What
Is a Neuropsychologist?
A neuropsychologist is a
physiologist who specializes in understanding the relationship between the
physical brain and behavior. The brain is extremely complex, and disorders
within the brain or nervous system can alter behavior and cognitive function. Neuropsychologists
have a doctorate in psychology and training in neuropsychology. Neuropsychology
is a psychological discipline that has developed out of our growing ability to
understand the brain. Clinical neuropsychologists work directly with individuals.
They provide assessments, consult with other professionals, and carry out
treatment. They are adept at carrying out batteries of traditional
psychological assessments. They are also very familiar with neurological tests
like MRIs.
Neuropsychologists can have various
specialized roles, from making assessments for insurance purposes to doing
forensic consultations. They may work as part of large, multidisciplinary
teams. The Association of Neuropsychology Students in Training lists the
following as possible work settings: VA hospitals, rehabilitation hospitals and
outpatient centers, neurology centers, the Federal Bureau of Prisons, and
private practice settings. Some neuropsychologists focus specifically on
pediatric populations; children may have a variety of conditions including
genetic disorders, brain tumors, or epilepsy. Neuropsychology also
entails the development of models and methods for understanding normal and
abnormal brain function.
What
Does a Neuropsychologist Do?
Neuropsychologists evaluate and treat
people with various types of nervous system disorders.
·
memory difficulties
·
mood disturbances
·
learning difficulties
·
nervous system dysfunction
If other doctors can’t identify the cause
of a condition, a neuropsychologist can help determine a diagnosis.
·
Stroke. A stroke can affect behavior, thinking, memory, and other brain
functions. An evaluation helps determine the degree of stroke impairment.
·
Parkinson’s disease. This type of progressive disorder can cause several neurological
problems. A neuropsychologist’s exam can provide a baseline in order to
determine disease progression and decreased function.
·
Alzheimer’s disease. Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia can interfere with
memory, personality, and cognitive abilities.
·
Traumatic brain injuries. Injuries to
the brain can cause a wide variety of symptoms. A neuropsychologist can help
determine how an injury affects functions like reasoning or problem solving
skills.
·
Learning disabilities. A neuropsychologist can help determine the type of learning
disorder in order to develop a treatment plan.
Typical
Neuropsychological Procedures
The nervous system is complex, so different
types of procedures are used to identify problems and treatment plans.
·
Neuropsychological
Evaluation
This evaluation
is an assessment of how your brain functions. Questions will ascertain your
ability to perform daily tasks, as well as identify memory issues, and mental
health concerns. The interview will also cover information on symptoms, medical
history, and medications you take.
·
Tests
An evaluation
includes different types of standardized tests. The tests measure many areas of
brain function, including memory and cognitive ability. Tests may also measure
personality, problem solving, and reasoning. Tests will also assess emotions
and personality.
·
Brain Scans
Brain scans,
such as computerized tomography scans (CT scans) or magnetic resonance imaging
(MRI), can help a neuropsychologist make a diagnosis.
Neuropsychological
Procedure Results
Evaluation and test results may help
determine the cause of a problem when other methods don’t work. Mild thinking
and memory problems may be subtle, but tests can identify even mild problems
with memory and cognitive abilities.
Neuropsychologists help develop a treatment
plan by understanding how the brain functions and how functioning relates to
behavior.
References
http://www.psychologist-license.com/types-of-psychologists/neuropsychologist.html#context/api/listings
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