Pediatric Neuropsychology - Definition

Definition

A pediatric neuropsychologist is a doctoral-level, licensed psychologist and health service provider of neuropsychological assessment, diagnosis, and intervention based upon the scientific study of developmental theory and behavior as it relates to normal and abnormal functioning of the developing central nervous system. Pediatric neuropsychologists demonstrate competence in the application of these principles to settings where children live, work, learn and play.

Most pediatric neuropsychologists have several years of post-doctoral training regarding developmental or acquired neuropathology in children. Pediatric neuropsychologists work in any setting where children with CNS dysfunction are treated. This includes: neurology, neurosurgery and psychiatry practices as well as in hospital and outpatient settings. In addition to assessing and treating children with medical disorders such as traumatic brain injury, brain tumors or epilepsy, pediatric neuropsychologists work with children who have Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), learning disabilities, intellectual and developmental disorders (mental retardation), autism, or Asperger's syndrome. Some may work in other settings, such as schools, and provide more traditional mental health services as well.

As is consistent with the current American Psychological Association's definition, "proficiencies can only be acquired through appropriate education and training focused quite specifically and intensively on defined content". Recommended core training requirements for pediatric neuropsychology includes:

1. Successful completion of systematic pre- and post-doctoral didactic and experiential training in developmental theory, neuropsychology and related neurosciences at a regionally accredited university;
2. Two or more years of appropriate supervised post-doctoral training, applying pediatric neuropsychological services in a clinical setting;
3. Demonstration of competency through training, experience and examination in the following core areas:
   1. Pediatric neurosciences
   2. Normal and abnormal psychological and neurological development
   3. Neuropsychological and neurological diagnostics
   4. Ethics and legal issues
   5. The application of research design and statistics to clinical practice
   6. Clinical and rehabilitative intervention techniques
   7. Consultation and supervisory practices
4. Possession of current licensure and/or certification to provide psychological services to the public by the laws of the state or province in which he or she practices.

As an emerging specialty of psychological practice, many practitioners in this area may vary in terms of their training. However, parents, schools, physicians and other consumers of pediatric neuropsychological services should carefully consider seeking a clinician with an organized training history such as that suggested above.