How To Become a Neuropsychology Technician: Step-by-Step Guide
Learn about the steps important to pursuing a career as a neuropsychology technician, including education, skills, salary and more.
A neuropsychology technician is a professional who works with patients who have neurological disorders. This can be a rewarding career for those who are interested in helping others and have a passion for the science of the brain. In this article, we discuss the responsibilities of a neuropsychology technician, the steps to take to become one and the average salary for this position.
What Does a Neuropsychology Technician Do?
A neuropsychology technician is a professional who works with patients who have suffered from neurological damage or diseases. They help patients regain cognitive and motor skills through rehabilitation exercises. A typical day for a neuropsychology technician might involve:
- Assessing patients to determine their level of cognitive functioning
- Planning and administering rehabilitation exercises to help patients regain lost skills
- Monitoring patients during exercise sessions to ensure they are progressing safely
- Keeping detailed records of patients’ progress
- Consulting with other members of the healthcare team to develop treatment plans
- Educating patients and their families about how to cope with neurological damage or disease
- Providing emotional support to patients and their loved ones
Neuropsychology Technician Salary and Job Outlook
The average salary for a neuropsychology technician is $48,410. This figure can vary based on the level of experience, education, industry and geographical location of the technician.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics expects job prospects for neuropsychology technicians to grow at a slower than average rate over the next decade. This is due in part to an aging population and the need for more research on degenerative diseases that affect cognitive function.
How to Become a Neuropsychology Technician
Here are several steps you should take to become a neuropsychology technician.
1. Earn a bachelor’s degree in psychology or a related field
Most neuropsychology technician positions require a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in psychology, behavioral science or a related field. Some schools offer specialized programs in neuropsychology that can help students develop the skills and knowledge they need to work as a neuropsychology technician.
It is important for aspiring neuropsychology technicians to choose a program that focuses on both neuroscience and psychology. This will give them an understanding of how the brain works and how it affects behavior. It is also helpful if their undergraduate program includes courses in statistics, research methods and cognitive assessment.
2. Complete an internship in a clinical setting
After earning your bachelor’s degree, you will need to complete an internship in a clinical setting. This provides you with hands-on experience working with patients and allows you to network with professionals in the neuropsychology field.
During your internship, you should focus on shadowing neuropsychologists or other psychology professionals who work in a clinical setting. You can also choose to intern at a hospital, rehabilitation center or mental health clinic. Internships typically last one year, but you may be able to shorten this time period if you have already completed coursework related to neuropsychology.
3. Obtain certification from the American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP)
The ABPP is a certification board that offers certifications to neuropsychology technicians who meet the necessary requirements. To obtain certification, you must first pass an exam covering topics such as ethics and professional practice, research methodology and statistics. You must also have at least two years of experience working in a neuropsychology setting.
4. Gain experience working with patients suffering from neurological disorders
Neuropsychology technicians typically gain experience working with patients suffering from neurological disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease, traumatic brain injury and stroke. This can be done through clinical internships or volunteer work at a hospital or clinic.
Working in this setting allows neuropsychology technicians to develop skills necessary for the job, such as how to interact with patients and their families and how to perform tests accurately. It also gives them an opportunity to network with professionals in the field who may be able to provide future employment opportunities.
5. Develop strong communication and interpersonal skills
Neuropsychology technicians must be able to communicate complex medical information in a way that is easy for patients and their families to understand. They also need strong interpersonal skills so they can work effectively with neuropsychologists, other healthcare professionals and patients.
Patients who have suffered brain injuries or neurological disorders may experience emotional or behavioral issues that make it difficult for them to interact with others. Neuropsychology technicians must be patient and compassionate when working with these individuals.
6. Stay up to date on changes in the field of neuropsychology
Neuropsychology is a rapidly evolving field, and new developments in the diagnosis and treatment of neurological disorders occur frequently. To stay informed about these changes, it’s important for neuropsychology technicians to regularly read professional journals and attend conferences and workshops offered by their employers or professional organizations.
Employers also expect neuropsychology technicians to keep up with advances in technology that may be used in patient care. For example, many neuropsychology labs use computer-based testing programs, so technicians should know how to operate these systems and ensure they’re working properly.
7. Join professional organizations such as the American Psychological Association (APA)
The American Psychological Association (APA) is a professional organization that provides guidelines and standards for the field of psychology. It offers training opportunities, networking possibilities and information on job openings in the neuropsychology field.
Joining the APA can help you stay up to date on changes in the field of neuropsychology and learn about new developments in the industry. You can also use the APA’s resources to find continuing education courses or seminars related to neuropsychology.
