The task of the neuropsychologist is to understand brain structures and systems and how they affect thinking and behavior. It is especially important for a neuropsychologist to understand what causes thinking problems when a patient has movement disorders such as Parkinson’s disease.
If you are interested in a neuropsychological career, it will take many years of college. So before you get started, review the important information below to help you decide if you want to work in this field.
The field of medicine is wide, including a number of specialties. For those interested in the human brain and human behavior, neuropsychology is an excellent field to consider. These medical professionals have a broad education and training to perform their work well. In this article, we explain what a neuropsychologist is, highlight the importance of neuropsychology, describe how to become a neuropsychologist, and offer advice on career development in the medical field.
What is neuropsychology?
Neuropsychology is the study of the brain, neurology, mind and behavior. This field is important for understanding the relationship between the brain and behavior.
Neuropsychology is a branch of psychology that studies the structures and functions of the brain and how they relate to personality, emotions, behavior, and mental health. Of particular interest to neuropsychologists is the field of neurological disorders, which includes traumatic brain injury, seizures, some sleep disorders, dizziness and dementia. By studying these disorders at the structural and neuronal levels, neurologists seek to improve the treatment and, consequently, the quality of life of people suffering from these conditions.
Neuropsychologists typically work more in research, development, and the scientific community than in the clinical and therapeutic settings, although collaboration between treatment professionals and leading scientists is critical to quality care.
ALSO CHECK: How to Become a Police Detective in 2021
Job description of a neuropsychologist
A neuropsychologist specializes in determining the difference in the brain compared to the norm for a patient who has had injuries, chronic diseases, cognitive deficits, or disorders. For example, trauma and diseases such as stroke, traumatic brain injury, Parkinsonism, and dementia can affect a person’s neurological, cognitive, and behavioral responses.
A neuropsychologist conducts and evaluates a variety of assessments to determine the difference in individuals compared to others of their age and / or gender. Assessments may include language assessments, mental exams, personality tests, and other cognitive tests. They also develop treatment plans, which may include medication, rehabilitation therapy, or surgery. These specialists are often called clinical neuropsychologists. Clinical neuropsychologists can work in many different health care settings, such as hospitals, clinics, and medical offices. Others choose to open a private practice or work as consultants.
Some neuropsychologists have chosen to work in private or public research institutions or universities. Here, they conduct research and research on neurology that can help the medical industry advance in understanding the brain and related behaviors. Neuropsychologists often need to work with other health professionals who can also treat the patient. Positive attitudes and empathy are also helpful, as these people need to help patients cope and empathize with their client’s struggles.
Skills needed to become a good neuropsychologist?
- Interpretation and analysis skills: Because they often collaborate with other health professionals, neuropsychologists should be able to gather and synthesize information from a variety of sources, combine it with their own findings, and choose the best solutions for their patients.
- Problem-solving skills: In addition, neuropsychologists must have outstanding problem-solving skills to evaluate treatment options, develop an effective treatment plan, and implement solutions appropriately.
- Critical thinking skills: although they can work with physicians, sometimes neuropsychologists have to make their own decisions about assessing and treating patients. Thus, they must be able to think logically and critically and make informed decisions in a short time.
- Communication skills: Neuropsychologists often have to convey important, complex information to patients, so they need to be able to speak clearly and clearly to ensure that their messages are easily perceived. They also need to have excellent listening skills so that they can understand their patients’ concerns and address them carefully.
- Writing and documenting skills: In addition to communicating with patients, neuropsychologists should write long and in-depth reports for a wide audience. They are also expected to keep good records of patients.
- Monitoring and awareness skills: Neuropsychologists should always be aware so that they can detect the problem early and prevent it from becoming a major complication.
Neuropsychologist training and education
Students interested in neuropsychology must first obtain a bachelor’s degree in psychology, biology, or medical school in order to be competitive and well-prepared for a doctorate in neuropsychology. Although there are several master’s degrees in psychology with an emphasis on neuropsychology, most students complete a doctoral program in neuropsychology or clinical neuropsychology, as practical work in psychology usually requires a doctorate.
