THE EVALUATION PROCESS

During the initial portion of the evaluation, you and a trusted family member or friend will engage in a comprehensive clinical interview with Dr. Sikora. This serves as a crucial foundation for understanding your cognitive and emotional well-being. You will be able to describe your memory concerns, medical history, psychological symptoms, and background. 

The second part of the Neuropsychological Evaluation, immediately following the clinical interview, is dedicated to the comprehensive testing process. This portion involves a battery of standardized neuropsychological tests. These tests are specifically chosen to evaluate a spectrum of cognitive functions, such as memory, attention, visuospatial skills, receptive and expressive language, cognitive processing speed, fine motor skills, intellectual functioning, and executive functioning. Emotional functioning is also assessed during the neuropsychological assessment. Psychological tests may be administered as a part of this evaluation. The duration of the testing process varies, depending on the complexity of questions being addressed.

In the final phase of the Neuropsychological Evaluation, occurring approximately 2-3 weeks following your testing process, Dr. Sikora will guide you through a personalized feedback session. You will receive the results of your neuropsychological testing as well as treatment recommendations. You will be able to ask any questions that you may have. Following your feedback session, you will follow-up with your referring physician to implement a treatment plan.

Throughout the Neuropsychological Evaluation process, you may interact with a number of healthcare clinical staff, all who work collaboratively under the supervision of Dr. Sikora. The clinical staff comprises of individuals with varying levels of expertise, including psychometrists, graduate school students, postdoctoral fellows, or master's level clinicians.

• Compile a list of your concerns

• Organize your medical history and bring a list of your medications

• Review your mental health history 

• Involve a trusted family member or friend 

• Get a good night's sleep the night before your appointment and eat a healthy, nutritious breakfast/lunch

• Prepare snacks and drinks to bring to your appointment

• Bring glasses or hearing aides if you use them

• Bring a light jacket or sweater in case you feel cold

• Bring your photo ID and insurance card(s)

• Arrive early to complete new patient paperwork

• You do not need to stop any of your medications

• Refrain from using any recreational substances 24 hours prior to your evaluation

• Be open and honest during the evaluation

• Ask questions