FAQS

We address symptoms and concerns from neuropsychological perspective, taking the whole person into account. Testing will include screening of several brain-based, behavioral, and emotional aspects with testing uniquely designed to understand your life. This is not a “set battery” and what tests are used may be adapted during the process to ensure we understand all of the relevant dynamics.

Read What is a Neuropsychological Assessment? to learn more.

You will be at BRAINS for 1-4 hours to complete the actual testing. Much of this is in small activities — each lasting only 5-15 minutes. There is no “brain scan” or medically invasive procedure.

Avoid the word “games” — this implies a winner and loser. Also, don’t tell the child they are here “for testing” or “to play.” Rather, we need to convey the importance of doing their best and let them know the brain activities will help us understand how the child’s brain works best. We try to make the process fun, but some activities may be challenging.

We often take short breaks during testing. Bathroom, water, and snack breaks are offered as needed. Breaks are customized for each client.

BRAINS usually keeps fruit snacks and granola bars on hand. If you prefer, bring alternative snacks to have available. It is always alright to bring a water bottle or other drink; please avoid caffeinated beverages unless you’ve cleared it with your psychologist. Let the psychologist know if there are any allergies or health concerns we should know about.

Discuss this with the psychologist prior to the day of testing. There are some circumstances where it is alright to stop taking a medication in order to obtain “baseline/unmedicated” scores. However, most of the time we need to measure the effectiveness of the medication already prescribed, so we typically don’t change the normal routine. Just inform the psychologist on the day of testing.

Everyone’s circumstances are unique. Unless there are some anxiety, behavioral, or communication challenges where parents need to be present to assist, it is often ok for parents to leave during testing. Just leave a cell-phone number with the psychologist so we can reach you if needed. Please be back at the time you are asked to pick up your child.

Usually, we request to have the child perform independently. Seeing how they “perform in the moment” is often part of the evaluation process. However, if you have concerns about your child’s anxiety, discuss this with your psychologist. If you are asked to stay, discuss how much prompting is allowed and try not to “coach” the child.

Based on the insurance information you provide, our support staff will provide you a written estimate at the time of your first appointment. Any payments are due at the time of service, so please be prepared to pay any co-pays/deductibles/co-insurance payments on the day of testing. Our office will do our best to work with your insurance company to secure the necessary authorizations.

After the testing day, the psychologist may take up to 2-3 weeks to complete the final report. Billing to insurance is not done until the entire process is complete (date of feedback). You may anticipate receiving a statement in the mail after your insurance company has processed your claims. Statements are also available on the Patient Portal. Any additional payments can be done via mail, Patient Portal, in person, or by calling our office.

ROI

Be sure to complete a Release of Information (ROI) form if you want BRAINS to gather any records from school(s), other therapists, etc. AND/OR to allow us to send the final report to any other provider working with you. We do not send the report without your permission. We prefer to discuss the results with you during a formal feedback session prior to sending out copies of the report to anyone.

Patient Portal

Please ask support staff to create a Patient Portal for you. This is a secure method of communication and we can send you an electronic copy of the report for your records. You may also pay any bills online conveniently and securely, view upcoming appointments, and complete paperwork.

Questionnaires

Depending on the referral questions, clients may be asked to complete specific questionnaires. These are an important part of the assessment process. Please complete them and be sure they get back to our office by the date of testing.

Scheduling

Write down your appointments for testing and feedback in your calendar(s). Appointments that are missed or canceled with less than 24-hour notice will be charged a $50 fee per hour of missed service. View your upcoming appointments in your Patient Portal.