Adult Neuropsychology
The Neuropsychology Service of the Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University performs comprehensive neuropsychological evaluations of adult patients suspected of having cognitive impairment associated with neurological or medical conditions.
Common referrals include patients with:
- Dementia
- Epilepsy
- Brain trauma
- Other medical/neurologic conditions
- Stroke
- Cognitive impairment of unknown origin
Jump to: What We Do Patients Served Postdoctoral Training Contact
Contact Us
Adult Neuropsychology
FO-122
905 15th St
Augusta, GA 30901
706-721-3851
706-721-6950
What is a Neuropsychological Assessment?
A neuropsychological evaluation typically involves assessment that includes testing of cognitive and functions such as memory, attention, and problem solving abilities using a group of standardized tests that are sensitive to the effects of brain dysfunction.
PURPOSE OF NEUROPSYCHOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT
The goals of neuropsychological assessment may vary, and include:
- establishing a clinical diagnosis,
- measuring the degree to which brain impairment has affected an individual 's cognitive functioning
- determining the positive or adverse neuropsychological effects of various treatments
- helping to form treatment recommendations,
- documenting possible changes in cognitive function over time, or
- helping to form recommendations for accommodations for cognitive impairments in daily life
WHAT IS ASSESSED?
A typical comprehensive neuropsychological evaluation will involve assessment of the
following:
- General intellect
- Higher level executive functions (e.g., reasoning, sequencing, problem solving)
- Attention and concentration
- Learning and memory
- Language
- Visual-spatial and visual-perceptual skills
- Motor and sensory skills
- Emotional functions, mood, and personality
Some abilities may be measured in more detail than others, depending on individual needs and the referral question.
THE EVALUATION PROCESS
The assessment usually consists of an interview and testing.
Most patients will meet with some combination of the Neuropsychologist, the psychometrist, and/or the postdoctoral fellow. During the interview, information that is important for the neuropsychologist to consider will be reviewed. Patients will be asked about their symptoms, medical history, medications, and other important factors. Patients should make every effort to bring someone who knows them well to the appointment to provide collateral information.
Testing involves taking paper-and-pencil or computerized tests and answering questions. The time required depends upon the problem being assessed, but in general, several hours are needed to assess the many skills involved in processing information. Some tests will be easy while others will be more complex. The most important thing is that patients try to do their best on all tests.
People being evaluated should bring their eyeglasses or hearing aids if they use them.
Patients Served
The Neuropsychology Service currently evaluates the neuropsychological capabilities of adults (age 18-65), and older adults (over age 65).
HOW TO OBTAIN A NEUROPSYCHOLOGICAL EVALUATION
- Physician referrals for Neuropsychological Assessment are required.
- If you are a referring provider and wish to discuss the patient and your referral questions, please contact Kelly Stanek, PhD., Director of the Adult Neuropsychology Service in the Department of Neurology, at 706-721-3851. To discuss any other issues, please contact the Neuropsychology Service's Administrative Assistant at 706-721-3851.
Postdoctral Training
The Department of Neurology at the Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University offers a two-year postdoctoral training program in adult clinical neuropsychology which conforms to the Houston Conference Guidelines on Specialty Education & Training in Clinical Neuropsychology.
Contact
Feel free to contact me if you believe we can be of service to you.
Kelly Stanek, PhD
- Director, Adult Neuropsychology Service
- Department of Neurology
(706) 721-3851