About Neuropsychology

Neuropsychology is a specialized practice of psychology and involves the study of the relationship between the brain and behavior. Neuropsychologists have a doctorate in psychology and training in neuropsychology. The goal is to understand how the individual functions as a whole, determine what is getting in the way of optimal functioning, and identify appropriate treatment and/or support strategies.

What's the Difference?

A psychological assessment typically includes tests and observations of intellectual and emotional functioning.

A psychoeducational assessment typically includes tests and observations of intellectual and academic functioning.

A neuropsychological assessment goes further. In addition to assessing intellectual functioning, academic functioning, and social/emotional/behavioral adjustment, a neuropsychological evaluation will include assessment of some or all of the following areas as relevant:

auditory processing
visual processing
memory and learning
processing and retrieval speed
receptive and expressive language
phonological processing
orthographic functioning
attentional functioning
executive functioning
fine and/or gross motor skills

Note that while some neuropsychologists will do assessments related to stroke, degenerative brain disease, and other traumatic brain injuries, I do not do these sorts of evaluations.