Clinical Neuropsychology Training Issues: A Students's

Clinical Neuropsychology Clinical Neuropsychology Training Issues:Training Issues:

A Student’s PerspectiveA Student’s Perspective

ByBy

Zoe Proctor-Weber, PhDZoe Proctor-Weber, PhD

James A. Haley VA Medical CenterJames A. Haley VA Medical Center

Tampa, FLTampa, FL

Overview of Training in Overview of Training in NeuropsychologyNeuropsychology

Clinical Neuropsychology is a formally recognized Clinical Neuropsychology is a formally recognized specialty area under the umbrella of clinical specialty area under the umbrella of clinical psychology. psychology.

In addition to training in general clinical In addition to training in general clinical psychology, it involves specialized training in psychology, it involves specialized training in theoretical, empirical, and practical aspects of the theoretical, empirical, and practical aspects of the brain-behavior relationship.brain-behavior relationship.

Education, training, and supervision in Clinical Neuropsychology is available primarily at the postdoctoral level, although preparation begins at the doctoral level.

Be knowledgeableBe knowledgeableHouston Conference GuidelinesHouston Conference Guidelines

Provides an integrated model of professional Provides an integrated model of professional education and training in Clinical education and training in Clinical Neuropsychology:Neuropsychology:

General Knowledge Base and SkillsGeneral Knowledge Base and Skills Doctoral, Internship and Postdoctoral Training Doctoral, Internship and Postdoctoral Training

GuidelinesGuidelines Continuing EducationContinuing Education Professional and Scientific ActivityProfessional and Scientific Activity SubspecialtiesSubspecialties

Hannay, H. J., Crosson, B.A., Hammeke, T. A., Hamsher, K. deS., & Koffler, S. P. Hannay, H. J., Crosson, B.A., Hammeke, T. A., Hamsher, K. deS., & Koffler, S. P. 1998. Proceedings: The Houston Conference on Specialty Education and Training in 1998. Proceedings: The Houston Conference on Specialty Education and Training in Clinical Neuropsychology. Clinical Neuropsychology. Archives of Clinical Neuropsychology,Archives of Clinical Neuropsychology, 1313(2).(2).

DEFINITION OF A CLINICAL DEFINITION OF A CLINICAL NEUROPSYCHOLOGIST (1989)NEUROPSYCHOLOGIST (1989)

A professional psychologist who applies principles of assessment and A professional psychologist who applies principles of assessment and intervention based upon the scientific study of human behavior as it relates to intervention based upon the scientific study of human behavior as it relates to normal and abnormal functioning of the central nervous system. The Clinical normal and abnormal functioning of the central nervous system. The Clinical Neuropsychologist is a doctoral-level psychology provider of diagnostic and Neuropsychologist is a doctoral-level psychology provider of diagnostic and intervention services who has demonstrated competence in the application of intervention services who has demonstrated competence in the application of such principles for human welfare following: such principles for human welfare following:

A. Successful completion of systematic didactic and experiential training in A. Successful completion of systematic didactic and experiential training in neuropsychology and neuroscience at a regionally accredited university.neuropsychology and neuroscience at a regionally accredited university.

B. Two or more years of appropriate supervised training applying B. Two or more years of appropriate supervised training applying neuropsychological services in a clinical setting. neuropsychological services in a clinical setting.

C. Licensing and certification to provide psychological services to the public by the C. Licensing and certification to provide psychological services to the public by the laws of the state or province in which he or she practices. laws of the state or province in which he or she practices.

D. Review by one's peers as a test of these competencies.D. Review by one's peers as a test of these competencies.

*Attainment of the ABCN/ABPP Diplomate in Clinical Neuropsychology is the *Attainment of the ABCN/ABPP Diplomate in Clinical Neuropsychology is the clearest evidence of competence as a Clinical Neuropsychologist, assuring that clearest evidence of competence as a Clinical Neuropsychologist, assuring that

all all of these criteria have been met.of these criteria have been met.

UNDERGRADUATE FOCUS:

•Psychology coursework and/or major (esp. abnormal, developmental, statistics).

