The 91亚色 Psychology Clinic now offers neuropsychological assessment services. We provide neuropsychological assessments across the life span, from children as young as 4 years of age all the way up to our seniors population who may be struggling with memory concerns.
What is a neuropsychologist and how can they help?
A neuropsychologist is a licensed psychologist with expertise in brain and behaviour relationships and knowledge in the interplay among neurological, psychological, and behavioural factors (Ontario Psychological Association, 2016). Clinical neuropsychologists use this expertise to assess, diagnose, treat and support the rehabilitation of individuals throughout the lifespan who are living with neurological, medical, neurodevelopmental or psychiatric conditions, as well as cognitive and learning disorders.
What is the purpose of a neuropsychological evaluation?
A neuropsychological evaluation helps assess an individual鈥檚 neurocognitive, emotional and behavioural functioning. This information, together with information from other health-care providers, helps identify and diagnose neurobehavioural conditions and inform treatment and intervention strategies
You may be referred for a neuropsychological evaluation for a variety of reasons, including to:
- Determine whether changes in cognitive, emotional or behavioural functioning may be related to the structure or functioning of the brain
- Identify strengths and areas of challenge across cognitive domains such as attention, executive functioning, memory, visuospatial skills and language
- Assist with differential diagnosis (i.e. to determine whether possible mental and behavioural changes are related to a neurological/neurodevelopmental disorder, depression, or treatment)
- Inform treatment planning and support personal, educational or vocational goals
- Document changes in functioning over time
- Establish a baseline for comparison with future evaluations
How Testing Works
Standardized tests (that is, tests administered and scored in the same way for all individuals) are used in a neuropsychological evaluation. An individual鈥檚 scores on these tests are interpreted by comparing them with those of healthy individuals from a similar background.
Depending on the reason for the referral, the evaluation may also include an assessment of academic skills.
Brain Imaging
Neuropsychologists do not perform brain scans such as CT scan or MRI to check for brain damage. This type of testing is done by a neuroradiologist, who are physicians with specialized training in medical imaging. A neuropsychologist can relate findings from these scans to the results of cognitive testing.
Concussion Services
A concussion is a mild form of a traumatic brain injury due to a blow to the head or body. Concussions may result in a variety of physical (headaches, dizziness, nausea), cognitive (trouble concentration, memory problems), or psychological (irritability, depression) symptoms.
Most individuals who sustain this injury recover within a few weeks, however, a substantial minority may have a prolonged recovery. Our services are targeted to children, adolescents, and adults who have suffered a concussion(s) during athletic participation or in daily life and are experiencing ongoing difficulties with physical, psychological, and/or cognitive functioning.
Our services include:
- A comprehensive assessment of current cognitive and psychological functioning.
- Evidence-based psychoeducation about concussion injury and recovery.
- Individualized treatment recommendations focused on helping the individual feel and function better.
Please note we do not currently provide assessments for Work Safe and Insurance Board Claims.