What is a neuropsychologist and how does a neuropsychologist play a role in a brain injury patients care and recovery?
Neuropsychology is the study of the structure and the function of the brain as it relates to specific psychological processes and behavior. A neuropsychologist is a clinical psychologist whose work focuses on brain behavior relationships. A neuropsychologist conducts tests to determine post-accident intellectual ability and personality. They will review academic and employment records and other such documentation that indicates student and employee traits and characteristics prior to a brain injury accident. They also interview family, friends and acquaintances to further determine personality characteristics prior to the accident. The neuropsychologist then reviews post-accident employment and academic performance to determine whether there has been a negative impact due to the brain injury. Mild brain injury can cause wholly new injuries or aggravate pre-existing behavioral difficulties. Either one can have a significant detrimental impact on the quality of life. The role of the neur