Opinion ID: 3013796
Heading Depth: 3
Heading Rank: 4

Heading: Dr. Smith-Seemiller

Text: In June 1994, Dr. Laura Smith-Seemiller of the Allegheny Neuropsychiatric Institute found gains in Leech’s oral word fluency, sequence and memory functioning. She taught Leech cognitive strategies involving checklists and self-instructional clues which Leech found “beneficial.” Dr. Smith-Seemiller concluded that Leech had “experienc[ed] significant cognitive impairment,” with patterns of difficulty similar to those found in August 1993. Tr. 481, 484. She elaborated in a letter to Leech’s attorney, noting Leech’s problems in learning, memory, information processing speed, and visual spacial memory. She opined that Leech would have difficulty in social situations, evaluating a client’s situation, and making appropriate decisions. She noted that he tended to be forgetful and needed to refer back to his notes. She doubted that he could put facts together to make appropriate decisions and file reports in a timely manner. She also had concerns about his capacity to 5 interpret complex situations necessary to counsel parolees accurately. She concluded that “although Mr. Leech’s deficits are mild, I see them as having a significant effect on his ability to perform job related duties.” Tr. 489. In January 1995, Leech indicated that his progress had “plateaued,” but that, despite residual deficits, he was “satisfied.” Tr. 348. He felt “much better” in October 1995 and his mood was stable, his sleep and appetite were good, and he remained busy. He benefitted from Ritalin. In December 1995, he reported reading often to maintain his skills. He was sometimes irritable, but better at “catching himself” before acting inappropriately.