VivianAkerib, M.A.

Q: What is Neuropsychology?

A: Neuropsychology is a branch of clinical psychology that studies how the brain and nervous system affect how we function on a daily basis.

Q: What is a Neuropsychologist?

A: A clinical neuropsychologist is a licensed psychologist with expertise in how behavioral skills are related to brain functioning and structures. Brain function is evaluated using a cognitive assessment comprising objective testing of memory, thinking, attention, and other skills such as motor abilities and balance. This very detailed assessment of abilities is done, and the pattern of strengths and weaknesses is used in important health areas, such as diagnosis and treatment planning. The clinical neuropsychologist conducts the evaluation and makes recommendations and referrals to other professionals for treatment. Treatment may also be provided through cognitive rehabilitation, behavior management, or psychotherapy. (source: Clinical Neuropsychology: A Guide for Patients and Their Families What is Clinical Neuropsychology? written by the Public Interest Advisory Committee, Division 40 American Psychological Association.

Clinical Neuropsychologists use their knowledge of brain-behavior relationships in the assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and/or rehabilitation of patients across the lifespan (children to aging adults) with neurological, medical, neurodevelopmental and psychiatric conditions, as well as other cognitive and learning disorders, (including ADD/ ADHD; Learning Disabilities, Autism). In Traumatic Brain Injury, or neurological degeneration or conditions (ex: Alzheimer’s, Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson’s, Epilepsy), with a goal of determining the nature and extent of damage, and the impact upon intellectual and personality functions, the neuropsychologist works to pinpoint the cognitive alterations and lead the individual and his/her family to a better understanding of how every day performance has changed.

Q: When do I need to see a neuropsychologist?

A: If you or your child are experiencing difficulties in learning, attention and concentration, thinking, memory, speech, social interaction, personality, or other behaviors that interfere with your normal everyday functioning.

Q: My child needs a psycho-educational assessment. Why see a Neuropsychologist for this?

A: Neuropsychological testing tends to be more comprehensive than that provided by a school psychologist. Both assessments may include a sampling of academic achievement skills and/or cognitive abilities but a neuropsychological battery will also go beyond that to evaluate verbal and non-verbal memory, one’s ability to organize and execute tasks, attention, problem-solving and planning skills,as well as the balance and motor system. Neuropsychological evaluations can be lengthy and are often done in several sessions