FAQ

How is a neuropsychologist different from a neurologist?

A neuropsychologist is a licensed, clinical psychologist who has extensive, specialized training in neuroanatomy, neuropathology, and evaluation in order to in order to assess how brain systems affect learning, behavior, and development. A neuropsychologist has an advanced degree in psychology, known as a Ph.D. (Doctorate of Philosophy) or Psy.D. (Doctorate of Psychology). A neuropsychologist usually works with therapists, psychiatrists, neurologists, neurosurgeons, physiatrists and other medical specialists as a team to coordinate a patient’s care.

Is there really such a thing as adult ADHD?

Without a doubt. Adults who have never been diagnosed properly for their ADHD symptoms have lived for years wondering why they frequently seem to “miss the mark,” to play “catch up” almost daily, or to have a nagging sense that they are not living up to their potential. Many people think that ADHD is a “child’s disorder,” so it’s not until a child is diagnosed with ADHD that the parent realizes personal symptoms of ADHD as well. They find that they have used compensation strategies their entire life which partly masked their symptoms. Others suffered silently by continually encouraging themselves to “try harder.”  Research reveals that ADHD is genetically inherited in about 80% of cases, so when one family member is diagnosed, you may want to look for symptoms of ADHD in other family members.

What are some symptoms of ADHD in adults?

The questions below outline some of the components of the three core symptoms of ADHD: inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity. Even people who do not have ADHD can occasionally demonstrate inattention, hyperactivity or impulsivity, but people with ADHD will demonstrate more of these behaviors, consistently, over time.

• Do you find that you frequently “wander off” mentally, especially during meetings, lectures, or conversations?
• Are you frequently distracted by irrelevant sights or sounds?
• Do you find yourself missing details or making careless mistakes?
• Do you have difficulty following instructions?
• Do you find yourself losing or forgetting things often?
• Are you always moving your hands or feet while in your chair?
• Do you tap your pencil or your feet?
• Do you regularly play with your hair or clothing?
• Do you consciously resist fidgeting or squirming?
• Is it difficult to sit through a movie or lecture?
• Do you often take action before you consider the possible consequences?
• In conversation, do you interrupt others? Do you blurt out inappropriate comments?
• Do you experience difficulty waiting in line or for your turn?

A bump on the head is not serious unless the person loses consciousness…right?

Although losing consciousness is a common symptom of a concussion, it’s very possible to suffer a concussion without losing consciousness. A concussion occurs when there is a physical blow to the body or head causing an injury to your brain.

The brain floats within the skull surrounded by fluid, which cushions it and prevents it from bumping into our hard skulls with every movement of the head. But the fluid may not be able to absorb the force of a sudden blow or a quick stop.  In these situations the brain may slide forcefully against the inner wall of the skull.  More serious injuries to the brain include bruising and swelling of the brain (contusion), a broken skull bone (skull fracture), and blood that collects in or around the brain (hematoma).

Every concussion should be taken seriously.  Although not usually life-threatening, concussions can have serious effects.  Most people with mild injuries recover fully, but the healing process takes time.

Do you accept insurance?
We  accept Medicaid, Medicare, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, Magellan, United Healthcare (including Optum and UMR), and Humana. We also provide no-interest payment plans for up to 3 months, if we are not in network with your insurance plan. You may also file for out-of-network reimbursement, if you have such coverage as part of your insurance plan. We have seen reimbursement for out-of-network range from 0% to 70% depending on the insurance carrier. Sometimes insurance carriers require a referral. Contact our office and we will be happy to assist you.

What Do I Tell My Child About The Evaluation?
What you tell your child about this evaluation depends on how much he or she can understand. Be simple and brief and relate your explanation to a problem that your child knows about such as “trouble with spelling,” “problems following directions,” or “feeling upset.” Reassure a worried child that testing involves no “shots.” Tell your child that you are trying to understand his or her problem to make things better. You may also tell the child that “nobody gets every question right,” and that the important thing is to “try your best.” Your child will probably find the neuropsychological evaluation interesting. We’d love to help you explain this evaluation to your child in a simple way so please feel free to print out a handout specifically designed to help you explain the evaluation to your child.
Click here for “Why am I going to see a neuropsychologist?”