The Cognitive Division staff consists of Stavra Romas, MD, a board certified behavioral neurologist, and Karen Loops, Psy.D., a clinical neuropsychologist with extensive training in the effects of MS on cognitive functioning. 

An estimated 45% to 65% of all people with MS experience problems with memory, attention, word finding, processing speed or other cognitive functions.  These difficulties may be particularly distressing because they are symptoms that nobody sees.  Our goal is to provide all patients at the IMSMP with some understanding of their current cognitive function as well as identify individuals who would benefit from more extensive cognitive evaluation and therapy. 

Neurobehavioral Screening Evaluation

All new patients at the IMSMP should undergo a neurobehavioral screening evaluation with Dr. Romas.  This screening evaluation is designed to briefly assess the basic cognitive functions most often disrupted in patients with MS, including memory, language, attention, and processing speed.  During the evaluation, Dr. Romas will also review factors that may affect cognition, such as stress, mood, fatigue, sleep problems and medications, and provide recommendations to maximize current functioning.  If cognitive declines are noted or suspected, the patient may be referred for a comprehensive neuropsychological evaluation. 

Comprehensive Neuropsychological Evaluation

This in-depth testing, conducted by Dr. Loops, helps determine more specifically what areas of cognition have been affected and their impact on a person's daily living.  It consists of a series of standardized tests that measure cognitive functions, including: memory/learning, processing speed, attention/concentration, visual spatial abilities, problem solving and conceptualization.  Results of neuropsychological evaluation may help with treatment planning, decisions regarding vocation or disability determination.  Test results are also useful in assessing one's potential to benefit from cognitive rehabilitation or to evaluate progress during treatment.

Cognitive Rehabilitation

The purpose of cognitive testing is to identify cognitive changes, advise a patient on their nature and extent, and provide recommendations to improve quality of life.  The goal of cognitive rehabilitation is to bolster specific cognitive capacities that are weak and also to teach compensatory strategies.  For some patients, this may take the form of further sessions designed to help patients develop strategies to improve daily function.  Sessions will incorporate both a structured lesson plan designed to focus on a particular area of cognition (ie memory), and also take into account each person's unique home and work circumstances.