Neuropsychology is a specialized field that examines the intricate relationship between brain function and behavior. It focuses on how injuries, illnesses, or developmental conditions affecting the brain can impact memory, cognition, mood, and overall functioning. Neuropsychologists use scientific tools and assessments to understand how changes in brain health influence day-to-day life.
Symptoms that may call for a visit to a neuropsychologist include:
Clinical neuropsychology is a specialty profession focusing on brain functioning. A clinical neuropsychologist is a licensed psychologist with expertise in how behavior and skills are related to brain structures and systems. In clinical neuropsychology, brain function is evaluated by objectively testing memory and thinking skills.
Tanner Clinic neuropsychologists perform evaluations which are requested specifically to help your doctors and other professionals understand how the different areas and systems of the brain are working. Testing is usually recommended when there are symptoms or complaints involving memory or thinking. A very detailed assessment of abilities is done, and the pattern of strengths and weaknesses is used in important health care areas, such as diagnosis and treatment planning. The neuropsychologist may also provide treatment, such as cognitive rehabilitation, music therapy, vestibular therapy, and pre-concussion baseline testing.
If you’re wondering whether you or a loved one could benefit from seeing a neuropsychologist, our specialists at Tanner Clinic are here to help you through life’s changes and concerns. Consulting a neuropsychologist offers valuable insights into how your brain is working and how it may be affecting behavior, learning, or mood. Their expertise provides accurate diagnosis, effective treatment planning, and long-term cognitive support across the lifespan. Based on thorough testing and analysis, neuropsychologists provide individualized/personalized strategies to manage cognitive challenges, improve daily functioning, and enhance quality of life.
Understanding Cognitive Changes:
Diagnosis and Clarification
Neuropsychological assessments are often used to support or clarify diagnoses such as ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, traumatic brain injuries, and neurodegenerative diseases. These detailed evaluations guide physicians and other specialists in treatment planning.
Monitoring Brain Health Over Time:
For individuals with progressive neurological conditions, such as Parkinson’s or Alzheimer’s disease, neuropsychologists track changes in cognitive function to help monitor the effectiveness of treatment and adjust care as needed.
Support After Brain Injury:
Following a concussion, stroke, or brain surgery, neuropsychologists assess the impact of the injury and offer strategies for cognitive rehabilitation, helping individuals regain function and adapt to changes.
Mental Health and Brain Function:
Neuropsychologists also consider how emotional health interacts with cognitive performance. They assess whether mood disorders, anxiety, or stress are influencing memory or thinking patterns, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the person as a whole.
Educational and Occupational Planning:
Children, adolescents, and adults facing cognitive or developmental challenges can benefit from neuropsychological insights when planning for school accommodations, career guidance, or vocational support.
If you have any questions and don’t find the answers here, feel free to reach out to our department!
Questionnaires about mood, behavior, and symptoms (completed by you or a caregiver).
Begins with an interview to review your medical history and current concerns.
Testing is administered by a trained technician under the supervision of a neuropsychologist.
Questionnaires about mood, behavior, and symptoms (completed by you or a caregiver).
Begins with an interview to review your medical history and current concerns.
Testing is administered by a trained technician under the supervision of a neuropsychologist.
You may be referred for neuropsychological testing if your doctor notices:
