Neuropsychological Assessment
"The engineer's first problem in any design situation is to discover what the problem really is." --Author Unknown
Neuropsychological Assessment is used to discover what the problem really is, and to point toward ways to solve the problem.
We offer full service neruopsychological testing and assessment for all age groups.
Dr. Warren Jackson is Board Certified in Clinical Neuropsychology. He has recently relocated to the DFW area from the University of Alabama at Birmingham Medical Center where he was an Associate Professor and the Director of Psychological Services and Neuropsychological Testing.
He has worked with Brain Injury, Stroke, Dementia, Adult Attention Deficit, Rehabilitation Psychology, Addiction, and General Psychiatric populations for the previous 14 years. In general, Dr. Jackson works with individuals over the age of 16.
Dr. Beth Lusby is a Clinical Psychologist, emphasizing neuropsychology. She received post-doctoral training in child psychology and rehabilitation psychology. She has worked with learning disabilities, brain injury, gifted/talented, attention deficit disorders, and asperger's disorder for the previous 14 years. In general, Dr. Lusby conducts assessments for children up to age 16.
Why have neuropsychological testing?
Some people are referred to neuropsych testing while others choose to have the testing for themselves. Usually people want to know a specific answer to their question. Common questions are:
Do I have Attention Deficit problems? Can I overcome this?
Do I have a Learning Disability? What accomodations do I need?
Did I suffer brain damage from _________? (an accident, a trauma, drug use, etc.)
Why do I have memory loss? What does it mean for my future?
What is involved?
Neuropsychological testing usually involves test that measure intelligence, achievement, cognitive functioning, and sometimes motor functioning. Although each test offers its own special type of information, together the test battery gives a full picture of a person's functioning. The choice of tests used depends upon the question to be answered. Neuropsychological testing can be more beneficial than an MRI at determining brain functioning. In addition, it offers a wealth of information about every day cognitive functioning that can be useful in treatment planning.
Most testing begins in the morning hours with an interview and description of the tests. Whenever possible, testing will be completed in one day, but in some circumstances testing is best completed over two days. Breaks are taken as needed.
Both Dr. Jackson and Dr. Lusby conduct their own testing to ensure that they best understand and can interpret the data presented by the individual. The overall goal of testing is to obtain information that indicates present functioning and points toward aids and accomodations that will enhance future functioning.
How long does it take?
Testing is not screening. Screening takes minutes to complete while testing usually takes hours. While screening gives an idea of what is going on, testing is a thourough investigation to give as definitive answer as possible.
Depending upon the testing question, the process usually takes 4-8 hours on average.
What does it cost?
Testing cost is dependent upon which tests are needed to answer the question. We will be able to offer you an estimate prior to testing. Most services range from $900 - $1800.
When you contact the psychologist to schedule testing or ask questions, the doctor will be able to provide you with a more specific quote, given the nature of your needs.
What is "Board Certified in Clinical Neuropsychology" and why should I care?
Board Certification is the highest level of achievement in the field of Psychology. It is not required and, of course, many fantastic psychologists are not Board Certified. It does indicate, however that this individual has completed all necessary education and training and has demonstrated excellence in skill level worthy of this honor.
There are very few Board Certified Neuropsychologists in the Dallas/Fort Worth area. Dr. W. Jackson is proud to serve in Northeast Tarrant County. Additional information can be obtained from the ABPP-CN website.