•Biology or behavioral medicine coursework (provides a strong foundation for graduate neuropsychology coursework)

•Research Assistanceship and/or involvement

PRELIMINARY STEP

UNDERGRADUATE TRAINING

SELECTING A GRADUATE SELECTING A GRADUATE PROGRAMPROGRAM

Graduate Schools: University or Professional?Graduate Schools: University or Professional?

University programs are highly competitive (low selection University programs are highly competitive (low selection ratio). Your application will be helped by excellent grades, GRE ratio). Your application will be helped by excellent grades, GRE scores and some previous research experience—preferably, a scores and some previous research experience—preferably, a published paper, if only as a co-author.published paper, if only as a co-author.

Professional schools are easier to get into, but they are very Professional schools are easier to get into, but they are very expensive. You will have to take out enormous student loans, expensive. You will have to take out enormous student loans, or you might try to work while studying—perhaps even or you might try to work while studying—perhaps even studying part-time. Also, many professional schools offer studying part-time. Also, many professional schools offer primarily the Psy.D. degree, reserving the Ph.D. (if they offer it primarily the Psy.D. degree, reserving the Ph.D. (if they offer it at all) for a few, select students.at all) for a few, select students.

Neuropsychology Track?Neuropsychology Track?

Specialization in NP can begin at the doctoral level.Specialization in NP can begin at the doctoral level.

Often, Clinical Neuropsychology is offered as a distinct Often, Clinical Neuropsychology is offered as a distinct track in clinical psychology programs, designed to follow track in clinical psychology programs, designed to follow APA Div40/Houston Conference guidelines.APA Div40/Houston Conference guidelines.

Recognized tracks make it easier to specialize (existing, Recognized tracks make it easier to specialize (existing, easily accessible NP faculty, research labs, clinics, on/off easily accessible NP faculty, research labs, clinics, on/off campus practica sites, core coursework curriculum…).campus practica sites, core coursework curriculum…).

No Track? That’s OK.No Track? That’s OK.Important to be proactiveImportant to be proactive

Seek out didactics, research and clinical training Seek out didactics, research and clinical training opportunities in the community to be competitive.opportunities in the community to be competitive.

Predoctoral NP Specialty Predoctoral NP Specialty PreparationPreparation

Core Coursework in NPCore Coursework in NP

In addition to the basic Clinical Psychology curriculum, In addition to the basic Clinical Psychology curriculum, competitive students have completed doctoral level competitive students have completed doctoral level coursework in:coursework in:

• Neuropsychology AssessmentNeuropsychology Assessment• Clinical NeuropsychologyClinical Neuropsychology• Behavioral and Clinical neurosciencesBehavioral and Clinical neurosciences• Behavioral (Clinical) NeurologyBehavioral (Clinical) Neurology

(coursework generally includes exposure to functional (coursework generally includes exposure to functional neuroanatomy, neuropathology, psychopharmacology, neuroanatomy, neuropathology, psychopharmacology, neuroimaging, relevant test construction/research, neuroimaging, relevant test construction/research, neuropsychology assessment, case conceptualization…)neuropsychology assessment, case conceptualization…)

Predoctoral Clinical ExperiencePredoctoral Clinical Experience

Practica Placement Practica Placement

Hospital (acute inpt, rehab, outpt services)Hospital (acute inpt, rehab, outpt services) Mental Health Clinics (LD, ADHD, TBI, CVA, MDC)Mental Health Clinics (LD, ADHD, TBI, CVA, MDC) Private Practice Private Practice

Goal:Goal: Exposure to a wide range of diagnoses, tests, clinical Exposure to a wide range of diagnoses, tests, clinical

settings, age range, conceptualization style…settings, age range, conceptualization style… Experience conducting interviews, administering Experience conducting interviews, administering

comprehensive test batteries, staffing cases, writing comprehensive test batteries, staffing cases, writing reports and working within a multidisciplinary reports and working within a multidisciplinary treatment team. treatment team.

ResearchResearch Many internship sites place a strong emphasis on Many internship sites place a strong emphasis on

research and scholarly interest and “product” (even if research and scholarly interest and “product” (even if you intend to practice as a clinician).you intend to practice as a clinician).

