Frequently Asked Questions
When does someone need to be assessed or tested?
When an individual's behaviors cause social, academic, or occupational dysfunction a neuropsychological assessment can determine whether cognitive or psychological disorders are the cause and what type of treatment is indicated.
Neurologists, psychiatrists, attorneys, and other professionals typically request neuropsychological assessments to clarify diagnostic questions or document the presence of cognitive impairments.
Other reasons for assessment include diagnosis of developmental delays, autistic spectrum disorders, identify learning disabilities, or confirm the presence of neurodegenerative disorders such as dementias.
How long does testing or assessment take?
The referral question determines the length of the assessment. A comprehensive assessment can take between one and two days, depending on the capacity of the patient to tolerate the demands of testing and other related issues.
What is covered in a neuropsychological evaluation?
A thorough medical, developmental, and academic achievement history, review of prior medical or academic records, collateral interviews as indicated (i.e., parents, teachers, family members), test administration, scoring and interpretation, a written report including diagnosis and treatment or service recommendations, and a personal debriefing when appropriate.
Psychological and neuropsychological tests are primarily pencil and paper tests. The examiner may ask a patient to answer questions, solve different kinds of problems, learn new information, and so forth. Sometimes a patient will be asked to demonstrate fine motor dexterity, or draw shapes. No physically invasive procedures are involved.
Who conducts the testing?
Dr. Goldberg is responsible for the quality and accuracy of all testing and reports. Whenever possible, she conducts the assessment herself. From time to time her registered psychological assistant(s) will administer some of the tests, conduct interviews, and or compile medical records. Anytime a psychological assistant is involved in the process you will be advised prior to beginning the evaluation.
When will I get my results?
A verbal debriefing of the process and results is typically scheduled after testing is completed. During the debriefing, Dr. Goldberg will explain the results of the testing, answer your questions, and discuss treatment and service recommendations with you. A full written report will then be completed and forwarded to you and/or the referring party or physician, based on the type of evaluation that was conducted. Reports directed to family and patients are written in understandable language.
Forensic, court-ordered assessments, and medical-legal assessment reports are provided only to the referring attorney.
Who else will receive the report?
Evaluation reports are provided to the referring party (e.g., physicians or attorneys). Reports are not released to other parties without proper authorization by the patient.
May I see the raw test data?
Psychological and neuropsychological test materials are copyrighted and protected by publishers to preserve the integrity of the measures and to ensure the validity of their administration and utility. Only professionals who are specially trained to administer these tests and properly interpret results should have access to raw data and test materials.
Do you accept insurance?
No insurance is accepted. Patients are responsible for filing their own claims to insurance companies for reimbursement if they wish. Patients are provided with receipts, description of services, dates of evaluations, and all the appropriate paperwork required to file for reimbursement, including procedure codes, lists of tests administered (if applicable), and diagnosis. However, all feeds are due and payable at time of service.
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