As a Los Angeles-based clinical psychologist specializing in neuropsychological assessment, I sometimes encounter confusion or hesitation when discussing cognitive testing – what exactly is it and why might someone need a neuropsych eval? Amidst the sunshine and diverse life of LA, prioritizing brain health is crucial so we can make the most of the wonderful city we live in. Here are 10 common reasons why cognitive testing can be valuable for Angelenos:
Navigate Hollywood's Demanding Environment:
Actors, musicians, and creatives in LA's competitive scene can benefit from understanding their cognitive strengths and weaknesses to optimize performance and manage demanding schedules. Sometimes, great creativity can come with intense emotions, problems with attention and follow-through, or other mental health concerns. A psychological assessment can also help with a diagnosis and getting the right support for a balanced life and self-care.
Stay Active and Independent:
Seniors in LA who cherish their active lifestyles sometimes want a neuropsychological evaluation to monitor mental fitness and identify any concerns early, ensuring continued independence, early intervention for any brain health concerns, and participation in the city's diverse offerings.
Address the Unique Challenges of a Multicultural City:
LA's large and diverse population means we need culturally competent providers in all areas to ensure accurate results and avoid bias. As a clinical psychologist who trained in Las Vegas and San Francisco before coming to LA 10 years ago, I have experience providing compassionate, culturally-informed care for patients crossing many varied identities – ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, neurodivergence, disability status, age, socioeconomic status, immigrant status, and religious background. I am committed to educating myself, checking my own bias, and approaching each psych assessment, capacity evaluation, and neuropsych eval with cultural humility.
Access Renowned Research Opportunities:
UCLA, USC, and other research institutions in LA offer opportunities to participate in cutting-edge studies on brain health and cognition. Sometimes cognitive testing is a gateway to contributing to scientific advancements in this city!
Manage the Stress of LA Life:
From traffic jams and high cost of living to competitive environments, LA can also be stressful. A psych assessment in Los Angeles can identify potential emotional, social, and cognitive impacts of stress and guide you toward effective stress management strategies.
Make Informed Decisions about Retirement:
Whether enjoying the beaches or exploring local culture, Angelenos planning for retirement, either well in advance or coming soon, can use a neuropsychological assessment to get a baseline measurement of brain health, which improves readiness for the future, and can help with early identification of any concerning patterns. I have seen many patients who use their neuropsych evaluation results to make informed decisions about future care and living arrangements.
Support Loved Ones:
If you're concerned about a loved one's cognitive abilities or capacity to continue living on their own or manage finances, neuropsych testing conducted by a Los Angeles psychologist can provide insight, clear and personalized treatment recommendations, and guide you towards local support groups, resources, and care options.
Get Answers:
Many adults live with unexplained symptoms that have a real negative impact on every life, such as attention problems that get in the way of work and relationships, lifelong difficulty in social situations that they’ve never understood, or intense highs and lows in mood. Angelenos can seek psych testing to finally get answers about those symptoms, as well as an understanding of how to manage them for a balanced life and well-being.
Find Personalized Brain Fitness Solutions:
From executive function coaches to mindfulness groups, LA boasts a plethora of brain-healthy activities, and I am connected with many professionals in a variety of fields doing excellent work. Neuropsych testing can help personalize your approach and maximize the benefits of these resources.
Embrace a Holistic Approach to Wellness:
In the wellness-conscious culture of LA, cognitive testing or psychological testing complements your dedication to physical and mental fitness, providing a complete picture of your overall well-being.
Begin Neruopsych or Psychological Testing in Los Angeles, CA
A psych assessment or neuropsych assessment is an investment in your future. You are always welcome to reach out to me as a qualified Los Angeles-based psychologist to discuss your unique needs and explore whether testing is right for you. Take charge of your brain health and embrace the vibrant life LA offers with confidence and clarity by following these simple steps:
Contact (424) 262-1925 to schedule your appointment
Meet with a Los Angeles Psychologist for an evaluation
Start receiving the support your loved ones deserve!
OTHER SERVICES OFFERED BY DR. REGER IN LOS ANGELES, CA
Psychological assessments aren’t the only service I offer. I know that you may encounter more than one mental health concern at a time. This is why I’m happy to offer multiple neuropsychological assessments. Other assessments include capacity assessments, cognitive and dementia testing, pre-surgical assessments, and med-legal evaluations. In addition to evaluations, I also provide individual therapy, counseling for older adults, and mental health consultations and presentations. Visit my blog for more helpful support today!