Do you know the difference between a neuropsychologist and a psychologist? The Living with Parkinson's Tip of the Day
It is understandable that people with Parkinson’s and family members may get confused as to the difference between neuropsychologists and counseling psychologists.
In fact, many doctors and health care professionals may not appreciate the importance of the difference.
Neuropsychologists evaluate and treat people with possible neurological diseases. In their role as a neuropsychologist they typically do not provide one on one multi-week counseling but they may provide recommendations and work with a team to facilitate medication or behavioral treatment(s).
Some of the areas a neuropsychologist can be helpful clarifying include:
Memory problems
Mood issues
Learning issues
Changes in the ability to function in one’s life
A neuropsychologist can help determine or narrow the specific diagnosis.
A neuropsychologist can repeat testing every year or two to follow declines/improvements and make treatment recommendations.
Counseling Psychology is different. These are the things a counseling psychologist may address:
Facilitating personal and interpersonal functioning
Help with emotional, social, vocational, educational, health-related, developmental, and organizational issues.
Culturally-sensitive practices to facilitate well-being
Address and resolve crises
Improve functioning in everyday life
