A pediatric neuropsychologist is a trained professional who assists children and adolescents with behavioral, developmental, and emotional problems. Clinical evaluations of young patients are conducted a professional who reviews their medical histories and assesses their behaviors and responses to diagnostic questionnaires. The results of evaluations are used to determine whether or not children would benefit from medication or additional counseling. Children’s hospitals, rehabilitation centers, mental health clinics, and private practices are all places where pediatric neuropsychologists work.
Neuropsychology is distinct in that it combines traditional cognitive and behavioral psychology principles with empirical medical knowledge of the brain. Most neuropsychologists are trained to interpret brain scans such as computerized tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to look for areas of possible injury or cognitive deficits. The results of CT and MRI scans assist them in determining the underlying causes of a variety of disorders, such as speech difficulties, autism, and various degrees and types of mental retardation.
When conducting evaluations and interpreting imaging results, a pediatric neuropsychologist draws on his or her knowledge of brain development. In terms of size, shape, and makeup, a young child’s brain differs significantly from that of an adult. A pediatric neuropsychologist is knowledgeable about how the developing brain forms new electrical and chemical connections, as well as how different disorders can affect this process.
When a pediatric neuropsychologist meets with a new patient, he or she will usually perform a series of diagnostic tests, which may include reading and puzzle-solving exercises, to assess his or her cognitive abilities. To learn more about the symptoms, the professional may interview the child and his or her parents and compare their findings to information from medical records. The neuropsychologist may prescribe medications, schedule psychotherapy sessions, or suggest different home and school arrangements depending on the type and scope of problems a child is experiencing. Although some neuropsychologists provide counseling services, the majority prefer to refer patients to other professionals.
To work as a pediatric neuropsychologist, you’ll need a Ph.D. in psychology or a doctorate in medicine, as well as a clinical internship and passing a licensing exam. To ensure that an individual is fully prepared to handle the responsibilities of the position, extensive education and training is required. Before working independently, new professionals are usually required to practice for up to two years under the supervision of experienced neuropsychologists. A respected pediatric neuropsychologist with experience in the field may be able to advance to the position of senior consultant at a hospital or even open his or her own practice.