What is a Neuropsychologist?

Have you been referred to a neuropsychologist? Whether your primary care provider has recommended a visit, or you personally believe you could benefit from a consultation with a neuropsychologist, this blog post will help you understand what we do and how we can help.

What is a Neuropsychologist

A neuropsychologist is an individual who studies the connection between our behavior and our brains. Traditionally, psychologists primarily focus on emotions for diagnosis and treatment.  On the other hand, Neuropsychologists specialize in cognitive processes and how they can be impeded by neurobehavioral disorders, brain disorders, and injuries.

Cognitive Processes

There are many methods that neuropsychologists use to help patients gain an accurate understanding of their cognitive abilities. Brain abnormalities cannot be detected with any specific standardized test, which is why we take a thorough approach to observing our clients. Neuropsychological assessments often include brain imaging, hands-on testing, computerized tests and school/ parental observations.

Neurobehavioral Disorders and Brain Disorders

During neuropsychological assessments, we are generally assessing clients for the presence of a variety of neurobehavioral disorders and brain disorders. For younger clients, such disorders can include ADHD, Autism, Asperger’s and Dyslexia.  For adults, we generally focus on memory disorders, traumatic brain injury, stroke, brain tumors and neurocognitive/ behavioral impairments resulting from physical illness.

Post Diagnostic Care

If a new diagnosis is provided after the diagnostic process, neuropsychologists are able to provide comprehensive treatment recommendations to ensure patients receive the care they need. In many cases, counseling and psychotherapy can help eliminate or reduce symptoms, allowing individuals to heal and increase wellbeing. For patients suffering from Alzheimer’s or Dementia symptoms, we can prescribe treatment that can slow or even reverse some symptoms. Critically, we can also show patients and their loved ones how to navigate life safely when symptoms present themselves.

Schedule Your Neuropsychological Assessment with Reflect Neuropsychology

Reflect Neuropsychology is a leading neuropsychology firm in Southern California, specializing in counseling, therapy and neuropsychological assessment of children, adolescents and adults. We also can address your medicolegal needs and provide expert witness testimony, legal examination of medical records as well as independent medical examinations for capacity assessments and more. As a highly specialized practice, we can focus on evidence-based, personally tailored treatment and evaluation. To learn more about our services and schedule an appointment, visit us online or call us at (818) 324-3800.