Dr. Dowell – Background

Dr. Richard Dowell

Dr. Richard Dowell received his Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and Biology from Dickinson College in 1979, his Master’s Degree in Psychology from The College of William and Mary in 1982 and his Doctoral Degree in Clinical Neuropsychology from the University of Houston in 1986. He completed internships with Baylor College of Medicine – Department of Neurology and M.D. Anderson Hospital and Tumor Institute – Department of Pediatrics before returning to his home are of central Pennsylvania. From 1987 – 2004, Dr. Dowell was employed as a Clinical Neuropsychologist with Susquehanna Health System. In March 2004, “Neuropsychological Services” was launched at Evangelical Community Hospital in response to identified gaps in services and community needs.

Neuropsychological Evaluations

Since 1986 , Dr. Dowell has completed neuropsychological evaluations among over 5000 patients. Neuropsychological Services currently completes consultations among over 300 – 400 children/adolescents each year presenting with a variety of symptoms/problems including features of attention deficit hyperactivity disorders, learning disabilities, behavioral disorders (i.e., oppositional defiant disorder, conduct disorder, etc.), pervasive developmental disabilities (i.e., autism, Asperger’s Syndrome), post-traumatic stress disorders, neglect/deprivation, reactive attachment disorders and other adjustment disorders. He has served as an expert witness within the county and federal court systems throughout Pennsylvania and New Jersey and testified in front of the State Department of Education.

In addition, Dr. Dowell routinely provides comprehensive neuropsychological evaluations among adults presenting with a wide range of neurologic-based disorders including closed head injury, post-concussional syndrome, whiplash injury, headaches, post-traumatic stress disorders, treatment resistant anxiety and depressive disorders and learning disabilities. Dr. Dowell has served as an expert witness within the county and federal court systems including civil (i.e., motor vehicle accident, work-related injury, etc.) and criminal (i.e., death penalty evaluations, competency assessments, etc.) cases.

Within the geriatric population, Dr. Dowell has provided physician-referred evaluations to assist in the diagnosis and treatment of memory disorders, suspected Alzheimer’s Disease, stroke, head trauma, increased intracranial pressure and generalized medical disorders. Evaluation and treatment services have been provided within home, nursing home and community settings. In his role as consultant to several Area Agencies on Aging, Dr. Dowell has provided evaluations and testified as an expert witness on issues related to competency (i.e., drive, reside alone, complete a will, etc.) and capacity. He also has provided state-wide training seminars to Area Agencies on Aging staff.