Neuropsychiatric assessment

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Undergoing a neuropsychiatric assessment can feel scary and complicated, but it doesn’t have to be. In this article you will gain a better understanding of what a neuropsychiatric assessment is and how it works. This is particularly relevant if you or someone close to you suspects a neuropsychiatric diagnosis such as ADHD or autism.

What is a neuropsychiatric assessment?

A neuropsychiatric assessment assesses difficulties and strengths as well as areas where a person needs additional support and assistance. It involves interviews with the individual and family that identify neuropsychiatric symptoms in both childhood and adulthood. Additionally, this assessment looks at how these symptoms affect different areas of life such as study, work and relationships. It may also include cognitive tests to get more information about current functioning.

What set our therapist apart was her genuine empathy and personal insight. Not only did she possess a deep understanding of neurodiversity, but she also shared personal experiences that resonated with us, creating an instant connection and fostering a sense of trust!

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The assessment is carried out by both a licensed psychologist and psychiatrist. You will meet both of them during the assessment. An assessment can be an important part of the journey towards deeper self-knowledge and better psychological health.

Why carry out an assessment?

Often, people think it over for a long time before initiating a neuropsychiatric assessment. If you are younger, your school or parent may have brought it up. If you are an adult, you may have noticed that you function in a slightly different way than your peers. Additionally, you may have had some difficulties at school, at work or in relationships. An assessment can provide several benefits and help you gain:

• Understanding: Gain clarity on your situation and understand why some things may be more challenging for you.
• Treatment plan: With a diagnosis, you and your healthcare team can create an effective treatment plan. You can get help with concentration, planning and organization but also problems such as confidence and self-esteem.
• Support: A diagnosis can give you access to resources and support that would otherwise not be available. For example, you gain access to accommodations at work and school. You may also qualify for government funding and support.

A neuropsychiatric assessment can tell you if you have both ADHD and autism, conditions that often co-exist. ADHD involves difficulties with attention, hyperactivity and impulsivity. Autism manifests itself as difficulties in social situations, along with special interests and may have difficulty with change. Both of these diagnoses have different levels of severity, with more or less impact on everyday life. The assessment will tell you what level you have and provide you with measures adapted to your specific situation.

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How does a neuropsychiatric assessment work?

• Assessment by a specialist: A psychologist or psychiatrist will make an initial assessment.
• Tests and interviews: These may include psychological and cognitive tests as well as discussion with family members.
• Diagnostic evaluation: The results of these tests and interviews are combined to give the psychologist or psychiatrist a complete picture of your situation.

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1. Initial assessment

Before the actual assessment process, it starts with an assessment interview with a licensed psychologist where they go through your background, your symptoms and other factors that may explain your concerns. You will also fill in forms and self-assessment tests related to your behaviour and areas of difficulty. If your symptoms are suggestive of a neuropsychiatric diagnosis, they will proceed to the next step.

2. Neuropsychiatric assessment

An assessment usually involves meeting with a licensed psychologist, who conducts interviews and testing, and a psychiatrist, who makes an assessment and orders tests. The different parts of a neuropsychiatric assessment for adults in private practice usually include:

• Interviews: It starts with a diagnostic interview to see how your symptoms have affected you in childhood and adulthood, in areas such as work, leisure and relationships. To make sure that your symptoms have been present since childhood, the process usually also includes an interview with a family member.
• Psychological tests: These investigations measure attention, concentration and other cognitive functions.
• Doctor’s visit: As part of the assessment, you will see a doctor for a neurological assessment and blood tests.

Step 4: Evaluation and diagnosis

After the assessment, the doctor and psychologist will summarize the results and make a diagnosis together. You will then receive a thorough review of the results and a psychological report with recommendations for further action. These are adapted to your unique situation.

5. After the assessment

If they make a diagnosis, we will discuss different treatment options with you. This may include:

• Medication if necessary
• Adapted cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT)
• Support and adaptations in working life or studies

It’s also worth noting that a neuropsychiatric diagnosis also comes with certain rights, such as accommodations at work and school. You may also be able to get help and financial support from the Government.