National conference attendance and association membership National conference attendance and association membership Journal club participationJournal club participation Poster presentationsPoster presentations Book chaptersBook chapters Peer reviewed publicationsPeer reviewed publications GrantsGrants

Tendency to prefer applicants who have successfully Tendency to prefer applicants who have successfully proposed or defended their dissertation prior to the start proposed or defended their dissertation prior to the start of internship.of internship.

NETWORKINGNETWORKING

Be active! Be visible!Be active! Be visible!

Former students.Former students. Local psychologists in the community.Local psychologists in the community. Psychology organizations such as Psychology organizations such as

APAGS, your state psychological APAGS, your state psychological association and APA are also important association and APA are also important connection vehicles.connection vehicles.

Find a MentorFind a Mentor

Be resourceful. Be resourceful. Identify a professor who conducts research Identify a professor who conducts research

on a subject that interests you.on a subject that interests you. Find a professor with whom you interact well, Find a professor with whom you interact well,

regardless of his or her field of research. regardless of his or her field of research. Seek a supportive relationship.Seek a supportive relationship. Take courses offered by him/her.Take courses offered by him/her. Arrange for office visits for additional Arrange for office visits for additional

discussions.discussions. Offer to do some volunteer work on research. Offer to do some volunteer work on research.

Be reliable, dependable and professional.Be reliable, dependable and professional.

SEEK SPECIAL OPPORTUNITIESSEEK SPECIAL OPPORTUNITIES

Don’t wait for opportunities to come to you!Don’t wait for opportunities to come to you! Offer to TA graduate classes or teach Offer to TA graduate classes or teach

undergrad classes.undergrad classes. Volunteer to work on research projects.Volunteer to work on research projects. Scout out hidden training gems within your Scout out hidden training gems within your

own program.own program. Bare minimum won’t cut it. Bare minimum won’t cut it.

The Successful Intern ApplicantThe Successful Intern ApplicantInternship sites differ in terms of focus and Internship sites differ in terms of focus and

expectations:expectations:

Clinical Experience, Research, DidacticsClinical Experience, Research, Didactics

Early in your graduate training learn what specificEarly in your graduate training learn what specificinternship sites expect and value in training.internship sites expect and value in training.

How?How? Call sites you are interested in and see whatCall sites you are interested in and see whattheir successful applicants had – get specificstheir successful applicants had – get specifics““an ideal candidate would have…” in terms of an ideal candidate would have…” in terms of research, clinical experience, extra-curricular research, clinical experience, extra-curricular activities etc… activities etc…

KNOW WHAT YOU NEED!KNOW WHAT YOU NEED!

Selection Criteria for Clinical Selection Criteria for Clinical Neuropsychology InternshipsNeuropsychology Internships

Supervisors of 50 Clinical Neuropsych Supervisors of 50 Clinical Neuropsych internships (Cripes 1995, 1998) were internships (Cripes 1995, 1998) were asked to rank order criteria used for asked to rank order criteria used for selecting intern applicants.selecting intern applicants.

SurveysSurveys 40 responses (80% response rate)40 responses (80% response rate) Reflects “aspirational” criteria Reflects “aspirational” criteria

Mittenberg, W., Peterson, R. S., Cooper J. T., Strauman, S. & Essig, Mittenberg, W., Peterson, R. S., Cooper J. T., Strauman, S. & Essig, S. M. (2000). Selection Criteria for Clinical Neuropsychology S. M. (2000). Selection Criteria for Clinical Neuropsychology Internships. Internships. The Clinical Neuropsychologist,The Clinical Neuropsychologist, 1414(1), 1-6.(1), 1-6.

