Neuropsychological testing is one of the most powerful tools for understanding changes in memory, behavior, and cognitive functioning. Patients across Ann Arbor, Novi, and Southeast Michigan often ask what exactly is included in a full neuropsychological evaluation — and what makes one clinic more reliable or effective than another.
Below is a clear, SEO-optimized breakdown of the standard services provided by top neuropsychological clinics in Michigan, including the approach used by Neuropsychology Partners.
1. Comprehensive Clinical Interview
A proper neuropsychological assessment always begins with a detailed clinical interview. This helps the doctor understand:
- Cognitive or memory concerns
- Medical and neurological history
- Past concussions or traumatic brain injuries
- Sleep and mood patterns
- Daily functioning and behavioral changes
- Medication and developmental history
This step ensures the evaluation is tailored to the patient’s unique needs.
2. Cognitive Testing (Core Component)
This is the heart of every neuropsychological assessment. Clinics typically use research-validated tests that measure the following:
🧠 Memory (Immediate, delayed, verbal, visual)
Detects early cognitive decline, Alzheimer’s disease, or memory impairment.
(Mayo Clinic reference: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/alzheimers-disease/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20350453)
Attention & Concentration
Critical for diagnosing ADHD, post-concussion symptoms, and executive functioning deficits.
Executive Functioning
Planning
Organization
Decision-making
Problem-solving
Language & Communication Skills
Naming
Word retrieval
Comprehension
Verbal fluency
Processing Speed
Often affected by TBI, stroke, aging, or neurological conditions.
Visuospatial Skills
Important for driving, navigation, and independent living.
These results create a “cognitive map” of how the brain is functioning.
3. Psychological & Emotional Testing
Because mood can directly affect cognitive performance, clinics typically include measures for:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Trauma-related symptoms
- Behavioral concerns
- Emotional regulation
This helps differentiate cognitive decline from mood-related issues.
4. Functional & Behavioral Assessments
These tools measure the real-world impact of cognitive changes on:
- Work or school performance
- Driving safety
- Daily living skills
- Social interactions
- Memory-based tasks
- Communication
For children, it may include teacher checklists and developmental evaluations.
5. Specialty Testing (When Needed)
Depending on the symptoms or referral question, providers may include targeted assessments for:
✔ Concussion & Post-TBI Testing
Used to evaluate recovery and recommend return-to-play/work plans.
✔ Dementia & Alzheimer’s Screening
Early identification is crucial for long-term care planning.
✔ ADHD Testing (Children & Adults)
Differentiates ADHD from sleep, anxiety, trauma, or medical factors.
✔ Learning Disability (LD) Testing
Reading (dyslexia), writing, math, and processing challenges.
✔ Seizure/Epilepsy-Related Evaluation
Tracks cognitive functioning affected by seizure disorders.
6. Full Neuropsychological Report
This is one of the strongest differentiators among clinics.
Top clinics — including those in Ann Arbor and Novi — provide:
- Clear diagnostic conclusions
- Strengths and weaknesses profile
- Objective test results
- Treatment recommendations
- Medical/psychological insights
- Guidance for school or work accommodations
Neuropsychology Partners generally delivers reports within one month, which is significantly faster than many Michigan providers.
7. Personalized Treatment Recommendations
The final part of the evaluation includes a detailed plan that may involve:
- Cognitive rehabilitation
- Memory strategies and compensatory techniques
- Psychotherapy or counseling
- Medication consultation
- OT or speech therapy referrals
- Return-to-work or return-to-school plans
- Disability or workplace accommodations (if applicable)
Recommendations are customized based on each patient’s cognitive profile.
8. Same-Day Feedback Session
Most high-quality clinics offer a same-day feedback meeting after testing, where patients can:
- Review early results
- Ask questions
- Understand next steps
- Receive immediate guidance
This greatly helps reduce anxiety and uncertainty for families.
Why Patients Trust Neuropsychology Partners (Ann Arbor & Novi)
Neuropsychology Partners is recognized across Michigan for:
- Evidence-based, research-supported testing
- Specialization in memory disorders, dementia, ADHD, and TBI
- Quick scheduling and timely reporting
- Strong communication with referring physicians
- Insurance-friendly services
- Compassionate, patient-centered care
Local patients also prefer clinics with two convenient locations (Ann Arbor & Novi), minimizing long travel times for elderly patients or parents with school-age children.