FAQ
1How can I become a “neuropsychologist”?
To become a neuropsychologist, you need an Honours degree in psychology and then to do a Master's degree in neuropsychology. There is currently only one university in South Africa that offers a Master’s degree in neuropsychology: University of Cape Town (UCT).
Psychologists registered in the categories of clinical, educational and counselling psychology might be able to work in the field of neuropsychology if they have sufficient training and expertise. Refer to the Minimum Standards Document on the HPCSA website for more information.
In order to become and remain up-to-date in this field of neuropsychology, it is recommended that you attend as many relevant training opportunities as possible and/or become a subscriber to the NeuropsychologySA website, which will give you access to information of relevance in this field. (The Neuropsychology SA website is owned by Dr Sharon Truter.)
Psychologists registered in the categories of clinical, educational and counselling psychology might be able to work in the field of neuropsychology if they have sufficient training and expertise. Refer to the Minimum Standards Document on the HPCSA website for more information.
In order to become and remain up-to-date in this field of neuropsychology, it is recommended that you attend as many relevant training opportunities as possible and/or become a subscriber to the NeuropsychologySA website, which will give you access to information of relevance in this field. (The Neuropsychology SA website is owned by Dr Sharon Truter.)
1May you use the term "neuropsychologist" to refer to certain psychologists in South Africa?
In June 2020, the HPCSA registered the first neuropsychologists. Only psychologists registered as neuropsychologists may call themselves "neuropsychologists".
2What does a psychologist practicing in the field of neuropsychology do?
Such psychologists assess brain-based behavioural disorders for the sake of clarifying diagnoses, helping with treatment decisions, monitoring treatment efficacy, research and giving opinions regarding medico-legal matters. They are also sometimes involved in cognitive rehabilitation.
3When is a neuropsychological assessment needed?
Neuropsychological assessments are needed if a brain-based impairment or disturbance in thinking or behaviour is suspected, such as with:
• Traumatic brain injury (e.g. concussion, coma and open head wounds);
• Strokes;
• Memory difficulties with unknown cause;
• Brain tumours;
• Dementing conditions (e.g. Alzheimer’s disease);
• Neuropsychiatric disorders;
• Seizure disorders (epilepsy);
• Effects of toxic chemicals or chronic substance abuse;
• Movements disorders and
• Forensic cases (e.g. if a person needs a curator)
• Traumatic brain injury (e.g. concussion, coma and open head wounds);
• Strokes;
• Memory difficulties with unknown cause;
• Brain tumours;
• Dementing conditions (e.g. Alzheimer’s disease);
• Neuropsychiatric disorders;
• Seizure disorders (epilepsy);
• Effects of toxic chemicals or chronic substance abuse;
• Movements disorders and
• Forensic cases (e.g. if a person needs a curator)
4How can a neuropsychological assessment help you?
A neuropsychological assessment can:
• Confirm or clarify a diagnosis;
• Quantify cognitive and behavioural strengths and weaknesses to guide rehabilitation and vocational or educational needs;
• Track changes in functioning and
• Help guide the person to others that can help with treatment.
• Confirm or clarify a diagnosis;
• Quantify cognitive and behavioural strengths and weaknesses to guide rehabilitation and vocational or educational needs;
• Track changes in functioning and
• Help guide the person to others that can help with treatment.