At MapleTree, Dr. Clarice Mendonca offers a range of evaluative services, including:
- Neuropsychological
- Assessments
- Psychoeducational assessments
- Personality assessments
Assessments are comprehensive and detailed evaluations of the patient’s abilities and capacities. Dr. Clarice adopts a flexible, process-based approach to evaluate a person’s memory, attention, executive functions (e.g., planning and control), voluntary movement, language, visual-spatial perception, thoughts, behavior, and emotions. This is done through structured interviews, review of records, observations, questionnaires, and performance-based measures.
Why are these done?
To establish an objective baseline of abilities
To identify capacities & levels of functioning
To diagnose & recommend evidence-based interventions
Who can benefit?
Patients, families, and healthcare/service providers may find the results useful.
When can testing be done?
We administer the tests during morning and afternoon hours only. Other appointments can be scheduled during available clinic hours. Self-report measures can be completed at the person’s own time and as per Dr. Clarice’s recommendations.
Where are they conducted?
Assessments are conducted at the clinic. The initial interview and feedback sessions can occur online. If needed, Dr. Clarice may also administer tests at a school or hospital.
What can you expect?
Each assessment involves at least three appointments.
1
INTERVIEW
1 hour appointment
Dr. Clarice will inquire about the problems and history of the person
2
TESTING
2-6 hours appointment(s)
The patient will be asked to perform different tasks over one or two sessions
3
FEEDBACK
1 hour appointment
Dr. Clarice will share the results and recommendations verbally and through a detailed report
Assessment FAQs for Patients
- Do I need to study before the test?
No, there is nothing to study beforehand. The purpose of these assessment is to get a sense of how you use your abilities. - Is it invasive or will Dr. Clarice read my mind and know what I am thinking?
No, the testing is not invasive, and psychologists are not trained to read minds. - What if I feel nervous or stressed?
Everyone does! It is natural to feel nervous because very little information is given regarding exactly what the tests will look like and what the results might say about you. Dr. Clarice will carefully consider this when working with you and interpreting your results. Do not be afraid to mention to Dr. Clarice if you feel nervous, frustrated, or even tired at any point during the assessment. - Why does it take so long?
Since our psychological and neurological functioning is complex and affected by many different factors, it is essential to consider and evaluate all domains during your tests. This allows us to be more accurate. - Why can’t I just do a brain scan?
A brain scan (CT or MRI) provides very little information about what the brain can do. The structure of the brain (as seen on imaging) does not always align with the way the brain functions in reality. - Why should I take my medication as usual?
The purpose of the assessment is to improve and give direction to any intervention. Therefore, if you routinely take medications, please take them as usual so that your current functioning and ongoing issues may be assessed despite the medication. - What about treatment?
The results of this assessment will help you determine effective choices regarding your healthcare needs. It will help your doctors and other healthcare providers make better decisions regarding interventions and strategies. - What will the report include?
The report will include all the data collected (including relevant background information), the results, summary of the findings and diagnoses, and recommendations.
Preparation for the Testing Day
Sleep
Try and sleep well the night before the testing day
Medication
Take your medications (if any) as you usually would even on the testing day
Arrival
Plan to arrive at the clinic at least half an hour before the appointment time
Medical Aids
Bring your glasses, hearing aids, walking cane, or any other supports
Food & Beverage
We provide tea, coffee, and water upon request. Please make your own food arrangements
Caregivers
During test administration, caregivers are welcome to stay in the waiting area or leave and return when testing is done
Post Test Fatigue
It is common to feel tired or exhausted after several hours of testing. Keep your schedule light for the rest of the day, relax or treat yourself for all your hard work!
REQUEST APPOINTMENT
Please complete this form, Dr. Clarice will do her best to get back to you within 24 hours.
