Find a Neuropsychologist

A neuropsychologist is a doctoral-level psychologist who uses standardized testing, behavioral observation, and clinical interview to understand how brain structure and function affect cognition, emotions, and daily life. Whether you are managing a concussion, wondering why your child struggles at school, or facing cognitive changes later in life, a neuropsychological evaluation can pinpoint strengths and weaknesses, clarify diagnoses, and guide practical treatment plans.

A neuropsychological evaluation is a comprehensive assessment that measures various aspects of cognitive functioning. This includes tests for memory, attention, problem-solving, language skills, and emotional functioning. The evaluation helps in diagnosing conditions, planning treatments, and monitoring progress over time.

Results are compared with age-, sex-, and education-matched norms. The clinical neuropsychologist integrates scores with medical records and brain imaging to answer practical questions such as:

• “Does this memory loss fit early Alzheimer’s disease or normal aging?”
• “After a mild traumatic brain injury, when is it safe to return to work or sport?”
• “Which classroom accommodations will help my child with ADHD?”

Medicare and most commercial insurers pay for neuropsychological testing under CPT codes 96116, 96121, 96136–96139 after medical necessity is established. Pre-authorization rules vary—always confirm beforehand.

Common reasons for referral include:

• Memory problems or dementia
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Learning disabilities
• Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
• Stroke or other neurological conditions

Adult & Lifespan Clinical Neuropsychology

Typical referrals include stroke, epilepsy surgery work-ups, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s, long-COVID cognitive fog, and mood or psychotic disorders with suspected cognitive decline. Evaluations inform medication choices, vocational rehab, disability determinations, and driving safety.

Pediatric Neuropsychologist

Children’s brains develop rapidly; therefore tests and norms must be age-sensitive. A pediatric neuropsychologist addresses learning disabilities, autism spectrum disorder, genetic syndromes, prenatal exposures, chemotherapy effects, and concussions. Reports translate findings into IEP/504 recommendations and coach caregivers on behavior strategies.

Forensic Neuropsychologist

When cognitive status may influence legal outcomes—capacity to stand trial, personal-injury damages, testamentary competence—a forensic neuropsychologist provides impartial expert testimony. Courts scrutinize methodology, so practitioners follow specialty guidelines on validity testing and data security.

Most adults receive feedback in one session; pediatric feedback often splits into parent-only and family sessions to tailor recommendations.

Bottom line:

• Choose a licensed psychologist when you want psychotherapy to address emotions, behaviors, habits, or relationships.
• Choose a clinical or pediatric neuropsychologist when the core question is “How is my (or my child’s) brain functioning, and what does that mean for school, work, or daily life?”—especially after injury, illness, or unexplained cognitive changes.

• A neuropsychologist blends psychology and neuroscience to translate test data into actionable strategies for health, education, and legal decisions.

• Services range from routine concussion screens to complex forensic testimony; choosing the right subspecialist—clinical, pediatric, or forensic—is essential.

• State law, PSYPACT membership, and telehealth rules shape access. Verify license and board certification when you find a neuropsychologist.

• A thorough neuropsychological evaluation clarifies diagnosis, measures change over time, and guides treatment—all while being covered by Medicare and most insurers when medically necessary.