed otherwise.
  • Most evaluations last several hours and include time for breaks. It is normal to feel uncertain or anxious at the start, and most patients feel more comfortable once the process begins. The setting is calm and professional, and the pace is adjusted to ensure comfort.
  • The visit begins with a clinical interview to review your history, current concerns, and goals for the evaluation. This is an opportunity for you to ask questions as well. Testing follows the interview. Tasks may involve memory exercises, attention activities, language tasks, problem solving, or paper and pencil tasks. Directions are explained clearly, and you are guided throughout.
  • Feeling mentally tired afterward is common. The effort involved reflects the thoroughness of the assessment. The results provide valuable information that guides diagnosis, recommendations, and practical next steps.
  • Test results create a detailed picture of your cognitive strengths and challenges. They identify subtle changes that may not be obvious in daily life and help determine whether they reflect normal aging or a neurological condition.
  • Different neurological and psychiatric conditions produce different patterns of performance. Results help clarify whether difficulties are related to a medical condition, a neurodegenerative disorder, mood related factors, or another cause. Findings also provide a baseline for future comparison.

Most importantly, results are translated into practical recommendations that support functioning. These may relate to medical treatment, rehabilitation, independence, safety, and daily activities.

  • Results are typically available within two weeks. After testing, a feedback session is scheduled to review the findings in detail. During this meeting you will receive a copy of your report, and the conclusions and recommendations are explained in clear language. Family members may attend if you wish.
  • You will always receive a copy of your report. With your written consent, results can be shared with your referring physician and any other providers involved in your care. Reports may also be shared with family members if you choose. All information is handled with strict attention to privacy and confidentiality.
  • Evaluations are conducted in professional office settings across the western Chicago suburbs. Locations are selected for comfort, privacy, and accessibility. In home evaluations may be arranged when appropriate, and onsite consultations are available in nursing and rehabilitation facilities. You receive the same level of care and thorough assessment regardless of the setting.
  • Insurance coverage varies by plan. Many insurance providers cover neuropsychological evaluations when they are medically necessary. I work with patients to verify benefits and determine coverage before scheduling.
  • If an evaluation is not covered by insurance, flexible payment arrangements are available. The goal is to ensure financial concerns do not prevent access to needed care.
  • Family members and caregivers often provide helpful observations that assist in understanding daily functioning. They may participate in the initial interview and, with your permission, attend the feedback session. Their involvement can improve understanding, communication, and care planning.
  • Get a good night’s sleep and eat before the appointment. Wear comfortable clothing and bring snacks or drinks for breaks. Continue taking medications as prescribed unless directed otherwise by your doctor. Arrive a few minutes early so you can settle in before the appointment begins. These small steps help you perform at your best.
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  • The length of the evaluation depends on the reason for referral and the specific tests needed. Most assessments take between three and six hours, including time for breaks. More complex evaluations may require additional time or a second appointment.
  • A diagnosis is provided when the clinical picture supports one. In some cases, the evaluation may identify cognitive or emotional changes that do not yet meet full criteria for a specific diagnosis. When this occurs, the findings still guide treatment planning and may provide a baseline for comparison in the future. The goal is to be accurate, evidence based, and clinically helpful.
  • An MRI or CT scan shows the physical structure of the brain. A neuropsychological evaluation measures how well the brain is functioning in daily life. Many people with normal brain imaging still experience cognitive or emotional changes. Testing helps identify these changes, clarify their cause, and guide treatment.