Neuropsychological Services at the Alexian Neurosciences Institute
Our Tests, Treatments, and Therapies
We treat a wide range of conditions that include developmental disorders including learning disabilities or attention deficit disorders; neurological conditions including dementia, stroke, multiple sclerosis, or traumatic brain injury; other medical conditions such as sleep disorders, liver disease, or cardiac conditions; or psychiatric issues such as anxiety and depression.
When is a neuropsychological evaluation needed?
A neuropsychological evaluation is used to assess cognitive and behavioral functions. This helps to determine how your brain works when performing tasks such as learning new information or solving problems. It is also used to determine which mental functions may be impaired and to what degree.
The evaluation can also contribute to decisions about rehabilitation potential, ability to return to work or school, capacity to function independently, and educational and vocational options.
Neuropsychological evaluations are used the diagnosis and treatment of:
- Traumatic brain injury
- Alzheimer's disease and other dementias
- Brain tumors
- Psychiatric illnesses such as depression or anxiety
- Learning disabilities and attention deficit disorders
- Parkinson's disease
- Stroke
- Other neurological conditions including epilepsy and multiple sclerosis
Neuropsychological evaluations can also be useful in other medical conditions known to have secondary effects on cognitive functions such as liver disease, diabetes, cardiovascular conditions, and metabolic disorders.
Neuropsychological testing involves assessment of a variety of mental functions, including:
- Intelligence
- Attention, memory, and learning
- Reasoning and problem solving
- Organizational skills
- Language and the ability to communicate
- Visual and spatial abilities
- Motor abilities
- Academic skills
- Emotions and behavior
- Independent living skills
The neuropsychological evaluation begins with an extensive clinical interview with the clinical neuropsychologist. This interview is followed by a series of non-invasive tests to help assess various mental functions.
What should I expect after the neuropsychological evaluation?
The neuropsychologist will prepare a detailed report that includes the results of the specific tests administered, conclusions, and recommendations for treatment. With your permission, the neuropsychologist may send your evaluation results to the healthcare provider who referred you so that you can discuss them during your next office visit. You can also schedule an appointment with the neuropsychologist to review the details of your evaluation.
We will help you plan strategies for rehabilitation, and assist with practical issues such as assessing ability to drive or manage finances and medications. If needed, we will refer you to other medical and rehabilitation professionals for evaluation and treatment.
