Pediatric neuropsychologists conduct clinical evaluations and provide counseling to children and adolescents. To help patients overcome a variety of disorders, they combine their medical knowledge of the physical brain with proven elements of cognitive psychology. To work as a pediatric neuropsychologist, one must first obtain a Ph.D., then complete a postdoctoral program and gain several years of supervised clinical experience. In addition, before working independently in mental health centers, hospitals, or private practices, many regions and countries require new professionals to pass licensing exams.
A person who wishes to pursue a career as a pediatric neuropsychologist should first enroll in a four-year university that is accredited. Although there are few colleges that offer bachelor’s degree programs in neuropsychology, a major in general psychology can provide adequate preparation. Advanced courses in cognitive, behavioral, abnormal, and child psychology may be most beneficial to a student. Additional statistics, biology, and chemistry classes are required to gain an understanding of lab research and study design. To gain practical experience in the field, many psychology undergraduates apply for internships or paid entry-level positions at mental health centers.
In most countries, a master’s degree is required to work as a pediatric neuropsychologist. A student can begin looking into schools that offer Ph.D. programs in neuropsychology or cognitive neuroscience as a junior or senior. Some schools place a greater emphasis on research, while others place a greater emphasis on clinical practitioner preparation. Either option can be beneficial in preparing for a career as a neuropsychologist, and the program chosen is largely determined the future professional’s goals. Most people who choose to specialize in pediatrics intend to provide counseling services, so clinical programs with internship opportunities are often more beneficial.
A neuropsychology Ph.D. program typically lasts three to four years, during which time students gain valuable classroom and laboratory experience. Following graduation, he or she is usually eligible to apply for a postdoctoral research fellowship or a clinical internship to gain more experience. An intern or fellow has the opportunity to learn about common techniques and protocols while working alongside experienced neuropsychologists. Under the supervision and guidance of mentors, he or she is usually allowed to work directly with patients.
To become a pediatric neuropsychologist, the specific postdoctoral training requirements vary, but most professionals must work for about two years before taking licensing exams. National governing boards, such as the American Board of Clinical Neuropsychology in the United States, typically administer tests. A professional can become a pediatric neuropsychologist with the proper credentials and begin practicing unsupervised in a variety of clinical settings.