A neuropsychologist is a type of clinical psychologist who studies how various brain injuries, diseases or other neurological conditions impact thinking, mood and behavior. To do this, neuropsychologists use special tests to evaluate memory, language, learning, visual-spatial ability, attention, problem-solving, motor skills and mood. These tests can help identify strengths, weaknesses and deficits in your thinking skills.
Neuropsychologists then work with your health care team to help diagnose and treat any identified difficulties or changes in your thinking and behavior.
Neuropsychologists commonly work with patients with the following conditions:
- Traumatic brain injury, including concussion
- Neurodegenerative diseases and dementia
- Parkinson’s disease and other movement disorders
- Epilepsy and seizure disorders
- Brain tumors
- Stroke and cerebrovascular diseases
- Cancer
- Autoimmune diseases
- Toxic-metabolic syndromes
Neuropsychologists can also conduct pre- and post-surgical evaluations for people who might have brain surgery to help with seizures, movement disorders or other medical conditions.
Neuropsychologists typically have 10 or more years of higher education and training, including a two-year fellowship in neuropsychology. Neuropsychologists work in outpatient offices, medical settings and universities, providing clinical care to patients. Many also conduct research to help advance understanding of the field.
When Would I See a Neuropsychologist?
Your neurologist or another medical provider will likely refer you to a neuropsychologist if you have thinking or memory problems, or if you are experiencing changes in:
- Personality
- Coordination
- Perception
- Language
- Reasoning
- Organization
- Concentration
What Will Happen When I See a Neuropsychologist?
During the evaluation appointment(s):
- Your neuropsychologist will talk with you about your problems with thinking and mood. They may also talk with a family member or significant other to better understand what is happening, but only if you give permission.
- You will then participate in paper and pencil, verbal and/or computer tests, which may last for an hour or up to several hours, depending on the reason you are being seen.
Once your neuropsychologist reviews the data from the evaluation, you will discuss the results with your neuropsychologist. The results will help your neurologist or referring medical provider make a diagnosis, assist with treatment planning, and give recommendations to improve functioning and quality of life.
How Will My Neuropsychologist Help Me?
Some questions your neuropsychologist can help you answer include the following:
- Are changes in my thinking skills due to normal aging or an emerging neurodegenerative condition?
- Are changes in my thinking skills due to a neurological injury or disease or are they due to other factors, like sleep, pain, medications or mood symptoms?
- Are my cognitive changes due to emotional factors, disease or both?
- What impact will a change in thinking skills have on everyday functioning?
- How likely is it that I can return to work, school or driving?
- How well will I be able to function at home and in the community?
- Have my thinking skills become worse due to my progressive neurological condition?
Neuropsychology services are offered through UofL Health – Brain & Spine Institute and UofL Health – Frazier Rehabilitation Institute. Call 502-582-7484 to learn more.
