Frequently Asked Questions
Neuropsychology is concerned with brain-behavior relationships. Clinical neuropsychological assessment can provide a range of information to referring physicians, and also add a valuable piece of information in conceptualizing complex symptom presentations. Neuropsychological testing is becoming an increasingly common component of the diagnostic workup for patients with known or suspected neurological conditions.
A neuropsychological evaluation is designed to objectively assess an individual’s cognitive and psychological functioning. This is accomplished using a variety of interactive tests- the majority of which have been rigorously researched and standardized- that assess different types of cognitive functions such as: attention, memory, visual-spatial perception, processing speed, language skills, academic functioning, problem-solving, judgment, flexible thinking, and adaptive functioning.
In addition, testing also includes screening for different psychiatric and behavioral factors, with particular attention to how these can impact thinking and also with an eye toward providing a comprehensive whole-person diagnosis and recommendations. There is also a lot of useful information in this brochure about the neuropsychological evaluation process: Neuropsychological Evaluation Guide for Patients and Family
Common reasons for referral include concerns about: dementia (e.g. Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia, Lewy Body dementia, frontotemporal dementia), Parkinson’s disease, cerebrovascular accidents, tumors, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, traumatic brain injury (TBI), concussions, ADHD, learning disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, and psychiatric conditions, among others.
- Are these changes in mood, behavior, and cognitive functioning related to an acute or progressive neurological condition?
- If the test findings do not suggest a neurological cause, what else might be contributing to their symptoms?
- What diagnosis (or diagnoses) best account for this individual’s symptom presentation?
- What medication or behavioral interventions would be most effective in treating this individual’s symptoms?
- Are there safety concerns regarding this individual’s ability to drive or manage independent daily living tasks?
- Would this individual benefit from accommodations at school or work in light of underlying cognitive or mood conditions?
- What is this individual’s baseline cognitive functioning (either pre-surgically or post-injury)?
- Has there been a decline, improvement, or no change in symptoms over time (based on reevaluation)?
Yes, I am an in-network provider with many major insurance companies, including Medicare, Aetna, Highmark BCBS, IBC, and Optum. My network participation is frequently expanding, so please call (484) 442-01041 for more information regarding your insurance, and to verify benefits.
I am also happy to complete paperwork for out-of-network reimbursement as necessary.
Monday through Friday from 9am-5pm.
Weekend appointments possible.
I understand how important it can be to have your evaluation and get results as soon as possible after receiving a referral from your doctor. That’s why I strive to book appointments with as minimal a wait as possible, feedback sessions are typically scheduled within one week, and I aim for rapid report turnaround to referring physicians, while also still maintaining the utmost quality in my work.
Prior to our appointment, you are welcome to complete the intake forms found here, or you are welcome to complete them in the office prior to us meeting. It is also helpful if you have your doctor fax a referral note to my office (610-595-9724) with records from your last office visit and any relevant medical, psychological, and/or cognitive test results previously completed- these items help me to understand why you are being referred for testing, and how I can best answer your doctor’s questions.
Other things to bring on the day of testing: Paperwork, insurance card, water, snack or lunch items, reading glasses, hearing aids, and medication if needed. You are welcome to bring a family member with you to participate in the interview, as it can be very helpful for me to get different perspectives about your symptoms when formulating my clinical impressions.