neuropsychology FAQs

+ WHAT IS A NEUROPSYCHOLOGIST?

Neuropsychologists are doctoral level clinical psychologists who have specialized knowledge and post-doctoral training in the applied science of brain-behavior relationships.

According to the American Board of Clinical Neuropsychology, clinical neuropsychologists apply this knowledge to the assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of patients across the lifespan who have developmental, neurological, medical, or psychiatric conditions.

A clinical neuropsychologist employs a variety of assessment methods to evaluate patients’ cognitive and emotional strengths and weaknesses. This information, in conjunction with information provided by family members and other medical/healthcare providers, is used to identify and diagnose neurobehavioral disorders, counsel patients and their families, and plan and implement intervention strategies.

+ WHAT IS A NEUROPSYCHOLOGICAL EVALUATION?

An individual is typically referred for an evaluation when there has been a change in cognition, behavior and personality. This change can be experienced by the individual, or observed by a loved one or medical provider.

In general, a neuropsychological evaluation consists of three parts:

Review of medical records Clinical interview with the patient and loved ones The administration of standardized tests sensitive to different areas of thinking abilities

+ WHO IS REFERRED FOR A NEUROPSYCHOLOGICAL EVALUATION?

Neuropsychologists see patients who have experienced a wide range of conditions including:

Memory loss
Concern for neurodegenerative disease (e.g., Alzheimer's disease)
Motor changes and Movement disorders (e.g., Parkinson's disease)
Cerebrovascular disease
Stroke
Head injury and suspected concussion
Endocrine disorders (e.g., Hashimoto’s disease)
ADHD
Learning difficulties
Chronic pain
Sleep issues (insomnia, sleep apnea)
Depression
Anxiety / Panic

+ WHAT HAPPENS? PLEASE EXPLAIN THE PROCESS...

While there is variability, the evaluation itself can last approximately 4 hours. During the first portion of the evaluation, Dr. Kiely conducts a clinical interview in order to obtain comprehensive information about you and the reason(s) why you were referred. Following the interview, you will be administered a battery of tests. These tests are standardized and sensitive to different aspects of your thinking (memory, language, etc.). The tests are unique, and are administered in a variety of ways (paper/pencil, oral instructions, use of a computer, manipulation of materials).

Upon completion of testing, Dr. Kiely will write a comprehensive report summarizing the information obtained from the evaluation (clinical interview and test results), and integrate any other relevant clinical information (neuroimaging results, lab work), informed recommendations to improve day-to-day quality of life, and a diagnosis.

+ WHAT SHOULD I BRING?

Testing may take several hours, so it's smart to prepare for that. Please feel free to bring snacks and drinks. Water will be provided.

Bring copies of all relevant medical records including: physician notes from previous physicals, recent lab work, radiology reports from neuroimaging (if applicable and available), and any previous neuropsychological or psychological reports.

Please bring hearing aids and reading glasses as needed.

Dr. Kiely may ask that a close family member or friend accompany you to the appointment to provide additional information.

+ I NEED TO CANCEL. WHAT DO I DO?

If you must cancel, please contact Dr. Kiely at tomkielyphd@gmail.com or call (415) 938-4954 as soon as possible so that the time can be offered to another waiting assessment patient.

Cancellations within 24 hours of the appointment time will be subject to a charge of 1 hour at the hourly rate. This fee is not covered under insurance, although can be applied to a rescheduled evaluation (within 1 year).

psychotherapy faqs

+ HOW LONG DOES THERAPY LAST?

There are a variety of factors that contribute to length of treatment including the nature of the presenting problem and the duration of symptoms, along with other client factors such as motivation, adherence, and effort. Dr. Kiely, however, only utilizes effective evidence based treatment. As such, motivated clients often experience at least some symptom relief within a few sessions.

+ HOW LONG DO SESSIONS LAST?

Typically sessions run 50 minutes in length and clients are generally seen on a weekly basis. On occasion, however, some clients may benefit by attending sessions more frequently during the week. This will be determined by you and Dr. Kiely when discussing your individualized treatment plan and therapeutic goals.

+ WHEN ARE APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE?

Because neuropsychological evaluations can occupy most of the work day, Dr. Kiely has somewhat limited availability for therapy patients. He appreciates, however, that people living in the Bay Area have very busy lives and, as such, he has reserved therapy appointments to occur before and after school/work.

+ CAN DR. KIELY PRESCRIBE MEDICATIONS?

No. Dr. Kiely is not that kind of doctor. The American Psychological Association (APA) has, however, identified psychopharmacology as a discipline of psychology. While there are several states that have enacted law allowing appropriately trained psychologists to prescribe psychotropic medications (New Mexico, Louisiana, Illinois, Iowa), the state of California has not yet done so.

Nonetheless, Dr. Kiely works closely with psychiatrists and other prescribing physicians in the community. He is more than happy to provide a list of local prescribing providers in the area who specialize in the pharmacological treatment of anxiety and mood disorders.

+ I NEED TO CANCEL. WHAT DO I DO?

If you must cancel, please contact Dr. Kiely at tomkielyphd@gmail.com or call (415) 938-4954 as soon as possible so that the time can be offered to another waiting patient.