There are a number of benefits from participating in a Neuropsychological Evaluation. Psychiatric disorders are not easily determined in a thirty or sixty minute session. Through the course of psychotherapy, sometimes relevant information is not discovered or addressed. Our evaluation process is designed to assess functioning in several areas while developing rapport. In the latter phase of the evaluation, semi-structured and structured interviews are conducted to elicit additional detail on subjective areas of concern. The rich data and interview information gleaned through our assessments enable us to pinpoint problematic or stressful areas which shed light on diagnostic issues.
Many of the patients we currently see have been struggling with Lyme Disease, Lyme Coinfections, or PANDAS/PANS. Cognitive, emotional, behavioral, and social difficulties associated with these diseases are considered when
gathering data and making diagnoses.
In addition, our evaluations aid clinicians and school personnel toward providing treatment and educational services, respectively. For example, diagnostic clarification helps psychotherapists and psychopharmacological
prescribers (psychiatrists, nurse practitioners) tailor their treatment strategies. Diagnostic clarification also helps educators to provide special services to students such as Individualized Education Plan (IEP) and 504
Accommodations. Clarifying diagnoses can help teens or adults with addiction and other psychiatric disorders by shedding light on emotional and relational issues underlying dysfunctional and addictive behaviors. In cases where
Lyme Disease, Coinfections, or PANDAS/PANS is suspected, referrals for medical evaluation and treatment are provided.
Often, diagnostic clarification provides relief to patients and their families. For example, for students and adults with severe social challenges, it is often a great relief when their issues with social skills or social
pragmatics are discussed and conceptualized within their diagnostic picture.
However, often it is helpful for me to discuss client information with a third party such as a teacher, primary care physician (PCP), pediatrician, or psychopharmacologist (prescriber). By law I cannot discuss client information without obtaining your written permission in advance. In the case where you would like me to contact a third party, you can sign an authorization form, by which you grant me permission to contact your pediatrician, psychotherapist, or teacher.
We are available to attend IEP meetings scheduled at least three weeks in advance. The fee is $200/hour, including travel time. We are able to help explain the student's diagnosis, challenges implicated with learning, and
recommendations for remedial services.