What is a Clinical Neuropsychologist?
A clinical neuropsychologist is a professional within the field of psychology with special expertise in the applied science of brain-behavior relationships. Clinical neuropsychologists use and apply this knowledge in the assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and/or rehabilitation of patients across the lifespan with neurological, medical, neurodevelopmental, and psychiatric conditions, as well as other cognitive and learning disorders.
Training Required for a Clinical Neuropsychologist
- A doctoral degree in psychology from an accredited university training program.
- An internship, or its equivalent, in a clinically relevant area of professional psychology.
- The equivalent of two (full time) years of experience and specialized training, at least one of which is at the post-doctoral level, in the study and practice of clinical neuropsychology and related neurosciences. These two years include supervision by a clinical neuropsychologist.
- A license in his or her state or province to practice psychology and/or clinical neuropsychology independently, or is employed as a neuropsychologist by an exempt agency.
(Criteria from the National Academy of Neuropsychology)
