Neuropsychology- Karen Looney

NIBPS & PSI JOINT CAREERS EVENTClinical Neuropsychology : 

NIBPS & PSI JOINT CAREERS EVENTClinical Neuropsychology Dr. Karen Looney Principal Clinical Neuropsychologist St. Patrick’s Hospital Dublin 8 09/02/2008

What is Neuropsychology? : 

What is Neuropsychology? The study of the relationship between human brain function and behaviour (Kolb & Whishaw, 2003) Draws from anatomy, biology, biophysics, ethology, pharmacology, physiology, philosophy, cognitive science, psychology Distinct from neurology, neuroscience and psychology Clinical Neuropsychology: concerned with brain behaviour relations in clinical populations, in other works, brain behaviour dysfunctions

How do I become a Clinical Neuropsychologist? : 

How do I become a Clinical Neuropsychologist? Generally, those who practice as Clinical Neuropsychologists have completed an undergraduate degree in psychology, clinical training and have some additional expertise in the area, as demonstrated by working in a clinical neuropsychological setting under supervision for a number of years and possibly having pursued a further qualification. Further qualifications include the BPS DoN approved courses (Glasgow, Nottingham, London); a PhD or Masters in a neuropsychological topic. Guidelines for using the title Clinical Neuropsychologist in Ireland remain an issue.

Where can I study? : 

Where can I study? Institutions which have approved clinical training programmes. Additional expertise can be garnered by completing further studies as follows: Clinical Neuropsych PG Dip/MSc, University of Glasgow Clinical Neuropsych PG Dip/MSc, University of Nottingham Clinical Paediatric Neuropsych PG Dip/MSc, University of London

How long does it take? : 

How long does it take? Clinical training: 3 years Clinical neuropsych postgraduate qualification: 1-2 years Supervision: ongoing; generally considered to be a minimum of two years before assuming the title

Specific requirements / additional experience needed : 

Specific requirements / additional experience needed Demonstrable expertise in the area, as previously outlined

Day in the life… : 

Day in the life… Depends on context, but may include: Assessment, e.g. query effects of TBI, query dementia, query effects of alcohol abuse, monitor changes in cognitive functioning Intervention, e.g. cognitive rehab, working with families, consulting to other professionals, liasing with front line staff Professional activities, CPD, admin, service development, advocacy etc Teaching, e.g. clinical training programmes, other staff education etc Supervision of clinical psych trainees, and other students

Where do Clinical Neuropsychologists work? : 

Where do Clinical Neuropsychologists work? Rehabilitation Services, e.g. Headway National Rehabilitation Hospital General Hospitals, e.g. linking with Neurology Services, e.g. Beaumont Hospital Other, e.g. Adult mental health settings Memory clinic e.g. MIRA clinic St. James’

North/South Issues : 

North/South Issues Situation pertaining to the practice of Clinical Psychology between the North and South is relevant for Clinical Neuropsychology In addition, the Division of Neuropsychology within the BPS has established a standard of expertise which practitioners can voluntarily opt into: Practitioner Full Membership of the DoN. This requires three components: Knowledge Research Clinical Not compulsory in the UK, nor in Ireland, but sets a high standard and identifies expertise in the field

Salaries : 

Salaries Salary for Clinical and Counselling Psychologists applies Available on PSI website: http://www.psihq.org/members_payscales.asp