Neuropsychology identifies the thinking and behavioral changes due to brain damage (for e.g., concussion, traumatic brain injury, strokes, tumors and dementia.)
This is done by administering a neuropsychological examination (NPE) that provides a representation of one’s thinking abilities in addition to serving as a blue print for treatment in the rehabilitation process.
The NPE also promotes the understanding of a patient’s strengths and limitations. Various imaging techniques (MRI, CAT) provide useful structural information but are unable to communicate functional capacity and processes, i.e. memory, attention, concentration and problem solving abilities of the our brains.
Neuropsychology, in the rehabilitation setting, further defines a patient’s decisional-making capacity, thereby assessing the risk exposure after discharge.
In summary, Neuropsychology in the rehabilitation setting provides:
a) Description of the thinking and behavior problems due to different forms of brain damage, thereby
requiring different treatment approaches, management disposition, and legal responsibility.
b) Quantifying improvement in the treatment via the NPE.
c) Risk Assessment upon discharge.
d) Identifying the variety of behavior problems resulting from brain damage routinely missed
(up to 50% of patients).
e) Continuity of care from in-patient to out-patient to mainstreaming.
Neuropsychological Goals:
a) Define cognitive strengths and weaknesses as a result of brain injury.
b) Predict the extent to which cognition will influence the potential for recovery and improvement.
c) Determine management implications and risk assessment due to the patient’s cognitive profile.
d) Provide treatment directed specifically toward improving areas of neuropsychological deficits.
e) Our practice uses a complete, comprehensive neuropsychological test battery. To receive more
information regarding your specific and unique concerns call to schedule an appointment or speak
with one of our doctors to determine if and how we can be of service.
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