Comprehensive Neuropsychological Assessment: Domains, Processes, and Tests Used
A comprehensive neuropsychological assessment is an essential process that allows for the overall evaluation of cognitive abilities corresponding to key neuropsychological domains. At our Center, the Comprehensive Center for Educational Neuropsychology , we focus on evaluating neuropsychological processes by area, ranging from basic processes (such as perception, gnosis, praxis, and attention) to higher cognitive processes (reasoning, intelligence, and executive functions).
Below, we detail the key areas we evaluate and some of the tests we use in children, adolescents, and adults to conduct a comprehensive neuropsychological assessment :
Key Domains and Neuropsychological Assessment Batteries
Attention and executive function processes are closely related to fundamental abilities such as inhibition, task initiation, cognitive flexibility, planning, selective attention, sustained attention, and resistance to distractibility. Their assessment is essential for the diagnosis of ADHD .
Tests used: d2-r, NEPSY-II, BANFE-3 and ENFEN.
Language and Verbal Comprehension
Language refers to the ability to effectively express and understand aspects related to verbal communication.
Tests used: We use standardized intelligence tests such as the WPPSI-IV (preschoolers), WISC-V (children and adolescents), and WAIS-IV (adults). Specifically, the Verbal Comprehension Index (VCI) allows us to assess a person's ability to understand and respond to various verbal stimuli.
Memory and learning processes are related to the ability to acquire, retain new information, and access it quickly and efficiently.
Tests used: During the memory assessment, we used specific tests such as NEPSY-II (Child Neuropsychological Battery), TOMAL (Memory and Learning Test), and the indices of the intelligence tests WPPSI-IV, WISC-V and WAIS-IV, in particular the Working Memory Index (WMI).
Processing Speed (PS)
Processing speed is a fundamental cognitive function. It is defined as the time it takes an individual to receive information, process it, and produce a motor or verbal response. It is a key indicator of mental efficiency and the speed with which the brain performs automatic or routine tasks. Measuring it is essential for identifying dysfunctions in academic performance or the first signs of cognitive decline.
Tests used: d2-r, TESEN (Trail Test for the Evaluation of Executive Functions), and the indices of the WPPSI-IV, WISC-V and WAIS-IV intelligence tests, by obtaining the Processing Speed Index (PSI).
Visual and visoperceptual processing refers to processes related to the global (shape) and local (details) analysis of visual information. These tasks are necessary when matching patterns, identifying visual forms, or constructing three-dimensional designs.
Tests used: DTVP-3 (Frostings Test of Visual Perception, 3rd Edition), which allows for a comprehensive measurement of these indicators. Similarly, visual perception indices and visuospatial indices in intelligence tests help to measure visual-perceptual abilities.
Comprehensive Center for Educational Neuropsychology:
Remember that, in addition to the comprehensive neuropsychological assessment, we offer a holistic evaluation using other neuropsychological, clinical, or educational tests. If you are interested in learning more about this service, please contact us at +507 6535 6362 and we will be happy to assist you.