Comprehensive Psychological & Neuropsychological IMEs

When psychological or cognitive issues are relevant to a claim, an Independent Medical Evaluation provides an impartial assessment of the individual’s current functioning, clinical presentation, and relationship to the reported injury or condition.

Delia Silva, PsyD, ABPP-CN provides comprehensive psychological and neuropsychological IMEs for attorneys, insurers, employers, and other organizations. Her evaluations integrate clinical interview, behavioral observations, psychological and neuropsychological testing, medical records, and relevant collateral information to develop clear, evidence-based opinions.

Independent. Thorough. Evidence-Based.

An IME should do more than document symptoms. It should address the specific medical-legal questions presented by the referral.

Dr. Silva approaches each evaluation independently and considers the full clinical picture, including:

  • The individual’s medical and psychological history
  • The reported mechanism of injury and course of symptoms
  • Current cognitive, emotional, and behavioral functioning
  • Objective neuropsychological and psychological test findings
  • Medical records and prior evaluations
  • Relevant neurological and psychiatric factors
  • Functional limitations and reported occupational difficulties
  • The consistency of subjective complaints with objective findings
  • Alternative explanations for reported symptoms and impairment
  • Relevant scientific literature and clinical standards

The result is a comprehensive evaluation designed to help decision-makers understand what the evidence supports—and what it does not.

Psychological & Neuropsychological IMEs

Dr. Silva conducts evaluations involving a broad range of psychological and neuropsychological questions, including cases involving:

Traumatic Brain Injury & Concussion

Assessment of cognitive and emotional functioning following traumatic brain injury, concussion, or other head trauma.

Cognitive Complaints

Evaluation of reported problems with memory, attention, processing speed, executive functioning, and other cognitive abilities.

Psychological Conditions

Assessment of depression, anxiety, PTSD, adjustment disorders, and other psychological conditions that may affect functioning.

Chronic Pain & Medical Conditions

Evaluation of psychological and cognitive factors associated with chronic pain and complex medical conditions.

Functional Cognitive Complaints

Assessment of situations in which subjective cognitive complaints and objective test findings may not fully align.

Occupational Functioning

Evaluation of cognitive and psychological factors relevant to an individual’s ability to perform occupational responsibilities.

A Comprehensive Approach to Evaluation

Dr. Silva’s evaluations are designed to answer the referral questions rather than simply generate test scores.

Depending on the nature of the case, an evaluation may include:

01 — Records Review
Review of relevant medical records, diagnostic studies, prior evaluations, treatment records, employment information, and other available documentation.

02 — Clinical Interview
Detailed examination of the individual’s medical, psychological, educational, occupational, and psychosocial history.

03 — Behavioral Observation
Assessment of the individual’s presentation, behavior, communication, and approach to the evaluation.

04 — Psychological & Neuropsychological Testing
Administration of standardized measures selected based on the referral questions and the individual’s clinical presentation.

05 — Data Integration
Integration of test results with the clinical history, records, behavioral observations, and other relevant evidence.

06 — Expert Opinion & Report
Clear, reasoned opinions addressing the specific medical-legal questions presented in the referral.

Questions an IME May Address

The specific questions depend on the nature of the referral, but may include:

  • What psychological or neuropsychological diagnoses, if any, are supported by the available evidence?
  • Is there evidence of cognitive impairment?
  • Are reported cognitive difficulties consistent with objective findings?
  • What factors may be contributing to the individual’s reported symptoms?
  • Is there evidence that psychological factors are affecting cognitive or functional performance?
  • What is the individual’s current level of psychological and cognitive functioning?
  • What functional limitations, if any, are supported by the available evidence?
  • Are the reported symptoms and limitations consistent with the medical and psychological record?
  • What treatment, if any, is clinically indicated?
  • What is the individual’s prognosis?
  • Are there other factors or conditions that should be considered when interpreting the individual’s presentation?

An Independent Perspective

The purpose of an Independent Medical Evaluation is to provide an independent professional opinion.

Dr. Silva does not provide treatment to individuals evaluated through her forensic practice. Her role is to objectively evaluate the available evidence and provide an impartial clinical opinion within her areas of expertise.

Her reports are designed to be thorough enough to withstand scrutiny while clear enough to be understood by attorneys, insurers, employers, and other decision-makers.

The goal is not simply to identify symptoms. It is to determine what the evidence means.

For Attorneys, Insurers & Organizations

Dr. Silva accepts referrals for IMEs from:

  • Plaintiff and defense attorneys
  • Insurance carriers
  • Third-party administrators
  • Employers
  • Government agencies
  • Other qualified referring organizations

Link to Dr. Silva’s answers to Frequently Asked Questions.

To discuss an IME referral or determine whether a case falls within Dr. Silva’s areas of expertise:

Request a Consultation