Neuropsychologist
A neuropsychologist is a specialized psychologist who focuses on diagnosing and treating patients with neuropsychological issues, which often stem from brain injuries, disorders, or diseases. Their work involves examining patients to identify behavioral and cognitive problems caused by conditions like Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, and strokes. They utilize a variety of assessment tools, including neuropsychological tests and neuroimaging techniques, to understand patients' brain functions and devise effective treatment plans. Neuropsychologists may work in private practices or healthcare facilities, collaborating closely with other medical professionals to provide comprehensive care.
To pursue a career in neuropsychology, individuals typically need a doctoral degree in psychology or a related field, along with practical training through internships or residencies. The profession emphasizes the importance of continuous education, as neuropsychologists must stay informed about the latest research and treatment methods. This role requires strong interpersonal skills, as neuropsychologists frequently engage with patients of all ages, ranging from children with developmental disabilities to older adults with dementia. Overall, neuropsychologists play a crucial role in understanding the complex relationship between the brain and behavior, contributing to the well-being of their patients through targeted therapies and interventions.
Neuropsychologist
Snapshot
Career Cluster(s): Education & Training, Health Science
Interests: Neurology, psychology, working with sick or injured people
Earnings (Yearly Median): $92,740 per year $44.59 per hour
Employment & Outlook: 6% (Faster than average)
Entry-Level Education Doctoral degree
Related Work Experience None
On-the-job Training Internship/residency
Overview
Sphere of Work. Neuropsychologists are psychologists who diagnose and treat patients with neuropsychological problems. These problems include behavioral and cognitive issues that affect the brain. Neuropsychologists observe and perform tests on patients to properly diagnose issues caused by brain injuries, disorders, or diseases. Common causes of these issues include Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, and strokes. Neuropsychologists use their knowledge and observational ability to find the best way to treat the problem, often working closely with physicians and other medical professionals.
Work Environment. Neuropsychologists can work independently or as part of a healthcare facility. Those in private practice perform research and work strictly with clients and patients. They can make their own schedules. Neuropsychologists in healthcare facilities communicate and collaborate with other medical professionals, physicians, and social workers. Usually, neuropsychologists work in an office or a sterile medical environment, such as a hospital or rehabilitation center.
Occupation Interest. Neuropsychologists come from a wide range of educational backgrounds, but most have a degree in some form of neurology or psychology. They must be sympathetic and persistent in handling patients suffering from a disease, disorder, or injury. Neuropsychologists understand that they must continue their education and training throughout their career. They are typically very personable and excellent problem solvers who know how to reach the best possible conclusion.
A Day in the Life—Duties and Responsibilities. Typically, neuropsychologists spend the majority of their day working closely with patients. Their primary responsibilities involve examining, testing, diagnosing, and treating patients suffering from neurological disorders, diseases, or injuries. This process involves similar duties that recur often, but since each patient is different, a neuropsychologist must treat each case as unique. While examining a patient, a neuropsychologist will look at the patient’s history and, through observation and assessment, decide what further test to perform.
Neuropsychological tests help neuropsychologists diagnose a patient through a series of specifically designed tasks that measure a particular brain function, such as concentration, language, or memory. Neuropsychologists also use neuroimaging to examine patients. This involves the use of various forms of computer-aided imaging to capture images of the structure and function of a patient’s brain.
Neuropsychologists work with a broad range of patients of all ages, including children with an early developmental disability and older adult patients struggling with dementia. If the patient has a neurological disorder, the neuropsychologist works to identify the root of the problem and helps provide psychotherapy, behavior therapy, or other forms of therapy. During therapy and treatment, they monitor the patient’s progress.
Neuropsychologists should keep up with current literature and research in their field. Many also perform research and publish clinical neuropsychological reports themselves.
Work Environment
Immediate Physical Environment. Neuropsychologists work in private practices or other healthcare facilities, such as hospitals or rehabilitation centers. These facilities are generally sterile and very well-lit. Some parts of the facilities may contain complex medical equipment, while other areas may have a more formal office environment.
Human Environment. Neuropsychologists communicate and collaborate with various patients, clients, and other medical professionals, including psychologists, therapists, and physicians. Examining and diagnosing patients requires a neuropsychologist to be in frequent close contact.
Technological Environment. Neuropsychologists utilize an assortment of technologies in their profession. Standardized neurological tests are used to link specific neurocognitive processes. These tests include the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS), the Halstead-Reitan Neuropsychological Battery, and the Benton Visual Retention Test. Neuropsychologists also use magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and other computer-aided imaging to scan patients' brain structure and function. Such equipment is usually operated by technicians. Essential tools such as stethoscopes and digital thermometers are also used.
Education, Training, and Advancement
High School/Secondary. A high school diploma or an equivalent is required for postsecondary education. High schools typically offer several basic and advanced courses that can benefit students interested in neuropsychology, such as chemistry, psychology, and biology. Students planning on pursuing a career as a neuropsychologist should do as well as they can on their SAT to get into a reputable college.
Postsecondary. Neuropsychologists are typically required to possess a doctoral degree. Most neuropsychologists receive their undergraduate degree in applied behavior analysis, cognitive psychology, applied psychology, or other related fields. If a neuropsychologist wishes to specialize in a specific area of the profession, further education may be necessary. Many students volunteer at a local health facility or rehabilitation center while completing their undergraduate degree. This is a great way to learn from experienced professionals in the field.
Most master’s programs do not require an undergraduate degree in a psychology-related field. The programs are competitive, however, so students should be sure they have completed some coursework in psychology. Master’s degree programs typically include research design, applied psychology, and industrial-organizational psychology courses. Individuals with a master’s degree in psychology can work as psychological assistants in clinical, counseling, or research locations.
To be accepted in a doctoral program, most schools require an individual to have a master’s degree in psychology. Neuropsychologists can get their Ph.D. or a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) degree. Completing a comprehensive exam and an original research dissertation completes the Ph.D. in psychology. In a clinical or health-service setting, students sometimes must complete a one-year internship to get their Ph.D. Students going for their PsyD often must complete comprehensive exams and perform practical work rather than write a dissertation.
Related Occupations
Bibliography
“Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2023: 19-3039 Psychologists, All Other.” Occupational Employment Statistics. Bureau of Labor Statistics, US Department of Labor, 3 Apr. 2024, www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes193039.htm. Accessed 23 Aug. 2024.
“Psychologists.” Occupational Outlook Handbook. Bureau of Labor Statistics, US Department of Labor, 17 Apr. 2024, www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/psychologists.htm. Accessed 23 Aug. 2024.