We Care Support uses a neuropsychological assessment in Orlando, FL as a key tool to understand how the brain works. By doing this evaluation, professionals can identify cognitive, behavioral and emotional conditions which help people of all ages get the care and support they require. If you are concerned about a child’s school performance or notice changes in an adult’s memory and behavior, this assessment provides answers based on science and kindness.
What Is the Purpose of a Neuropsychological Assessment?
A neuropsychological assessment looks closely at how your brain functions. It assesses several mental abilities such as memory, attention, language, problem-solving, motor skills and managing emotions. These assessments are carried out by professionals who are licensed psychologists and have expertise in how the brain affects behavior.
While a general psychological evaluation looks at emotions and personality, a neuropsychological assessment examines mental abilities and how the brain works. It tries to understand how different brain regions work and how that affects your daily activities.
What Situations Call for a Neuropsychological Assessment?
A physician, teacher, therapist or parent may refer someone for a neuropsychological assessment for several reasons. Some of the usual reasons for this referral are:
- Children who have trouble learning or doing well in school
- Older adults may experience memory problems or confusion.
- Concerns about attention or possible ADHD
- Changes in behavior after a head injury
- Mood disorders that could be caused by brain changes
- Autism spectrum disorders
- Neurological illnesses such as epilepsy, multiple sclerosis or stroke
It can assist in making a clearer diagnosis, choosing the right treatment and tracking changes in the patient’s condition.
What You Can Expect During a Neuropsychological Assessment
A neuropsychological assessment is usually carried out in several important stages.
- Conduct an Interview and Review the Background Information.
Before the testing starts, the psychologist will talk with you (or your child) to learn about your background. This means looking at the patient’s medical history, their developmental achievements, how they do in school or work, any emotional issues and their social behavior. You will be questioned about the symptoms you are experiencing and when they started. In certain situations, family members or caregivers can give more details about the patient.
- Standardized Testing
This is the main part of the assessment. The person will be asked to complete a set of standardized tasks and puzzles to assess various mental abilities. Some examples are:
- Remembering words, numbers or stories
- Tests that check a person’s ability to understand and use words
- Tasks that require you to pay attention and focus for a long time or do several things at once
- Copying designs or understanding images
- Executive functioning skills (problem-solving, planning and organization)
- The ability to move your body quickly and smoothly
Usually, the tests are done in a calm, private environment and may take several hours, depending on the patient’s age and condition. Taking breaks helps avoid tiredness and ensures the work is done correctly.
- Assessing Emotions and Behaviors
Apart from cognitive tests, the assessment may involve questionnaires or interviews to check emotional health and behavior. They assist in finding out if anxiety, depression or social issues are affecting a person’s daily life.
- A Detailed Report and Feedback are Provided.
When the data collection is complete, the neuropsychologist studies the results and writes a thorough report. This report covers the following:
A summary of the results
- If needed, the diagnoses are included.
- What the company does well and what it needs to improve
- Suggestions for how to address the problem
You will be scheduled for another appointment to review the results, ask questions and plan the next steps. If required, the report may be provided to schools, doctors or other experts to assist with choosing services and accommodations.
The Advantages of a Neuropsychological Assessment
The results from a neuropsychological assessment are extremely useful. Benefits include:
- Finding out what is causing behavioral or learning problems
- Helping to make correct diagnoses
- Helping to decide on the right treatment and therapy goals
- Getting approved for special education services or accommodations
- Checking the results of taking medication or the progress of the disease
Most importantly, these assessments guide people toward healing and growth, helping them achieve their best and live better lives.
How We Care Support Can Be Useful
We Care Support uses a caring and personalized method for every neuropsychological assessment in Orlando,FL. We have experience helping children, adolescents, adults and seniors with a variety of conditions. We realize that having clear answers and a plan that fits your situation is very important.
If you are worried about your child’s learning, have questions after a head injury or see memory changes in someone close to you, we are here to assist you.
Schedule Your Neuropsychological Assessment Today
Do not let not knowing everything stop you from moving forward. A neuropsychological assessment can help you understand your mental, emotional and cognitive health and guide you toward improvement. Contact We Care Support now to arrange your evaluation and begin your journey to more clarity and support.
You can call us, email or schedule an appointment through our website to begin. This is where your understanding begins.
