Neuropsychology
Neuropsychology is a subspecialty of neurology and psychology. It is dedicated to understanding how a person’s brain and nervous system influence their cognition and behavior. This can affect infants with developmental concerns, adolescents with academic problems, and adults with work, social, and memory challenges.
A neuropsychologist will routinely deal with developmental disorders like autism, attention disorders, brain cancer, concussion and traumatic brain injury, dementia, epilepsy, and stroke.
Neuropsychological Evaluation
A neuropsychological evaluation is performed to understand how the different areas of the brain function. It consists of reviewing a patient’s medical records, and through interviews with them. Family members may be interviewed and asked to share their perspectives on the symptoms. The evaluation also includes a neuropsychological examination using questions, paper and pencil, computers, puzzles, and other procedures. The data is then analyzed.
Depending on the outlook of the evaluation, testing may focus on a range of cognitive functions including concentration, memory, language, organizing, problem-solving, and sensory-motor skills. The neuropsychologist may also perform tests concerning a patient’s mood, behavior, and personality.