Daniel Polonsky, Psy.D. — Licensed Clinical Psychologist

What inspired you to become a clinical psychologist, and how did your journey lead you here?

My journey into clinical psychology began when I was in high school and expressed interest in understanding human behavior and what drives our motivations and decision making. Around this time, I also developed an interest in medicine and disease pathology. In my undergraduate studies I combined my interests and studied brain and behavioral sciences which integrated psychology, biology, and neuroscience. It was then that I also began to research neuroimmunology, epilepsy, and memory. These collective moments solidified my interest in pursuing clinical psychology. In my graduate and professional work, I specialized in neuropsychology, a subspecialty within psychology that bridges the gap between mental and medical health. Being able to understand and assist patients from both perspectives has been one of the most pertinent aspects of my work. It allows patients to understand themselves at a deeper level and provide clarity and a sense of agency. In addition, this important work that we do as healthcare providers continues to allow me to pursue my interests in both fields.    

How do neuropsychological evaluations help inform treatment planning or improve client outcomes? 

Neuropsychological evaluations inform treatment planning by providing diagnostic clarity and structured tailored treatment. This is important as our cognitive functioning, medical conditions, and emotions are all interrelated and often present with overlapping symptoms. It can then very quickly become overwhelming to discern what might be causing difficulties in our personal and social lives, education, and vocation. A neuropsychological evaluation allows for a clearer indication of what might be causing current cognitive impairment and psychological distress. A thorough neuropsychological evaluation evaluates for patterns of cognitive and emotional functioning which then can be mapped to a neurodevelopmental or neurodegenerative disorder, an emotional condition, or an artifact of a medical condition or treatment. With this clarity, specific therapies and recommendations are provided to allow patients to feel empowered with a clear understanding of what is going on and a direction on how to improve their circumstance and receive the support they need. 

How do you approach making clients feel comfortable and supported during what can be a lengthy or stressful evaluation?

Neuropsychological and psychological evaluations can, at times, be overwhelming and stressful experiences. It is important that patients feel prepared and at ease, as after all, the aim is to provide clarity and assistance. Fortunately, there are several steps that we as mental health providers can take to ensure our patients feel supported, heard, and understood. The first step is to walk patients through the evaluation process before it begins and to make sure that we are in alignment with our goals for the evaluation. These evaluations are tailored to specific concerns each patient has. The next step is to share what the evaluation process looks like. During the evaluation, I ensure there are adequate opportunities to take breaks, have discussions, and truly take the time to listen. After the evaluation, during the feedback appointment, helping patients navigate the data and its real-world implications, as well as making sense of a diagnosis and treatment plan allows for patients to have a sense of agency over what they are managing. Outlining and walking patients through the clear measurable ways to address their presenting concern facilitates leading the life they want. It is also important to follow up with patients after the feedback session and check-in to see if any recommendations or accommodations should be modified and monitor any changes as they arise. This way, there is continuity in care. Also important is that through this entire process, reaching out to others involved in their care is imperative as our work becomes most effective when there is clarity and coordination in treatment.   

What has been the most meaningful or rewarding part of your work so far? 

Although I consider every aspect of this work rewarding and meaningful, there are three areas that stand out in particular. The first happens before and during the evaluation, and that is helping patients organize and process their concerns. Life can be stressful and organizing and managing the various mental and biological processes that take place can be difficult. Helping patients manage this overwhelm allows them to feel motivated to seek treatment and to feel heard and understood. The second is being able to provide diagnostic clarity. Often, the unknown is anxiety provoking. With clarity comes understanding and taking action! The third is witnessing both via checking in with my neuropsychology patients and overtime with my therapy patients, the positive growth and improved management of their presenting concerns and conditions. Knowing that in real time patients are feeling more in control over their well-being and have a renewed sense of optimism is a feeling that never gets old. 

What are some common challenges your clients face, and how do you help them navigate those? 

Unfortunately, issues and challenges in managing our healthcare is something we all must face wherever we are. Most commonly, my patients struggle with receiving accommodations and recommendations. Although our evaluations and treatment plans include specific supports, it may not always be easily obtained, and taking the first step is often the hardest. I do my best to advocate for my patient’s needs and participate in school meetings, connect with specific providers who may be helpful, and routinely check-in with my patient’s well-being so they never feel lost. I also spend time researching numerous resources that exist both in Chicago and in the surrounding towns and suburbs that offer the specific services my patients may need and ensure that they are accessible. 

Outside of your professional work, what are some of your hobbies or interests? 

Outside of my professional work, there are a few ways I enjoy relaxing and unwinding. On sunny days I enjoy golfing and spending time outside with my standard schnauzer, Darwin. On cold and gloomy days, I enjoy going to the Art Institute of Chicago, The Chicago Symphony Orchestra, and winding down with either a good film or history book. Lately, I have been learning about mechanical watch making. I also enjoy seeing friends and family and traveling when possible.  

 What’s a fun or unexpected fact about you that your colleagues or clients might not know? 

This is a great question! Typically, I am an open book but perhaps not everyone knows that I am a classical cellist and former pianist.