Overview
Neuropsychology focuses on how different parts of the brain affect thinking, emotions, and behavior. A neuropsychological evaluation helps explain changes in memory, learning, attention, problem-solving, or mood.
Our licensed clinical neuropsychologists evaluate children, adults, and older adults using evidence-based tools to identify cognitive strengths and challenges. Results help clarify causes of change and guide treatment, therapy, or support recommendations.
Evaluations are helpful for individuals experiencing memory loss, attention or learning problems, mood or behavior changes, or cognitive changes after illness or injury.
Benefits of a Neuropsychological Evaluation
- Identify patterns of strengths and weaknesses
- Clarify causes of cognitive or behavioral changes
- Support accurate diagnosis and treatment planning
- Track changes over time
- Guide strategies for success at home, school, or work
When a Neuropsychological Evaluation May Be Helpful
A neuropsychological evaluation can provide clarity when someone is experiencing:
- Noticeable changes in thinking, memory, or attention
- Difficulty learning new information or completing familiar tasks
- Changes in mood, behavior, or decision-making
- Language or communication difficulties
- Increased trouble managing daily activities or responsibilities
These evaluations help determine whether changes may be related to medical, neurological, developmental, or emotional causes and identify ways to best support the individual’s needs.
When a Different Evaluation May Be More Appropriate
Some concerns are better addressed by other types of evaluations:
- Emotional or psychiatric concerns (such as depression or anxiety without cognitive changes) are best evaluated through mental health services.
- Academic or learning concerns without broader cognitive symptoms are best assessed through an educational evaluation. These are typically self-pay and not covered by insurance.
- Requests made solely for legal or disability purposes are not part of our clinical services.
What to Expect
- Clinical Interview – Discussion with the patient and/or family to review history, symptoms, and current concerns (1–2 hours).
- Evaluation Appointment – Paper-and-pencil and/or computerized measures of cognitive and emotional functioning (usually 3–6 hours, depending on referral reason).
- Feedback Session – A meeting (in person or via telehealth) to review of results and recommendations with the individual and/or family. A written report is provided to the referring provider.
Psychological vs. Neuropsychological Evaluations
While both evaluations can help identify factors affecting emotional and cognitive health, they focus on different areas:
- Psychological evaluations assess emotional, behavioral, and personality functioning to understand mental health concerns and guide therapy or treatment planning.
- Neuropsychological evaluations assess brain-based thinking skills such as memory, attention, language, and problem-solving to understand how neurological or medical conditions may be affecting cognition and daily functioning.
Our team can help determine which evaluation best meets your needs based on your concerns or your provider’s referral.
Getting Started
A referral from a prescribing provider is required for neuropsychological evaluation services. Completed referrals can be faxed to 860-748-4432.
For more information or to get started with our Neuropsychological Evaluation services, please contact us at 860-270-0600 x100 or clinicalservices@escrec.org.
