Neuropsychological, Pre-Bariatric Surgery, and Forensic Testing | Dr. Emily Blegen - Board-Certified

Neuropsychological Testing

In addition to Alzheimer’s-focused evaluations, I provide comprehensive neuropsychological assessments for a wide range of cognitive and neurological conditions. These include other forms of dementia, mild cognitive impairment, ADHD, and conditions such as Huntington’s disease, among others. Each evaluation is tailored to the individual and designed to clarify diagnosis, understand strengths and weaknesses, and guide personalized recommendations for treatment, planning, and support.

Bariatric Pre-Surgery Testing

Individuals are often referred for a “behavioral health” or “mental health” evaluation prior to bariatric surgery. This evaluation may be required by your insurance provider, your surgical team, or both, and is also designed to support long-term weight loss success and reduce the risk of negative surgical outcomes. The process primarily involves structured interviews and standardized questionnaires.

These evaluations can be completed via secure video in South Dakota and participating PSYPACT states (see https://psypact.gov/ for current eligibility).

Forensic Cases

Dr. Blegen provides forensic neuropsychological evaluation and consultation in civil or legal matters, including personal injury, guardianship, and testamentary capacity cases. No technicians or students are used.

Important: Forensic evaluations are distinct from clinical assessments. They are conducted for legal purposes, cannot be submitted to insurance, and differ from evaluations done for personal health or clinical care.

*A retainer from the attorney is required to schedule services—11 hours ($4,400) for evaluations and 3 hours ($1,200) for consultations.

*Evaluation services are billed at $400 per hour (typically taking 14-25 hours to complete; very complex evaluations can take 30+ hours). *Court testimony or depositions are billed at $750 per hour (4-hour minimum). *Travel and cancellation fees are outlined in the retainer.

*Forensic evaluations are scheduled by an attorney through direct contact with Dr. Blegen.

*All conclusions are provided independently with no guarantee they will favor the retaining party.