Neuropsychologists and Clinical Neuropsychologists

Certification or Licensing

The American Board of Clinical Neuropsychology administers the certification examination for clinical neuropsychology. It is a specialty board of the American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP). The ABPP offers voluntary specialty certification in areas such as clinical psychology, clinical neuropsychology, and counseling, forensic, organizational and business, and school psychology. Requirements for certification include having a doctorate in psychology, professional experience, appropriate postdoctoral training, and the passing of an examination. Those who fulfill these requirements receive the designation of diplomate.

The National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) awards the nationally certified school psychologist designation to applicants who complete educational requirements and an internship, and pass an examination. Many states recognize the designation.

Neuropsychologists in independent practice or those providing any type of patient care, such as clinical, counseling, and school psychologists, must be licensed or certified by the state in which they practice. Neuropsychologists must complete one or more of the following to become licensed: a pre-doctoral or post-doctoral supervised experience, an internship, a residency program, or one to two years of professional experience. They must also pass an examination. Check with your state's licensing board for specific information. Also find information at the Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards Web site, https://www.asppb.net.