Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is clinical neuropsychology?
Clinical neuropsychology is a specialty profession that focuses on brain functioning and behavior.
2. What is a clinical neuropsychologist?
A clinical neuropsychologist is a licensed psychologist with expertise in how behavior and skills are related to brain structures and systems. Typically, this professional has a doctorate degree in psychology, with additional training and expertise in the area of neuropsychology. This clearest indicator of advanced competence in neuropsychology is board certification.
3. What does a neuropsychological evaluation involve?
First, there is a clinical interview. This can take an hour to and hour and a half, or longer depending on the complexity of the presenting difficulties. Second, formal testing would occur. This testing is objective, and is designed to help understand major areas of thinking and behavior, such as attention/concentration, high level problem solving skills, language skills, perceptual skills, memory skills, sensation/ perception, and motor skills.
Usually, the person being examined is asked to complete a set of questionnaires about their presenting problems and relevant background. They may also complete questionnaires designed to help me know more about their emotional or psychological conditions, or behavior. If the person being examined is a child, the child’s parents or caregivers may complete these questionnaires, in addition to other individuals (teachers, for example).
4. How much does this testing or evaluation cost?
Usually, a complete evaluation costs between $1500.00 and $2500.00 – sometimes more, sometimes less, depending on how much time is required to do all aspects of the testing or evaluation. This cost would include the initial interview, review of records, actual testing, scoring/interpretation of test information, report preparation, and a feedback session.
For a child or adolescent, there may be an additional cost to do school observations or attend meetings on behalf of the child/adolescent (for example, and IEP).
5. Will insurance cover any part of this?
That depends. I am not a provider on any insurance panel. You may wish to call your insurance company, and let them know that you have been referred for this evaluation. If you have been referred to me specifically, let the insurance company know this. They may tell you that they have other neuropsychologists on their provider panel. If this is so, you may need to contact these other professionals to determine their availability to test/evaluate.
If the insurance company cannot meet the request for a neuropsychologist on their panel of providers, you may be able to request that I do this evaluation, and that the insurance company negotiate with my office, regarding any fees.
Other parties may refer you for this evaluation. Sometimes, these other parties agree to absorb all costs for this evaluation or testing. This may be a school district, and attorney, etc.
6. How long does it take to complete an evaluation?
Usually, 10 days. More or less time, depending on the complexity of the examination.
7. How long does it take to schedule an appointment?
Usually, 3 to 4 weeks. Exceptions can be made on a case-by-case basis.
8. How do I get started?
Call the clinic and leave a message for me or my office manager, Ms. Barbara Forney. Call 949-837-3358. You can also email me: dlechuga@neuroclinic.com.
9. What do you recommend I bring to the first appointment?
Any relevant records would be very helpful.
10. What if my attorney referred me?
Your attorney should contact me directly. Arrangements can then be made for an appointment and evaluation through your attorney’s office.