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Neuropsychologists

Apply theories and principles of neuropsychology to evaluate and diagnose disorders of higher cerebral functioning, often in research and medical settings. Study the human brain and the effect of physiological states on human cognition and behavior. May formulate and administer programs of treatment.

What you’d do

  • Conduct neuropsychological evaluations such as assessments of intelligence, academic ability, attention, concentration, sensorimotor function, language, learning, and memory.
  • Write or prepare detailed clinical neuropsychological reports, using data from psychological or neuropsychological tests, self-report measures, rating scales, direct observations, or interviews.
  • Interview patients to obtain comprehensive medical histories.
  • Diagnose and treat conditions involving injury to the central nervous system, such as cerebrovascular accidents, neoplasms, infectious or inflammatory diseases, degenerative diseases, head traumas, demyelinating diseases, and various forms of dementing illnesses.
  • Establish neurobehavioral baseline measures for monitoring progressive cerebral disease or recovery.
  • Provide education or counseling to individuals and families.
  • Diagnose and treat pediatric populations for conditions such as learning disabilities with developmental or organic bases.
  • Read current literature, talk with colleagues, and participate in professional organizations or conferences to keep abreast of developments in neuropsychology.

Skills that matter

  • Active Listening
  • Reading Comprehension
  • Writing
  • Critical Thinking
  • Judgment and Decision Making
  • Speaking

How to get there

Extensive preparation: most need graduate school, such as a master's degree or higher

Also called

  • Board Certified Neuropsychologist
  • Neuropsychologist
  • Pediatric Neuropsychologist
  • Staff Psychologist
  • Aviation Neuropsychologist
  • Child and Adolescent Neuropsychologist

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