What is Neuropsychology?

Neuropsychology is a specialized branch of psychology that integrates neuroscience, cognitive functioning and psychology/behavior.

What is a neuropsychological evaluation?

A neuropsychological evaluation is a comprehensive examination of an individual’s cognitive, emotional and behavioral functioning. Many evaluations are conducted to assess for changes in the context of a medical event or condition.

How can a neuropsychologist assist my patient?

Neuropsychologists often work alongside neurologists, psychiatrists, internal medicine physicians, and physiatrists to identify if, how and why an or how an injury or medical condition is impacting brain functioning.

• A neuropsychological evaluation is a comprehensive assessment of an individual’s cognitive and psychological functioning.  The brain is responsible for all aspects of our thinking and cognition, and there are various factors, both medical and non-medical, that impact our everyday lives.  Neuropsychologists primarily assess aspects of attention, memory, executive functioning based on our knowledge of neuroanatomy, human behavior and empirically based testing.

Is a neuropsychologist a medical doctor?

• A neuropsychologist holds a doctorate in Psychology (Ph.D. or Psy.D.) while physicians hold a doctorate in medicine (M.D. or D.O.).
• According to the Houston Conference Guidelines, to become a neuropsychologist, one must have 1) a doctorate degree in psychology with an incurred one-year internshipspecialized training in neuropsychology 2) completion of a two-year post-doctoral residency in neuropsychology.

• Board certification through the American Board of Clinical Neuropsychology (ABCN), demonstrates the highest level of competency. Board certification requires completion of a two-year postdoctoral residency, followed by a lengthy evaluation practice including written exam, writing samples, ethical exam, and an in-person oral exam.While numbers have somewhat increased, a 2003 study showed that only 37% of those seeking board certification in neuropsychology have successfully passed the board certification process.

What type of training does a board certified neuropsychologist have? 

• A neuropsychologist’s knowledge base includes training in the following:

     - General psychology

     - Clinical psychology

     - Statistics/ Psychometrics

     - Assessment and Research

Morgan & Ricker, 2018

Most physicians must be board-certified to practice. Does my neuropsychologist need to be board-certified? 

• Board certification means that a psychologist has been examined and deemed competent in a formally recognized specialty.