Clinical Neuropsychology

Clinical neuropsychology is a specialty profession that focuses on brain functioning evaluated by objectively testing memory and thinking skills. The Neuropsychology Section at LSUHSC is housed in the Clinical Research Building and is staffed by Dr. James Pinkston and Ms. Shari Martinez. Dr. Pinkston is a licensed psychologist with specialty designation in Clinical Neuropsychology through the state of Louisiana. Ms. Martinez is a highly trained neuropsychometrist and holds a Masters Degree in Counseling Psychology. The Neuropsychology Section specializes in the cognitive and psychological evaluation of patients with a variety of different diagnoses. Typical referral questions include, among others, requests to describe and quantify cognitive decline, determine functional loss compared to pre-existing levels following an event, assess medico-legal capacity, assist in civil and criminal forensic proceedings, aid in determining suitability and risk of functional loss following neurosurgery or neuropsychological change following neurosurgery, and help determine suitability for various treatments for chronic pain. Diagnoses seen include multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, dementia, head injury, chronic pain, ADHD, toxic exposure, and electrical injury, as well as other conditions. Approximately 80% of patients are 16 years of age or older, but children are also regularly evaluated. The majority of evaluations are conducted on an outpatient basis. A neuropsychological evaluation usually consists of an interview and testing. Testing involves taking paper-and pencil or computerized tests and answering questions. The time required depends on the problem being assessed. In general, several hours are needed to assess the many skills involved in processing information. A typical neuropsychological evaluation involves assessment of general intellect, higher level executive skills (e.g., sequencing, reasoning, problem solving), attention and concentration, learning and memory, language, visual–spatial skills (e.g., perception), motor and sensory skills, and mood and personality. The patient’s resultant pattern of strengths and weaknesses is then used in important health care areas, such as diagnosis and treatment planning.

James B. Pinkston, Ph.D.