Colorado Springs is the largest city in terms of land area in the state of Colorado. It is the home of the Olympic Committee, the infamous United States Olympic Training Center, and the remarkable U.S. Air Force Academy.
The Olympic City ranked third in the U.S. News, and World Report ranked it the “Best Place to Live in America” for 2019. This feat is not surprising given the city has all the marvelous things an urban area can offer but without the high cost of living.
Apart from economic reasons, access to medical and mental health care is also one of the top benefits of living in The Springs. Statistics show that more than 80 percent of psychiatrists and mental health professionals in the state of Colorado practice their profession in Colorado Springs and Denver.
If you are in the process of meeting with one of these practicing psychologists to undergo neuropsychological testing Colorado Springs, here are things you should know about the process.
What is a Neuropsychological Testing?
Neuropsychological testing is a vital tool used to evaluate the level of brain functioning after a brain injury or medical illness. The process generally involves a review of your medical history, a one-on-one interview with you and a significant other, and the administration of different tests to measure critical skills and faculties in the following areas:
- General intelligence
- Learning and memory
- Language
- Problem-solving
- Planning
- Abstract thinking
- Visual and spatial perception
- Attention and focus
- Motor and sensory skills
- Academic skills
Apart from gauging your abilities in the different areas above, a neuropsychological evaluation also consists of mood assessment. The neuropsychologist will ask several questions to ascertain your current mood and feelings because your emotions impact the results of the other tests. Understanding your mood is also essential in the diagnosis and determining succeeding courses of action.
What Can You Expect on the Day of Testing?
A neuropsychological evaluation typically begins with an interview. You will meet with a psychologist who will ask questions about your medical history as well as your existing issues and concerns about recovery. If you are accompanied by a significant other, he or she will also be interviewed to explain further what you are going through. Answer truthfully since your responses will help the psychologist to understand your situation better.
Testing will start once the interview is over. During this process, you may be asked to answer questions, write, recall certain information, or even draw. The assessment takes about three hours to complete, but it can last much longer, depending on your speed.
What is a Neuropsychological Report?
The neuropsychological report is the output of the neuropsychological testing in Colorado Springs. Apart from the results of the tests, this report also includes information about the different tests given, critical facts about your personal and medical background, your present concerns, and the essential steps you need to take to get better.
Note that your neuropsychological report is confidential. Only you and relevant parties can read its content, but you can give written consent to release tshe information if you want to.
Can the Results of the Evaluation Be Used Against Me?
It is important to note that the results of this type of testing do not define who you are. It is merely a snapshot of your strengths and weaknesses at one point in your life. The recommendations in the report are for your safety and well-being; to help your recovery journey rather than deter it.
Neuropsychological testing in Colorado Springs administered by a licensed psychologist is necessary to determine if you have fully recovered from your injury. The results will also help identify what types of interventions or medication you may need to go back to your normal life successfully.