The 1990’s were designated the “decade of the brain” by President George H. Bush “to enhance public awareness of the benefits to be derived from brain research.” Over the past following 2-3 decades, we have learned much about the brain, its structure, functions, and processes. We also have greater understanding how any insult to the brain, from minor to severe, can result in changes in functioning. In the past, a neurocognitive evaluation was helpful to determine the presence of a lesion or structural damage. With the advent of imaging studies, neurocognitive assessment has shifted its focus to increased understanding of the impact of a brain insult, such as concussions, on an individual’s cognitive processes. We also are keenly aware that such psychological conditions as anxiety and depression can mirror cognitive complaints. In conducting neurocognitive assessments, it is imperative that the examiner remain abreast of current literature, understand the sequelae of cognitive dysfunction and emotional difficulty, and accurately administer and interpret appropriate psychological measures. Depending on the reasons for seeking this evaluation, the examiner must explain how the individual’s strengths and limitations may affect him/her across various life domains. For years, ForPsych has conducted these evaluations in a broad range of settings, from veterans returning from the battlefield to persons injured in motor vehicle accidents, among others.
