WHAT IS NEUROPSYCHOLOGY?

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What exactly is neuropsychology?

Neuropsychology is the clinical study of the relationship between the brain and behavior. It uses standardized measurement techniques to assess someone's various cognitive domains in an effort to describe their cognitive strengths and weaknesses, as well as assess for cognitive disorders and provide treatment recommendations. 

What is a neuropsychologist?

A neuropsychologist is an independent, doctoral-level psychologist who has completed all the graduate training to earn a doctorate in psychology and then completed an additional two-year postdoctoral fellowship specializing in neuropsychology. Many neuropsychologists begin their specialization during their graduate school years and internship, but what distinguishes a neuropsychologist from a psychologist is the completion of a two-year postdoctoral fellowship in neuropsychology. Unfortunately, many psychologists learn how to administer some neuropsychological measurements during their graduate training and then falsely represent themselves as being able to provide neuropsychological assessment without completing the specialty postdoctoral training. This is dangerous for the public because they are not working with a true specialist and risk receiving incomplete and/or blatantly incorrect results. 

To put it another way, if you had a brain tumor and needed surgery, you likely would not ask your primary care provider to do the surgery because there are neurosurgical specialists who have the training to provide you with the best care. To learn more about what distinguishes a neuropsychologist from other mental health providers, the American Academy of Clinical Neuropsychology has more information:   

AACN Neuropsychology FAQs

What should I expect during a neuropsychological evaluation?

Neuropsychological testing provides comprehensive information about your cognitive abilities, including skills like language, attention, memory, and other domains. By completing a neuropsychological evaluation, you will learn more about your cognitive strengths and weaknesses, including whether you may have a cognitive disorder, and how you may benefit from treatment or rehabilitation. You will also receive recommendations tailored to your life situation with specific suggestions for how you can maximize your cognitive functioning and function to the best of your ability in work, home, and social situations. 

Evaluations begin before the first appointment, when Dr. Kleman reviews your medical records and reason for referral. She then conducts an interview with you and your family regarding your symptoms and medical history. You will complete one-on-one testing with Dr. Kleman, a process which takes anywhere from two to six hours depending on a variety of factors including the referral question and your age. Depending on your needs, testing may be split into multiple appointments. After testing is completed, Dr. Kleman scores and interprets your test data and writes a report with her findings. 

Finally, you and your family will meet with Dr. Kleman to discuss the testing results and recommendations for the future. You will be provided with a copy of the written report that you can share with anyone you wish; Dr. Kleman is also happy to send a copy of the report to your medical providers at your request.