What is Neuropsychology?
You may be wondering what a Neuropsychologist does or why you or your child would benefit from a Neuropsychological examination. The purpose of a Neuropsychological evaluation is to objectively/scientifically determine the individual’s cognitive strengths and weaknesses, ascertain any psychological, educational or neurobehavioral diagnoses, and offer recommendations as to intervention, treatment, and/or educational programming, as may be warranted. Neuropsychological evaluations are utilized to diagnose learning disorders, developmental disabilties, memory or other cognitive problems as well as emotional or psychiatric disorders (i.e., depression, anxiety, Bipolar disorder, etc).
Neuropsychology integrates neurology and psychology into one field. A Neuropsychologist is specially trained to evaluate brain-behavior relationships. He/she has completed broad coursework and training in the field of psychology in addition to specialty training in neuropsychology earning a Ph.D. After graduation, a two-year post-doctoral fellowship in Neuropsychology is completed to provide experience in working with neurological/neurosurgery patients in an academic medical atmosphere.
It is important to seek out a Board Certified Neuropsychologist because Board Certification demonstrates that the specialist has the knowledge, skill, and experience to offer the highest quality of care in the field. Some psychologists may provide testing but they may not be specially trained in interpretation of Neuropsychological measures or the specific effects of neurocognitive disorders. To assure the Neuropsychologist has the level of expertise to provide you and your family with the most professional care possible it is important to look for the letters “ABPP” or “ABCN” (ABPP-CN) after a Neuropsychologist’s name.
For more information or to find a Neuropsychologist go to www.npanj.com