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Procedures In Neuropsychological Assessment New York Psychologists Follow

By Essie Osborn


Doctors may sometimes recommend a neuropsychological assessment to a patient in order to determine how his/her brain is functioning. This is in relation to some functions of the brain especially when it comes to things like; reasoning, attention span, memory, planning, language and speech skills or organizing skills among others. A picture of the brain will be taken from which its functioning can be determined. With a neuropsychological assessment New York doctors can help individuals improve their brain functioning.

There are a number of mental tasks that one is normally asked to undertake. These are sometimes referred to as cognitive tests. Basically, what is used is a simple computer program or in some cases a pencil and paper. Instructions are then given on how one is supposed to do the tasks presented. One example of such tasks is when the individual is asked to try and remember a given list of words which have been read out.

Simple tasks are the ones which will be given first as they progress to more difficult ones. This is done until it reaches a point where one cannot continue. From here now the doctor is able to gauge the mental functioning of the individual.

It is an obvious fact that individuals may in most cases not bring out their best the first time they do something. This is something that doctors give consideration while doing their evaluation. They will therefore give their patients varied tests while in the real sense measuring the same thing. This helps them to get pictures which are more precise and can be relied on.

One should not be discouraged with the lengthy process of the program. There are times when it can take around three to four hours. This, however, makes things much easier when it comes to making a conclusion because the doctor can compare various results. From the results he/she will be able to conclude on your reasoning, remembering, concentration and problem solving abilities.

These tests are in most cases administered by specialized psychologists. They need to have undergone some special training on how to do the tests before practicing it. This, therefore, means that you need to determine the qualifications of your psychologist before enrolling for his program.

The doctor may advise on whether a treatment program should be taken or a rehabilitation program depending with the results of the assessment. However, before even the assessment is done, the doctor will check on some conditions which make the evaluation necessary. For example, there are diseases which can make the brain to suffer some damages. These include diseases like; Stroke, Alzheimer, AIDS, Epilepsy, Multiple Sclerosis, Brain Tumor and Parkinson disease.

There are also other cases which can lead to the need for neuropsychological assessment. These include situations such as serious injuries to the brain. Things like alcohol and drug abuse, exposure to poisons, pollution or chemicals can lead to the need of the assessment. This is because these conditions can affect the functioning of the brain.




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