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

Neuropsychological Testing

Typically, this testing is looking at memory, attention, language, intellectual function, problem-solving, processing speed, behavior, mood, or other functions. This testing is used to diagnose and manage conditions like Alzheimer's disease, dementia, tumors, stroke, mild cognitive impairment, brain injury, ADHD, toxic chemical exposure, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, multiple sclerosis, and others. We also offer comprehensive psychological assessments to guide accurate diagnosis and recommendations.

Bariatric Pre-Surgery Testing

Folks are often referred to complete a "behavioral health" or "mental health" evaluation before a bariatric surgery. The reasons: (1) this evaluation might be required by your insurance company, your surgical team, or both (2) to increase likelihood of long-term weight-loss success and reduce risk of negative surgical outcomes. Most of this testing is question-and-answer and filling out forms.

*This evaluation can be done over video in SD, just let Dr. Emily know you are interested.

With a Board-Certified Neuropsychologist
For Adults (18+)

Give us a call and we will talk about when you are available and what timeline you are looking for. You can usually expect the report within 1-2 weeks. Results can be discussed at a feedback appointment, but you always will get access to the report regardless.

We currently accept Wellmark / Blue Cross Blue Shield, Sanford, and Avera (but not Avera Direct HMO) insurance. We plan to add Medicare and Additional Insurance Plans to our panel starting Spring 2026. Since clinical evaluations typically cost between $1,500 to $3,000, insurance is a significant savings. We work with you to provide you with a cost estimate of services up front. If we are not paneled with your insurance at this time, then we will discuss a payment plan that may work for you, and at the end of the assessment, you are provided a specialized receipt (called a "superbill") that you may send to your insurance for potential reimbursement. In that case, you can choose to contact your insurance ahead of time and ask about "out of network coverage" for the evaluation, how you can submit a claim with a receipt/superbill, and how much you would pay. Dr. Emily's NPI# is 1902203490.

You will be asked to complete an information packet ahead of your appointment. Your appointment typically includes an interview lasting about 1 to 1.5 hours and then testing that usually takes 1-5 hours. Testing is a non-invasive process using a variety of written and verbal tasks that are completed while seated at a table. These tests can be paper-and-pencil and/or computerized.

Shorter Wait Times

Payment & Insurance

What to Expect

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.