What is Neuropsychology
Neuropsychology studies brain dysfunction and its effect on human behavior. Clinical neuropsychology applies this knowledge to evaluate, treat, and rehabilitate people with suspected or demonstrated neurological problems.
The Purpose of a Neuropsychological Evaluation
| • | To describe the presence and degree of cognitive impairments and explain the mechanisms responsible for their perpetuation |
| • | To evaluate behavioral impairments resulting from brain injury |
| • | To establish a baseline of function that allows systematic comparisons across time |
| • | To measure the impact of rehabilitation on pharmacologic / surgical interventions |
| • | To provide a blueprint for the formulation of cognitive and behavioral rehabilitation programs |
| • | To guide the planning and development of remedial education or vocational rehabilitation programs for individuals with neurologic impairments |
| • | To predict the individual's ability to resume his/her premorbid lifestyle |
| • | To provide documentation for litigation concerned with functional impact of brain injury on cognitive and interpersonal behavior |
Neuropsychological Consultation
| • | an answer to the diagnostic dilemma |
| • | a response to a growing health problem |
| • | a comprehensive approach to clinical evaluation |
| • | a support system for families |
| • | prompt detailed reports to the referring physician, attorney, or agency |
| • | application of the most current research in the field |
| • | disability determination for vocational rehabilitation clients |
| • | education programs for both medical and non-medical audiences |
