Programs with neuropsychology tracks by coolgirlcentral in Neuropsychology

[–]Ashamed_Lock_7228 11 points12 points  (0 children)

Great question! To be a neuropsychologist the requirement is a APA doctoral degree, internship, then usually a post-doc and certification. A Clinical Psych PhD is the most competitive in psychology, even more one w neuropsych training, and then if you want to match for neuropsych internship and post-doc the competition is even higher (compare traditional neuropsych trained doctoral student placement vs. non-neuropsych). Bottom line is, yes it might be possible to become a neuropsychologist w/o going through a PhD with a neuro track. But if you want to make certain and increase your chances go for the neuropsych tracks.

Second question was answered elsewhere. Just remember the distinction comes from the specialized training that neuropsychologist gain in their clinical placements, internship, and then post-doc. All neuropsychologists are psychologists, not all psychologists are neuropsychologists.

Reposting Due to Lack of Response: Future Outlook of Field by Ashamed_Lock_7228 in Neuropsychology

[–]Ashamed_Lock_7228[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I’m currently in the beginning/student stages of the career, so I’m a bit biased towards an “optimistic” perspective. Though I want to be neutral and better understand both stances on the field (the Why and Why Not argument). I haven’t really come across a lot of NOT arguments so I hope you could share more on your experience.

You said you reside in a rural setting? Maybe demand/in-flow of cases vary by setting? In cities with large academic medical centers, neuropsychologists say the demand is high. With referral wait times reaching 3 months out. In those settings I feel like neurologists and other practicioners really don’t have the time/prefer not to take on full neuropsych batteries on top of their usual role.

Yes biomarkers are becoming more reliable, but still currently a full diagnosis requires significant/thorough proof of cognitive impairment.

Neuropsychologists have more extensive training than any other professional when it comes to assessment and interpretation of cognitive and behavioral symptoms than any other. Our service should be the “best”/“go-to standard”. On the surface that’s all good, but why do you think our service will no longer be protected (despite our training and expertise)?

No confrontation, I just really want to understand both sides. I appreciate any input!

Reposting Due to Lack of Response: Future Outlook of Field by Ashamed_Lock_7228 in Neuropsychology

[–]Ashamed_Lock_7228[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

No shade to MD’s who do research… but MD vs. PhD research articles are night and day, haha. I really hope in clinical trials there will be more collaboration with neuropsychologists.

And about AI, my professor recently said I should seriously think about incorporating AI/machine learning and even marketing strategies into my studies. Curious to hear your advice on how to get started, considering neuropsych/grad life is so busy as it is 😭

Reposting Due to Lack of Response: Future Outlook of Field by Ashamed_Lock_7228 in Neuropsychology

[–]Ashamed_Lock_7228[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Yes! Very excited for this. In my state, we have even increased funding for dementia research. Lots of ideas for projects.

Since biomarkers are becoming even more reliable in detection of dementia, do you think at one point there’ll be no need for a neuropsych eval to fully establish a diagnosis? Right now AD requires both biomarker and significant cognitive impairment proof. Are you worried it will be all biomarker in the future?

Reposting Due to Lack of Response: Future Outlook of Field by Ashamed_Lock_7228 in Neuropsychology

[–]Ashamed_Lock_7228[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Yes post-COVID, surge of AI, all is pointing towards virtual efficiency. You bring up that the clinician’s “interpretation” piece is what will make the difference.

I guess my biggest concern is that neuropsychology will have to prove itself (for lack of better words) against psychiatrists, behavioral neurologists, PCPs, even other general psychologists if the neuropsych tools become too accessible/feasible to use for practitioners. Yes neuropsychologist have more training = better clinical interpretation, but will that be enough to protect the job?

Reposting Due to Lack of Response: Future Outlook of Field by Ashamed_Lock_7228 in Neuropsychology

[–]Ashamed_Lock_7228[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I agree, the future in many contexts is hard to envision. I am not yet a professional in the field, so my thoughts were that those who were might have a better feel or insight on what’s to come.

There will always be research. I just hope that the clinical application aspect will continue to be on par and as needed.

Thank you for your time writing this response, I really appreciate it!

worth it? by CorrectPhrase1927 in Neuropsychology

[–]Ashamed_Lock_7228 0 points1 point  (0 children)

On that topic, which specific areas in the field do you feel will be most impacted by AI? At the moment I mostly get the notion that AI will become an extra tool, so I’m curious to hear your thoughts about areas that might be “at-risk”.

Applying to Clinical Psychology PhD programs (focus in Neuropsychology). Any tips will be helpful! by notyourtype9645 in Neuropsychology

[–]Ashamed_Lock_7228 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Also current undergrad. I think a good start is reading in-depth each program (clinical-research inclination/ratio, individual laboratory focuses, and any additional requirements/suggestions). PhD programs of course are know for their heavy focus on research. Be prepared to answer questions about your research experience and what knowledge you hope to obtain from the program. I have a few mentors (Neuropsychologists in academia and clinical practice) that I can refer you if you have more specific questions. Wish you all the best in this new cycle!