Neuropsychological
Testing

"Neuropsych evals," as they are often called, use tests that measure behaviors, in order to determine how the brain is functioning. Behaviors measured can include one's thinking processes or physical skills, i.e., fine-motor skills of writing or drawing. 

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Typically, neuropsych evals measure attention, memory and learning, problem-solving, language-based skills, visual skills, and social-emotional factors. "IQ" or other measures of overall cognitive functioning, may be a part of a neuropsychological evaluation.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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When is a Neuropsychological Evaluation needed?

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Whenever there is a need for diagnosis or treatment planning, a neuropsychological evaluation is invaluable. It provides a detailed assessment of abilities and identifies patterns of strengths and weaknesses. This data is used to inform detailed recommendations. Common referral concerns include the following:  

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• Attention or learning problems that have been identified in school, work, home, or community.

• Low speed of thinking, or efficiency of problem-solving.

• Memory problems. 

• Concerns pertaining to mood, irritability, anxiety, inflexibility, and social functioning.

• An injury or illness that has occurred, impacting brain functioning (MindSpan San Diego typically refers out for cases related to traumatic brain injury and some cases of dementia). 

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Testing Specialties

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Testing may be comprehensive or abbreviated, depending on your needs. We offer expertise in explaining the overlap of learning & mood with careful clinical assessment of the following:

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• Attention & Executive Functioning  (including "ADHD testing")

• Anxiety & Post-Traumatic Stress (including evaluation for PTSD)

• Mood & Temperamental Sensitivity (including depression and anxiety)

• Social and Neurodevelopmental Functioning (including evaluations for autism spectrum disorder, and other concerns pertaining to neurodiversity, i.e., Nonverbal Learning Disorder, Sensory Processing Disorder, Social Pragmatic Communication Disorder)

• Learning Differences (including dyslexia and intellectual giftedness)

 

What is involved in the testing process?
 

There is an initial clinical interview lasting one to two hours, where background information is collected, including current concerns, history of concerns, and family history. It is preferable to have a significant other present for this portion, as additional perspectives add objectivity and enrich the evaluation. 

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The testing itself is completed in a comfortable office, one-on-one with the evaluator, and can range from three to eight hours, depending on the concerns. Testing may be completed in two visits in the same week, if needed. Other than having a good night sleep beforehand, and taking any prescribed medications as usual, there is nothing you have to do to prepare for the evaluation. 

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Activities within the tests may call upon you to listen to and remember information, solve visual puzzles, or engage in various tasks of reading, writing, speaking, drawing, or calculating. They may call upon you to write or speak your responses. Some, but not all tasks are timed. 

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After the evaluator has scored and interpreted the data, a report is written. This process may take a few weeks, after which an hourlong feedback session is scheduled, in order to review the results. 

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How is testing data interpreted?

How can scores help explain my symptoms?

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First, your scores are compared to scores from a large group of similar-aged peers. This comparison helps determine whether your scores are normal or expected, given your age and educational background. Secondly, there may be patterns within your sets of scores that can suggest changes in certain abilities. Your style or approach to various tasks is also observed, and all scores are considered in the context of these behavioral observations. In addition, each of these levels of interpretation is useful in identifying both shortcomings and strengths. 

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Payment

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Specific fees for testing vary by individual needs, and can be discussed at an initial phone consultation. We are not contracted with any insurance companies. If the evaluation is necessary for a medical reason, many plans cover 50%-75% of the testing cost. If you have secondary or supplemental insurance, the remainder may be covered. If you have verified coverage with your health insurance company, we can provide you with the paperwork to submit for reimbursement. Some portions, including academic testing, are not covered. 

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Serving children (ages 5+), adolescents, college students, and adults. 

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