About Evaluations
What is a neuropsychological evaluation?
A neuropsychological evaluation is a detailed assessment of thinking skills such as memory, attention, language, problem-solving, and related abilities, using standardized tests. It answers questions that brain scans and brief screenings cannot, such as whether memory changes reflect normal aging or something more, or whether attention difficulties reflect ADHD, anxiety, or both. Your evaluation includes an interview, testing, and a feedback session where results are explained in plain language, along with a written report.
Who do you evaluate?
Dr. Clark evaluates adults, older adults, teens, and children ages 6 and up. Common reasons for referral include memory and cognitive concerns, cognitive changes following an injury or illness, ADHD, autism, and learning difficulties. We also conduct capacity and forensic evaluations. We do not provide therapy or crisis services.
What happens during an evaluation?
Most evaluations begin with an interview, often by secure video, where Dr. Clark discusses your current concerns and your medical, psychological, educational, and social history. With your permission, it is often helpful to gather information from someone who knows you well, such as a family member, partner, or teacher, since their perspective adds important context.
Testing is then tailored to your specific questions and is usually scheduled for a separate visit, which keeps you fresh and the testing focused. Some focused adult evaluations can be completed in a single same-day visit. Testing may involve oral questions, paper-and-pencil tasks, computer-based tasks, and hands-on materials, and may assess attention, memory, language, academic skills, reasoning and problem-solving, visuospatial ability, sensory-motor skills, mood, and personality, depending on your referral question.
Testing is then tailored to your specific questions and is usually scheduled for a separate visit, which keeps you fresh and the testing focused. Some focused adult evaluations can be completed in a single same-day visit. Testing may involve oral questions, paper-and-pencil tasks, computer-based tasks, and hands-on materials, and may assess attention, memory, language, academic skills, reasoning and problem-solving, visuospatial ability, sensory-motor skills, mood, and personality, depending on your referral question.
Will my evaluation be one visit or two?
It depends on the evaluation. Most work best as two visits: a shorter interview first, then a separate testing appointment. Certain focused adult evaluations can be completed in one same-day visit. You do not need to know which format you need before you book. You book one interview to start, and Dr. Clark determines the right evaluation and format from there and tells you what to expect.
How should I prepare?
Get a normal night's sleep, take your usual medications unless told otherwise, and bring your glasses or hearing aids, a list of your medications, and any prior evaluations, medical records, or school records. Eat normally and bring a snack. Avoid alcohol for 24 hours before testing. If you are ill on your testing day, please call to reschedule, since being unwell can affect your results. For a video interview, you will need a private space and a reliable internet connection.
When and how do I get my results?
After testing, Dr. Clark prepares a detailed report with findings, any diagnoses, and specific recommendations, typically within 2-4 weeks. She then meets with you for a feedback session, in person, by video, or by phone, to review the results in plain language and answer your questions. You receive a copy of your report.
Neuropsychological evaluations are crucial for students who are struggling academically and may require learning accommodations. This can be especially important for ACT/SAT accommodations, which must be completed before age 16 to qualify for extended time and other considerations. Such testing can form the basis for college accommodations and other intervention recommendations.
Telehealth & Location
Do you offer telehealth?
Yes. Dr. Clark is licensed in Texas for both in-person and online appointments. She also holds Authority to Practice Interjurisdictional Telepsychology (APIT) through PSYPACT, an interstate compact that allows licensed psychologists to provide telehealth services across participating states.
Which states does PSYPACT cover?
PSYPACT participating states include: Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, North Carolina, North Dakota, Northern Marianas, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. PSYPACT participation changes over time, so please contact us to confirm your state.
Other Common Questions
Do I need a referral?
Most patients are referred by a physician, but self-referrals are welcome. If your insurance requires a referral for coverage, we can help you request one.
Can an evaluation help with school or testing accommodations?
Yes. Neuropsychological evaluations can document the basis for academic accommodations, including extended time and other supports at school, in college, and on standardized tests. Requirements and timelines vary by school and testing organization, so if accommodations are your goal, tell us when you contact us and we will make sure your evaluation is designed to meet those requirements.
Are evaluations used in legal matters?
Yes. Neuropsychological evaluations are often relevant in legal matters involving a person's capacity to manage finances, make changes to a will, or in personal injury cases and similar situations. Forensic and legal evaluations are arranged directly with our office under a written fee agreement rather than booked online. See our Forensic Evaluations page or call us to discuss.
Have More Questions?
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We are here to help with any questions or doubts you may have.
Call 254.262.6743, email us at [email protected], or fill out our contact form here. Look forward to assisting you! |