Supervisor’s Rank Ordered Supervisor’s Rank Ordered Critical ItemsCritical Items

Rank OrderClinical Experience - Assessment 1

NP Specialization within Program 2

Interview (Interpersonal Characteristics) 3

Letters of Recommendation 4

Personal Statement (Goals/Interests) 5

Pubs/Presentations (research competence) 6

Clinical Experience - Psychotherapy 7 Familiarity with Applicants

Supervisor(s) 8

Work Sample 9

GPA 10

Preferred NP Practica or Clinical Preferred NP Practica or Clinical Training ExperienceTraining Experience

Considered Essential or Very Important

Clinical NP pts 97.5%

Neurology 95%

Psychiatry 77.5%

Clinical Psych pts 72.5%

Medical rehab/health psych pts 47.5%

Counseling pts 30%

Cog rehab pts 25%

Desired Setting ExperienceDesired Setting Experience

Rank Order

Univ Medical Center 1

VA Medical Center 2

Community Hospital or Clinic 3

Private Rehab Facility 4

Private Practice 5

Prior Assessment ExperiencePrior Assessment Experience


NP Assessment

Flexible/Functional Systems 80%

Process 60%

Fixed 37.5%

Personality Assessment

Objective 90%

Projective 20%

Vocational/Functional Assessment 27.5%

Educational BackgroundEducational Background


Div 40 Curriculum 82.5%

NP Faculty/Supervisors 87.5%

NP Recommendation Letters 85%

Diss Proposed 92.5%

Diss Completed 27.5%

Prior Research ActivityPrior Research Activity


Publications in Referenced Journals 42.5%

Nat Conference Presentations 50%

INS 47.5%

NAN 40%

APA Div40 45%

Other Considerations for Other Considerations for Selecting an InternshipSelecting an Internship

Seek Seek balancedbalanced training programs. training programs.

Clinical Rotations (seek variety re: populations, Clinical Rotations (seek variety re: populations, disorders, settings).disorders, settings).

Offered Didactics (general and specialty). Quality?Offered Didactics (general and specialty). Quality? Research opportunities (does their faculty publish?) Research opportunities (does their faculty publish?)

Role of interns (collect data, analyses, write?).Role of interns (collect data, analyses, write?). Supervision (Individual? Group?) With whom? Seek Supervision (Individual? Group?) With whom? Seek

variety.variety. Teaching (opportunities to present lectures?)Teaching (opportunities to present lectures?) Other considerations:Other considerations:

• How many neuropsych interns? Sharing resources? How many neuropsych interns? Sharing resources? • Is there a postdoc program?Is there a postdoc program?

Availability vs. Availability vs. OpportunityOpportunity

To good to be true?To good to be true? Make sure the “available” opportunities listed Make sure the “available” opportunities listed

on site brochures are actually attainable (talk on site brochures are actually attainable (talk to current interns!).to current interns!).

Manage/protect your time.Manage/protect your time. Set limits with your supervisors.Set limits with your supervisors. Acknowledge the amount of time it takes you Acknowledge the amount of time it takes you

to do complete something.to do complete something. Set reasonable/attainable goals.Set reasonable/attainable goals.

Make wise choices (1 peer reviewed pub vs. 3 Make wise choices (1 peer reviewed pub vs. 3 posters).posters).

KEEP AN OPEN MINDKEEP AN OPEN MIND Remember you won't always know what you like until

you try it. Graduate training is a time to grow and discover

interests – use this time to round out your education.

General clinical training is an essential aspect of training to become a Neuropsychologist.

All graduate programs offer students the chance to learn how to be critical thinkers and good learners–skills that you'll be able to use no matter how the market for psychology changes.

Think AheadThink Ahead Educate yourself! Know the expected Educate yourself! Know the expected

requirements for the next level of training.requirements for the next level of training.

Select an internship site that will help you Select an internship site that will help you become a more competitive postdoc become a more competitive postdoc candidate (fill in your training gaps).candidate (fill in your training gaps). ResearchResearch ClinicalClinical DidacticsDidactics

A Model ExampleA Model Example JAHVA Medical Center, Tampa, FLJAHVA Medical Center, Tampa, FL

Educates students on the Educates students on the requirements/qualifications for attaining requirements/qualifications for attaining competitive postdoctoral fellowships and competitive postdoctoral fellowships and board certification.board certification.

Provides ABCN Didactics to introduce and Provides ABCN Didactics to introduce and prepare trainees at the intern and prepare trainees at the intern and postdoctoral level to successfully navigate postdoctoral level to successfully navigate and pass the NP Specialty boards.and pass the NP Specialty boards.

