Functional Neurologic Disorder
Understanding Functional Neurologic Disorder (FND)
Functional Neurologic Disorder (FND), also known as Functional Neurological Symptom Disorder (FNSD) or Conversion Disorder, is a condition in which individuals experience neurological symptoms that cannot be fully explained by underlying organic causes. These symptoms may resemble those of neurological disorders, such as seizures, weakness, movement difficulties, or sensory disturbances. However, FND is characterized by the involvement of the central nervous system and is often triggered by psychological or emotional stressors.
The Importance of FND Testing
Accurate assessment and diagnosis of Functional Neurologic Disorder are essential for providing appropriate care and support. FND testing aims to:
- Differentiate from Organic Neurological Disorders: Thorough evaluation helps rule out underlying organic causes and medical conditions that may mimic FND symptoms.
- Understand Psychological Factors: Identifying psychological triggers or stressors that contribute to the development of FND is crucial for developing effective intervention strategies.
- Create a Personalized Treatment Plan: Understanding the specific presentation of FND in each individual enables the development of tailored treatment plans that address both neurological and psychological aspects.
- Provide Clarity and Validation: Receiving a diagnosis can provide validation and relief to individuals experiencing unexplained neurological symptoms.
Our Functional Neurologic Disorder Testing Process
At Tennessee Neuropsychology, we follow a comprehensive and compassionate approach to FND testing. Our process typically includes the following steps:
- Initial Consultation: We begin with an initial consultation to understand your medical and psychological history, the nature of your symptoms, and any potential triggers.
- Neuropsychological Evaluation: Our experienced professionals perform a detailed neuropsychological evaluation to assess your overall cognitive functioning and functioning across neurological domains (e.g., attention, memory, visuospatial skills, verbal skills, nonverbal reasoning).
- Psychological Assessment: We utilize validated psychological assessment tools to explore emotional stressors, coping mechanisms, and psychological factors that may be contributing to FND symptoms.
- Collaborative Analysis and Report: Our team carefully analyzes the assessment data and prepares a comprehensive report. The report includes diagnostic impressions, a summary of findings, and recommendations for intervention and support.
- Feedback and Support: We schedule a feedback session to discuss the evaluation results, answer your questions, and provide guidance on potential treatment options.
If you or a loved one is seeking understanding and support related to Functional Neurologic Disorder, Tennessee Neuropsychology can help. Contact our team in Knoxville, to schedule an appointment or learn more about our FND testing and evaluation services.
