Assessment/Evaluations
Dr. Rice provides psychological, neuropsychological and employment/career evaluations for individuals ages 16 and older. All psychological and neuropsychological evaluations include a review of strengths and weaknesses, relevant psychosocial factors, health/nutritional factors, medication recommendations (as needed), recommendations for cognitive rehabilitation (as needed), social, emotional and counseling/therapy recommendations.
Neuropsychological assessments include a thorough interview and may focus on intellectual functioning and/or cognitive functioning.
Psychological Assessment
Psychological assessments include a thorough interview, and a comprehensive assessment of personality utilizing both objective and subjective techniques. If appropriate, a screening of neuropsychological function may also be included. All domains of psychological/personality function are evaluated, and a comprehensive report is provided which outlines personality strengths and challenges, as well as recommendations for therapeutic interventions when/if appropriate.
Intellectual Assessment
Intellectual assessments inform functioning from a perspective of capacity to achieve. This assessment can be utilized as a strong predictor of educational and career success. Dr. Rice utilizes the most advanced psychometric measure of adult cognitive ability, based on recent research in cognitive neuroscience and the theories and work of David Wechsler, PhD. All domains of cognitive function are evaluated, and a comprehensive report is provided which outlines how to capitalize on cognitive strengths and recommendations to improve cognitive weaknesses.
Dementia Evaluations
Dementia evaluations/evaluation of cognitive functioning require an interview with both the patient and a caregiver or spouse.
There is no single test that can determine if a person is living with Alzheimer’s or another dementia. However, diagnostic tools combined with medical history and other information, including neurological exams, cognitive and functional assessments, brain imaging (MRI, CT, PET) and cerebrospinal fluid or blood tests can be used to make an accurate diagnosis.
There are several types of dementia, each with its own distinct characteristics. Dr. Rice can diagnose the type of dementia by evaluating a patient’s memory and thinking patterns. Consideration is given to a person’s baseline intellectual functioning, grasp of language, mood states, problem-solving skills, ability to maintain focus and perform complex tasks.
Dr. Rice has evaluated a variety of dementias including Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia, fronto-temporal dementia, dementia with Lewy bodies, posterior cortical atrophy, Parkinson’s dementia, Korsakoff’s syndrome, mixed dementia, and normal pressure hydrocephalus.
If requested, determination can be made regarding cognitive capacity to make medical, legal, and financial decisions, and whether an individual is safe to drive, stay home alone and/or live independently.
Other evaluations of cognitive functioning
Evaluations of cognitive functioning can also be utilized to:
- Identify cognitive, emotional, social, behavioral dysfunction, and learning differences.
- Evaluate attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and cognitive impact from other neurological disorders/diseases, such as brain tumor, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, and seizures.
- To establish baseline functioning. This is recommended for anyone over the age of 50 years, especially those with a family history of dementia.
Post traumatic brain injury (TBI) evaluations
Post traumatic brain injury (TBI) evaluations include screening of personality, cognitive functioning, and recommendations for therapeutic interventions (physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, etc). These evaluations are often used to identify strengths, weaknesses, needs and/or to monitor changes, progress, and response to therapeutic interventions.
Post TBI return to work/school evaluations include recommendations for accommodations in the workplace/school setting.
Specialty/Health Psychology Evaluations
Dr. Rice conducts a variety of specialty evaluations, including, but not limited to, those listed below. She provides health psychology assessments and interventions, including pre-surgical evaluations for spinal surgery, bariatric surgery, stimulator placement or other conditions and pain management assessment.
Career and employment assessments
Career and employment assessments include a screening of personality, an evaluation of intellectual functioning, achievement and interests, a screening of cognitive functioning, and assessment of skills. These evaluations may be helpful to those interested in furthering their education, enhancing their career goals, and/or those considering a career change.