Participation is required for Postdocs and Participation is required for Postdocs and strongly encouraged for Interns:strongly encouraged for Interns:

Teach neuroanatomy and neuropathology to Teach neuroanatomy and neuropathology to students and staff.students and staff.

100 question practice NP written exams. 100 question practice NP written exams.

Mock oral fact-finding exams. Mock oral fact-finding exams.

Mock oral ethics exam.Mock oral ethics exam.

Work sample submission and oral defense of a NP Work sample submission and oral defense of a NP case. case.

Resources for prospective Resources for prospective students, interns, postdocsstudents, interns, postdocs

A list of graduate training programs in A list of graduate training programs in Clinical Neuropsychology is maintained by Clinical Neuropsychology is maintained by Division 40 of the American Psychological Division 40 of the American Psychological Association. Association.

www.div40.orgwww.div40.org

The list is periodically published in The list is periodically published in The Clinical NeuropsychologistThe Clinical Neuropsychologist, by Swets , by Swets & Zeitlinger Publishers. & Zeitlinger Publishers.

Graduate, internship and Graduate, internship and postdoctoral training programspostdoctoral training programs

Name of institution and departmentName of institution and department DOT contact information (Board certified yes/no)DOT contact information (Board certified yes/no) # of available positions# of available positions Length of programLength of program Available financial assistanceAvailable financial assistance Info on training setting, patient demographics, Info on training setting, patient demographics,

researchresearch Specialty training (neuropsychology, Specialty training (neuropsychology,

rehabilitation etc…)rehabilitation etc…) Application procedure informationApplication procedure information

ResourcesResourcesCheck out websitesCheck out websites

APA-40 (Division of Clinical Neuropsychology (40) of the American Psychological APA-40 (Division of Clinical Neuropsychology (40) of the American Psychological Association)Association)APPIC (Association of Psychology Postdoctoral and Internship Centers) APPIC (Association of Psychology Postdoctoral and Internship Centers) APPCN (Association of Postdoctoral Programs in Clinical Neuropsychology) APPCN (Association of Postdoctoral Programs in Clinical Neuropsychology) AITCN (Association for Internship Training in Clinical Neuropsychology)AITCN (Association for Internship Training in Clinical Neuropsychology)ABCN (ABCN (American Board of Clinical Neuropsychology )American Board of Clinical Neuropsychology )ABPDN (American Board of Pediatric Neuropsychology) ABPDN (American Board of Pediatric Neuropsychology) ABPP-CN (American Board of Professional Psychology - Clinical Neuropsychology) ABPP-CN (American Board of Professional Psychology - Clinical Neuropsychology) NAN (NAN (National Academy of Neuropsychology)INS (International Neuropsychology Society)AACN (American Academy for Clinical Neuropsychology) AACN (American Academy for Clinical Neuropsychology) ADECN (Association for Doctoral Education in Clinical Neuropsychology)

Join Listserves:Join Listserves:Div40ANSTDiv40ANSTWINSWINSNPSYCHNPSYCHPEDSNPSYCHPEDSNPSYCHPOSTDOCPOSTDOCINTERNINTERNAPAGSAPAGS

Attend National ConferencesAttend National ConferencesNAN (National Academy of Neuropsychology)NAN (National Academy of Neuropsychology)INS (International Neuropsychology Society)INS (International Neuropsychology Society)APA (American Psychological Association)APA (American Psychological Association)

Independent Training CentersIndependent Training Centers

Center for Applied NeuropsychologyCenter for Applied Neuropsychology - The Center for Applied - The Center for Applied Neuropsychology (CAN) is a private, non-profit, community-based Neuropsychology (CAN) is a private, non-profit, community-based agency devoted to service, research, and training in rehabilitation agency devoted to service, research, and training in rehabilitation psychology, neuropsychology, and vocational rehabilitation. psychology, neuropsychology, and vocational rehabilitation.

