Neuropsychologists are experts in the field of brain function, and they work to understand how the brain works, how it develops and how it can be affected by injury, disease or other environmental factors. Becoming a neuropsychologist is a long journey that requires years of education, training and experience. In this article, we will explore how long it takes to become a neuropsychologist and the journey to become a brain expert.
The education of a neuropsychologist
The first step on the journey to become a neuropsychologist is to obtain a bachelor’s degree in psychology or a related field. This typically takes four years to complete. After completing a bachelor’s degree, the next step is to obtain a graduate degree in neuropsychology. There are several options for graduate degrees in this field.
Master’s degree in neuropsychology
Some students may choose to pursue a master’s degree in neuropsychology. This typically takes two years to complete and focuses on coursework in neuroscience, the anatomy of the brain and the psychology of behavior. Students will also have the opportunity to work in a clinical or research setting under the supervision of a licensed neuropsychologist.
Doctoral degree in neuropsychology
For those who want to become licensed neuropsychologists, a doctoral degree in neuropsychology is required. This typically takes between five and seven years to complete, and the coursework focuses on the same topics as a master’s degree program, but the curriculum is more extensive. Students in a doctoral program also complete a dissertation, which requires original research in the field of neuropsychology. This research is typically conducted under the supervision of a faculty member who is an expert in the field.
Clinical training of a neuropsychologist
After completing a graduate program, the next step to becoming a neuropsychologist is to complete a clinical training program. This typically takes two years and involves working in a clinical setting. During this time, students gain practical experience in administering and interpreting neuropsychological tests, diagnosing and treating neurocognitive disorders, and working with patients who have brain injuries or diseases.
Internship in neuropsychology
During the clinical training period, students may choose to complete an internship in neuropsychology. This typically takes a year and involves working in a clinical setting under the supervision of a licensed neuropsychologist. During this internship, students will have the opportunity to work directly with patients and gain hands-on experience in administering neuropsychological tests and interpreting the results.
Postdoctoral fellowship in neuropsychology
After completing the clinical training period and internship, students may choose to complete a postdoctoral fellowship in neuropsychology. This typically takes two years and provides students with additional training in research and clinical practice. During this time, students will work in a clinical setting under the supervision of a licensed neuropsychologist and will have the opportunity to conduct original research in the field of neuropsychology.
Licensing as a neuropsychologist
After completing the education and clinical training required to become a neuropsychologist, the next step is to become licensed. Each state has its own requirements for licensure, but in general, the requirements include completing the required education and clinical training, passing a licensure examination, and completing a specific number of supervised hours in a clinical setting.
Examination for professional practice in psychology
The Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) is a national examination that is required for licensure as a neuropsychologist in most states. The exam covers topics such as assessment, diagnosis and treatment of psychological disorders, and legal and ethical issues in psychology. Students must pass this examination before they can become licensed as a neuropsychologist.
Supervised hours
Most states require individuals seeking licensure as a neuropsychologist to complete a specific number of supervised hours in a clinical setting. This usually involves working under the supervision of a licensed neuropsychologist and gaining hands-on experience in administering neuropsychological tests and interpreting the results.
Conclusion
Becoming a neuropsychologist requires a significant amount of education, training and clinical experience. The journey to become a brain expert typically takes between seven and eleven years, depending on the level of education and clinical training required. However, the rewards of becoming a neuropsychologist are significant, as these professionals play a critical role in understanding and treating brain disorders and injuries.
Most common questions and their answers related to ‘How long does it take to become a neuropsychologist’
- How long does it take to become a neuropsychologist?
- The journey to become a neuropsychologist typically takes between seven and eleven years, depending on the level of education and clinical training required.
- What degrees are required to become a neuropsychologist?
- A bachelor’s degree in psychology or a related field, and a doctoral degree in neuropsychology.
- What type of clinical training is required?
- Clinical training typically involves completing an internship and a postdoctoral fellowship in neuropsychology.
- What is the licensure process for neuropsychologists?
- The licensure process involves completing the required education and clinical training, passing a licensure examination, and completing a specific number of supervised hours in a clinical setting.
References
- “Becoming a Neuropsychologist: A Complete Career Guide.” Psychology Degree Online, Psychology Degree Online, https://www.psychologydegreeonline.net/how-to-become-neuropsychologist.
- “Neuropsychologist: Education, Schooling, and Licensing.” Study.com, Study.com, https://study.com/articles/Neuropsychologist_Education_Schooling_and_Licensing.html.
- “What Is a Neuropsychologist and What Does One Do?” Verywell Mind, Verywell Mind, 16 Nov. 2020, https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-a-neuropsychologist-2795056.