What to expect as a new patient

The need to participate in a psychological or neuropsychological evaluation is typically anxiety-provoking in itself, as we are assessing a problem or concern. It is also not generally a common occurrence for people. In an effort to reduce the stress related to approaching an unknown set of circumstances, we provide the following information to illuminate the process.

If we receive a referral from another provider, we will call to see if you would like to proceed with scheduling and to verify insurance and payment information. If you are self-referred, please call to discuss your specific needs and Dr. Grigsby will determine if we can accommodate them. If so, we will proceed with scheduling. In most instances, two 2-hour appointments will be made at the outset. Often, only two appointments will be necessary, but there are situations that may require a third – the timing varies based upon the number and length of the tests utilized and the pace established by the patient’s response time, which cannot be determined in advance. Additionally, accommodations can be made should you require shorter or longer appointment times. For some, a 2-hour session is overly strenuous, while others may be traveling a fair distance and prefer to complete all testing in one day with breaks throughout. You are always welcome to bring a drink or snack along should you feel that you may need it, regardless of session length.  

Once scheduled, you will receive a New Patient Packet via email (unless you require a hardcopy mailed to you). This will include office policies, patient information, consent to treatment and billing for services, and a pre-interview form to be completed and signed. We will also need copies (front & back) of your photo ID and insurance card(s), and any related previous test results or provider’s notes would be useful. Ideally, we would appreciate your returning these items via email prior to your first scheduled appointment. 

When arriving for your first appointment, Dr. Grigsby will greet you personally. As she sees patients individually by appointment only, please plan to arrive no earlier than 10 minutes prior to your scheduled time.  If your New Patient Packet was not returned via email, it is important that you have it with you. Otherwise, your appointment may need to be rescheduled. 

During your first meeting, Dr. Grigsby will generally review your paperwork and gather further information about your history, current functioning, and concerns based upon your pre-interview form. If you would feel more comfortable having someone accompany you during the intake interview, either due to memory or communication difficulties, or for emotional support, they would be welcome. This portion usually takes 1 to 1½ hours, and testing may begin afterward in order to complete the 2-hour session.

It is preferable that you meet with Dr. Grigsby one-to-one for testing sessions. This generally optimizes performance by reducing distractions. If you require someone to accompany you for emotional support, however, we understand and they will be asked to wait in the next room. During testing, you will most frequently be sitting opposite Dr. Grigsby across a desk/table. There are a variety of methods used to obtain testing data. Most will be interactive and involve her providing verbal and/or written instructions or questions. For some tasks you will be asked to provide verbal responses (e.g., speaking), while for others you may be asked to provide nonverbal responses (e.g., pointing, drawing, writing, or otherwise manipulating materials). The items for each subtest generally progress from easy to difficult, as we are assessing where along the spectrum you are currently functioning.  You will also be asked to complete self-report questionnaires which can usually be done at home between sessions, either via pencil-and-paper form or online administration.

Once your testing sessions have been completed, Dr. Grigsby will score the tests and interpret the data. These results will then be compared and analyzed in the context of your individual circumstances (e.g., age, history, current symptomology, and previous functioning), resulting in diagnosis and treatment recommendations. Once completed, we will call to schedule a feedback session with Dr. Grigsby either in-person or via teleconference to review this information and address any questions or concerns. You are welcome to have a loved-one or caregiver join you so that they can have a better understanding as well. Ultimately, a written evaluation will be provided to you and your referring provider (if applicable) via encrypted email. You may forward your written report to any provider as you wish, or may request that Dr. Grigsby send it directly, either currently or in the future.

It may be recommended that you be reevaluated in the future. Often this strategy is used in order to monitor changes in functioning which would inform treatment plan continuation or modification.