NAN distanCENAN distanCE - The National Academy of Neuropsychology takes - The National Academy of Neuropsychology takes the forefront in offering neuropsychology-oriented continuing the forefront in offering neuropsychology-oriented continuing education (CE) via the Internet. www.nanonline.org/education (CE) via the Internet. www.nanonline.org/

The Neuropsychology CenterThe Neuropsychology Center - The Neuropsychology Center offers - The Neuropsychology Center offers a variety of training opportunities and experiences. These include a variety of training opportunities and experiences. These include Continuing Education (CE) seminars, clinical consultation, and ad Continuing Education (CE) seminars, clinical consultation, and ad hoc training experiences. http://www.neuropsych.com/hoc training experiences. http://www.neuropsych.com/

Overview of Postdoctoral Training in Clinical Neuropsychology

Corwin Boake, PhD

University of Texas-Houston Medical Schooland

Memorial Hermann-TIRR, Houston, Texas

[email protected]

Main topics

Houston Conference guidelines

What to look for in a residency

Nuts & bolts of application & interview

National match

Survey of 2007 match applicants

Goal is to complete the education and training necessary for independent practice of clinical neuropsychology (CN)

Residency is a REQUIRED component in specialty education in CN

The equivalent of 2 years of full-time education and training Residency MUST occur on at least a half-time basis ENTRY criteria:

1. Entrance SHOULD be based upon completion an APA/CPA- accredited doctoral program.

2. Residents WILL have successfully completed an APA/CPA- accredited internship which includes SOME training in CN.

Houston Conference guidelines for postdoctoral training

EXIT criteria: 1. Faculty includes a board-certified clinical neuropsychologist

and other psychologists. 2. Training at a fixed site or affiliated local sites with

primarily on-site supervision. 3. Access to clinical services and training in medical

specialties and allied professions. 4. Interactions with residents in medical and allied

specialties. 5. Eligibility for state or provincial licensure for independent

practice. 6. Eligibility for board certification by ABCN.

Houston Conference guidelines for postdoctoral training

Preparing for application to postdoctoral programs

Doctorate in clinical/counseling/school

APA/CPA accreditation of doctoral program and internship

Neuropsychology background through practica, employment, coursework, and/or research

If no exposure available in doctoral program, supplement with additional supervised practicum, employment, etc.

Preparing for application to postdoctoral programs

Involvement in specialty organizations (e.g., APA Div 40, INS, NAN) Need to complete dissertation by start date of residencyUse internship to round out general clinical competenciesNeuropsychology internship is not necessary and not always helpfulPlan applications with advisor or mentor

How to judge program quality

Meets Houston conference guidelines

Offers a variety of clinical experience

Quality supervision and fair evaluation

Opportunities for education and research

Expected clinical productivity

How to judge program quality

Evidence of staff expertise

Adequate resources

APA accreditation: potential advantage but not required at the postdoctoral level

Outcomes of previous residents

Applying to postdoctoral programs

Programs have different application procedures (but simpler than internship)

List specific goals in cover letter

Attend INS for interviews

Speak with former/current trainees

Apply to many programs

APPCN membership criteria

Duration of 2 years of postdoctoral training, or equivalent on at least a half-time basis

Activity at least 50% clinical, 10% didactics, and 10% research

Program director is board-certified in clinical neuropsychology by ABCN

National match: timeline

Applicant Program

Register with NMS

Interviews

Submit ranks

MatchClearing-

house

mid-January

2008

2/29/08

3/10/08

Deadline

National match: Basic procedures

Computerized matching process, run by NMS on behalf of APPCN

All programs meeting Houston guidelines may participate

Fees for applicants and programs

Match assignments are based on applicants’ and programs’ rankings

Match assignments are binding

Clearinghouse available after match

National match: rules for participation

Program can disclose only if the applicant is competitive and will be ranked

Premature offers are not allowed

No limit on number of applications or number of ranks submitted

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National match survey

Survey of applicants in 2007 matchPurpose: Describe match registrants Assess satisfaction with the match What influences match outcome

The overall match rate for those who responded was 62%

National match survey: Factors that influence match outcome

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National match survey: Summary

Factors associated with match success: Publications Number of interviews obtained: for those with

8 or more interviews, match rate was 95%

75% of non-matched applicants reported obtaining a neuropsychology fellowship

National match: Advantages to the applicant

Access to most quality programs that meet training standards for ABCNProcedure is fair to applicants Ability to apply to many programs using the same processMinimize travel by interviewing at INSMatch outcome is bindingClearinghouse

National match: important links

APPCN: www.appcn.org

NMS: www.natmatch.com/appcnmat/

Conclusions

1. Postdoctoral residency is required for new doctorates to practice in this specialty

2. Competition for residency positions

3. Preparing a competitive application

Questions?