How to Become a Mental Health Clinician | What They Do, Requirements, Training, Certificates & Salary
In these doctoral programs, students study brain function, brain anatomy, neurological trauma, and disease. Students also learn to perform and interpret tests that detect brain dysfunction and abnormalities. As part of your education, you will have an internship with practicing neuropsychologists who will monitor your work so that you can practice, gaining real experience under their watchful (and useful) eye.
How much does a Neuropsychologist earn?
The average annual salary of a neuropsychologist varies depending on the place and type of your workplace. For example, you are more likely to earn more if you work in science or technology, and you earn less if you work as a teacher.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), neuropsychologists (classified by BLS as psychologists, all others) received an average salary of $ 98,230 as of May 2019. Neuropsychologists working in specialty hospitals and general and medical surgical hospitals earned $ 92,610 and $ 92,560, respectively, while those working in psychiatric hospitals earned $ 73,000.
How long does it take to become a neuropsychologist?
To become a neuropsychologist, you need at least 10-15 years of study and training after high school. Board licensing requires professionals to complete a PhD or PhD and at least two years of practice. Programs are available nationwide, and there is one hybrid program that provides students with the flexibility of online courses, as well as some personal seminars and workshops.
How to become a neuropsychologist in 2021
To become a neuropsychologist, you must meet certain academic and licensing requirements. Follow these steps to earn your eligibility:
· Complete a bachelor’s degree
Getting a bachelor’s degree is the first step to becoming a neuropsychologist. In most cases, students who want to become neuropsychologists major in psychology or related fields. In the undergraduate psychology program, you will study neuroanatomy, brain and behavioral disorders, and psychological research. You can also attend specialized classes such as neuropsychology and neurology. After completing your bachelor’s degree, you may want to consider taking an internship or gaining some work experience to strengthen your skills.
· Earn a doctorate
Neuropsychologists must have an appropriate doctorate to apply for a license to practice. You can choose a master’s degree before you start applying for a doctoral program. This can help you gain specialized training and increase your chances of being accepted into a competitive doctoral program. Some doctoral programs only accept students who have earned a master’s degree.
ALSO CHECK: 12 Best Online Grant Writing Classes In 2021
A master’s degree in psychology usually lasts two years, while a doctoral program in neuropsychology can last three to five years. While you are earning your doctorate, you will need to complete a course in neuropsychology, complete an internship, and submit a research-based dissertation. You can take specialized courses such as childhood neuropsychological disorders, memory disorders and clinical methods.
· Take part in an internship
Internships are an integral part of the medical training and certification process. Together with your doctoral lecturers and career counselors, find an internship program that meets your needs and meets your long-term career goals. Most likely, you will choose whether you want to participate in a research-based neuropsychology internship or a clinical patient-centered neuropsychology internship. Whichever path you choose, make sure the internship meets the requirements set by the American Psychological Association or APA guidelines to help you obtain a license later.
· Get state licensing
In each state, neuropsychologists must obtain a state license before treating patients. Licensing requirements may vary by state, but most states require a PhD in an accredited psychology program, a set of passing scores in a psychology exam, and about 2,000 hours of supervised work experience. Because the licensing process may vary from state to state, you need to find out the exact requirements in your state. If you hold an academic position or specialize in research, you may not need to apply for a license.
· Get certifications
After obtaining a state license, you must retain your credentials to retain your right to practice. It is important to note that many states set continuing education requirements for license renewals. If you work in a professional organization, your employer can provide you with the opportunity for continuing education.
· Decide on a practice
Think about where you want to work as a neuropsychologist. Some doctors prefer a purely research career, often at a university or college, while others want to open a private practice or work in a hospital to receive patients. Think of your ideal job to help you narrow down your list of potential jobs.
· Submit documents for positions
Having decided on the ideal work environment, apply for positions that meet your needs. Many neuropsychologists use online resources, such as the Employment Network of the Psychological Sciences Association, to search for vacancies and fill out job applications. You can also consult with your professional network and internship advisors about possible employment opportunities.
