The Evaluation Process

Depending upon the questions to be addressed by the evaluation, and the nature of your condition, an evaluation can take anywhere between a few hours to a day and a half.

Prior to your visit, any records forwarded to us from other specialists are reviewed.

At the beginning of your visit, we discuss the reasons for an evaluation, the questions to be answered, and your medical history. We will also discuss issues or events in your life that may have had a significant impact on your emotional or cognitive function and be relevant to your current difficulty.

The clinical interview is an opportunity to explain your understanding of the evaluation, the problems you are experiencing, your background and history as they relate to your current problems, and any other details that might be potentially relevant to the evaluation.

After the interview, a variety of standardized neuropsychological and psychological tests are administered. These involve activities such as answering questions and solving puzzles of various types.

The same tests are not administered in every evaluation. They are selected with your specific questions in mind. The selection of tests can also change as results are obtained.

After testing is over, your neuropsychologist interprets the results and compares your scores to others of your age. Factors such as your education and other information from your life history are also taken into account, so that we compare your test results to what would be expected of you and not just of everyone your age. Results are then compiled into a written report.

Depending on the nature of the evaluation, you may have an opportunity to meet or discuss the findings and recommendations. Copies of your report are sent to whomever you authorize, typically at least including the physician who referred you to us (for clinical patients) or to the relevant referral source (in forensic cases).

Forensic evaluations typically require more time, often taking place over at least two days and require longer clinical interviews.