American Board of American Board of Clinical Clinical

Neuropsychology Neuropsychology (ABCN)(ABCN)

Celiane Rey-Casserly, PhDCeliane Rey-Casserly, PhD

Why Board Certification?Why Board Certification? Protection of the patient is paramount!Protection of the patient is paramount! During earlier periods, multiple routes to clinical During earlier periods, multiple routes to clinical

practice were followed-now development of practice were followed-now development of formal training opportunitiesformal training opportunities

Even with formal training, level of training Even with formal training, level of training cannot be guaranteed, either by program or by cannot be guaranteed, either by program or by student.student.

Self-designation is not acceptable. Certificates Self-designation is not acceptable. Certificates of training are no better.of training are no better.

Certification by examination by peers is the only Certification by examination by peers is the only appropriate method of assuring competence.appropriate method of assuring competence.

Psychology Boards Analogous to Psychology Boards Analogous to Medical BoardsMedical Boards

State licensure is not appropriate for State licensure is not appropriate for specialty regulation.specialty regulation. Problems with generic licensure abound, including:Problems with generic licensure abound, including:

Understanding of specialty criteria difficult for Understanding of specialty criteria difficult for legislatorslegislators

Multiple claims to competence without Multiple claims to competence without appropriate examappropriate exam

Board certification is voluntary and regulated Board certification is voluntary and regulated by the field.by the field. Medical specialties also not regulated at state levelMedical specialties also not regulated at state level AMA directory lists “self-designated” specialistsAMA directory lists “self-designated” specialists

Purpose of the Purpose of the ExaminationExamination

The examination for the diploma is designed to The examination for the diploma is designed to assess advanced competence in the practice of assess advanced competence in the practice of clinical neuropsychology. It is intended not just clinical neuropsychology. It is intended not just as a measure of fund of knowledge, but also as a as a measure of fund of knowledge, but also as a tool to determine the effectiveness of application tool to determine the effectiveness of application of neuropsychological principles in the clinical of neuropsychological principles in the clinical setting and the promotion of the welfare of the setting and the promotion of the welfare of the patient. patient. The examination is designed to provide The examination is designed to provide a standard by which competence to practice a standard by which competence to practice Clinical Neuropsychology is judged. Clinical Neuropsychology is judged.

Bieliauskas & Matthews, 1987Bieliauskas & Matthews, 1987

ABCN Officers and ABCN Officers and AppointeesAppointees2007-20092007-2009

PresidentPresident Michael WesterveldMichael Westerveld Vice PresidentVice President Bernice MarcopulosBernice Marcopulos SecretarySecretary Karen WillsKaren Wills TreasurerTreasurer Rich NaugleRich Naugle ABPP RepresentativeABPP Representative Sandra KofflerSandra Koffler

Executive DirectorExecutive Director Linas BieliauskasLinas Bieliauskas Exam Committee Chair Bernice MarcopulosExam Committee Chair Bernice Marcopulos Local Arrangements ChairLocal Arrangements Chair Chris GroteChris Grote

ABCN BOD 2007ABCN BOD 2007

Debra Koltai Attix (2007-2012) Richard Naugle (2000-2009)Debra Koltai Attix (2007-2012) Richard Naugle (2000-2009)William Barr (2003-2008) Celiane Rey-Casserly (2005-2010)William Barr (2003-2008) Celiane Rey-Casserly (2005-2010) James Becker (2004-2009) Brenda Spiegler (2005-2010)James Becker (2004-2009) Brenda Spiegler (2005-2010)Julie Bobholz (2007-2012) Sara Swanson (2004-2009)Julie Bobholz (2007-2012) Sara Swanson (2004-2009)Jennifer Haut (2006-2011 Fred Unverzagt (2006-2011)Jennifer Haut (2006-2011 Fred Unverzagt (2006-2011)David Kareken (2006-2011) Michael Westerveld (2000-David Kareken (2006-2011) Michael Westerveld (2000-

