The neurobehavioral examination is a special evaluation of brain functioning. The brain controls behaviors such as seeing, hearing, feeling, movements, thinking, and emotion. This examination will test attentional capacity, memory, speech, language, problem-solving, spatial and perceptual abilities, manual dexterity, motor and sensory functions. Also, you may be given a routine questionnaire to fill out providing information about your current medical symptoms, moods, and attitudes.

For Children and Adolescents

It is important that the patient's mother (or whomever has been the patient’s primary care provider during their lifetime) accompany the patient to this examination. The accompanying adult will be interviewed about the patient and asked to complete questionnaires as part of the routine examination process. We will need to obtain information about the pregnancy and birth, early development, family history, etc. If not already provided, you will need to bring school records, medical records, and prior educational, psychological, psychiatric, or neurological testing or evaluations. We will make copies of these (as needed) and return the originals to you before the conclusion of this evaluation.

There are three or four basic components of this evaluation process. These consist of:

• Dr. Hamsher’s review of medical and all other pertinent records
• Neuropsychological testing of the patient (with the testing being administered by a Master’s level psychometrist working under Dr. Hamsher’s direct supervision)
• Dr. Hamsher’s diagnostic interview and examination of the patient

In the case of child or adolescent patient – OR

In the case of an adult patient who is unable to provide an accurate history and self-description of their behavior and problems –

• Dr. Hamsher’s interview of the accompanying family member or care giver