While an image of a brain (e.g., MRI) can provide important information about the integrity of brain structures, more subtle, functional, or early stage problems are not detected by most imaging.
Neuropsychological testing reveals the functional status of the different brain networks, and the neuropsychologist can explain how this status would effect an individual in daily life situations, diagnose a condition if appropriate, and make recommendations for intervention and/or accommodation for any problem areas.
The neuropsychologists at NCMA use a combination of interview, screening of movement, balance, and eye movement, as well as neuropsychological tests, including ImPACT, as appropriate during the recovery process to contribute to evaluating progress, managing activities to facilitate recovery, and if necessary, identifying interventions that will further recovery (e.g., physical therapy, neurobehavioral optometry, vestibular therapy, and exertion therapy).
We provide legal neuropsychological consultation related to matters involving possible or confirmed brain injury as well as other neurological and neuropsychological conditions. A neuropsychological examination is useful for establishing whether or not the brain was injured, the extent and nature of injury if present, prognosis, and the effect of such injury on work, school and general daily activities.
This is a targeted evaluation of a patient’s functioning to determine primarily whether someone has Autism Spectrum Disorder. ASD can be particularly subtle in certain individuals, and we seek to provide thorough and astute evaluation of the nuances of social and behavioral functioning in an efficient, clinically useful manner. The process incorporates thorough developmental history, evaluation of cognitive, behavioral, and social patterns typically affected in ASD, and inventory of symptoms and functional impact. Providers strive to determine the extent to which a patient’s reported functional problems are reflective of underlying ASD or alternative factors. We also offer social skills groups for preschoolers and teens to help children enhance social skills and learn skills for making and keeping friends.
This is a targeted evaluation to determine solely whether someone has ADHD. The process incorporates aspects known to be helpful in assessing for ADHD, including acquisition of developmental history, characterization of cognitive and behavioral patterns, and understanding of symptoms’ functional impact in daily life. Providers strive to determine the extent to which a patient’s reported functional problems are reflective of underlying ADHD or alternative factors.