Neuropsychological Services
What is a neuropsychological evaluation?
Individuals can self-refer or be referred by a doctor or other healthcare provider for a neuropsychological evaluation. Neuropsychological evaluations are completed when there are questions/concerns about memory, learning, attention, or other cognitive function.
Neuropsychological evaluations are recommended in a variety of circumstances including:
- Concerns about cognitive functioning if there has been a history of injury or illness, such as traumatic brain injury, stroke, seizure disorder, or brain tumor.
- Concerns about cognitive functioning (often, the concerns are about memory) in an adult where they may be concerns about dementia (i.e., Alzheimer’s).
- Determination if there is a diagnosis of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in a child, adolescent, or adult. I see individuals for ADHD assessment beginning in childhood and throughout the lifespan.
- Determination if there is a Learning Disability (reading, writing, and/or mathematics) in a child, adolescent or adult. As with ADHD evaluations, I see individuals for learning disability assessment beginning in childhood throughout the lifespan.
What can I expect if I am referred for a neuropsychological evaluation or if I refer myself for a neuropsychological evaluation?
A neuropsychological evaluation consists of three appointments:
- The first appointment is a 1-hour intake interview. I will gather information from you about your concerns and learn more about your background (educational history, job history, medical history, etc.).
- The second appointment is a 2-3 hour appointment where we complete cognitive testing. Cognitive testing includes testing an individual’s memory, attention, processing speed, language, and academic abilities using standardized tests. The measures are both paper and pencil and computerized.
- The third appointment is the feedback session. This session is dedicated to talking about the results of the testing and what they actually mean. We will also discuss recommendations and “next steps.†A comprehensive report is written by Dr. Lumpkin and can be sent to a referring/treating provider and a report is provided to you for your own records.
What is cognitive functioning?
The term “cognitive†or “cognition†refers to memory, attention, processing speed, reasoning, language, and academic skills, etc. Cognitive functioning is basically how someone thinks and reasons through information and new situations.