2009)2009)Sandra Koffler (1997-2007) Karen Wills (2003-2009)Sandra Koffler (1997-2007) Karen Wills (2003-2009)Gregory Lee (2004-2009 Tony Wong (2007-2012)Gregory Lee (2004-2009 Tony Wong (2007-2012)John Lucas (2005-2010)John Lucas (2005-2010)Bernice Marcopulos (2003-2008)Bernice Marcopulos (2003-2008)

Current Status of Board Current Status of Board CertificationCertification

As of June, 2007, there are 599 board As of June, 2007, there are 599 board certified Clinical Neuropsychologists, certified Clinical Neuropsychologists, from 48 states, the District of Columbia, from 48 states, the District of Columbia, and 4 provinces. and 4 provinces.

Since its inception, ABCN has awarded Since its inception, ABCN has awarded board certification to 609 individuals. board certification to 609 individuals.

In 2005, 61 took the written exam and 36 In 2005, 61 took the written exam and 36 took the oral exam. took the oral exam.

In 2006, 83 took the written exam and 47 In 2006, 83 took the written exam and 47 took the oral.took the oral.

So far 2007: 86 written; 20 oralsSo far 2007: 86 written; 20 orals

ABCN Written ExaminationsABCN Written Examinationsin Recent Yearsin Recent Years

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**with one exam to gowith one exam to go

Application and ExaminationApplication and Examination2 phases2 phases

Assessment of Assessment of education, training, education, training,

knowledgeknowledge

1. Application and 1. Application and Credentials Review Credentials Review

2. Written Exam2. Written Exam

Assessment of Assessment of competencecompetence

3. Practice Sample 3. Practice Sample EvaluationEvaluation

4. Oral Exam4. Oral Exam

CostsCosts

$125 Application Fee$125 Application Fee

$300 Written Examination Fee$300 Written Examination Fee

$250 Work Sample Fee$250 Work Sample Fee

$450 Oral Examination Fee$450 Oral Examination Fee

How Long Does it Take?How Long Does it Take?

Eligibility CriteriaEligibility Criteria Earned doctoral degree in psychology from a Earned doctoral degree in psychology from a

regionally accredited university.regionally accredited university. Membership in professional psychological Membership in professional psychological

organizations which have identified purposes and organizations which have identified purposes and policies that are congruent with those of ABPP.policies that are congruent with those of ABPP.

Licensed or certified at the level of independent Licensed or certified at the level of independent practice.practice.

Areas of training and experience:Areas of training and experience: Basic NeurosciencesBasic Neurosciences -Neuropathology-Neuropathology Clinical NeurologyClinical Neurology -Neuroanatomy-Neuroanatomy Psychological AssessmentPsychological Assessment Clinical Neuropsychological AssessmentClinical Neuropsychological Assessment Psychological InterventionPsychological Intervention PsychopathologyPsychopathology

Three years of experience in Clinical Three years of experience in Clinical Neuropsychology, satisfied by:Neuropsychology, satisfied by: 3 years of experience, one of which may be 3 years of experience, one of which may be

predoctoral internship with an emphasis in Clinical predoctoral internship with an emphasis in Clinical NeuropsychologyNeuropsychology

one year pre or post doctoral experience one year pre or post doctoral experience andand successful completion of a postdoctoral program in successful completion of a postdoctoral program in Clinical NeuropsychologyClinical Neuropsychology

Two years of supervision in the practice of Two years of supervision in the practice of Clinical Neuropsychology, satisfied by:Clinical Neuropsychology, satisfied by: 2 years of postdoctoral supervision2 years of postdoctoral supervision 1 year of predoctoral & 1 year of postdoctoral 1 year of predoctoral & 1 year of postdoctoral

supervisionsupervision completion of a postdoctoral program in Clinical completion of a postdoctoral program in Clinical

NeuropsychologyNeuropsychology

Written ExaminationWritten Examination

Prepared in conjunction with the Prepared in conjunction with the Professional Examination Service (PES)Professional Examination Service (PES)

Updated every 2-3 years by 30%Updated every 2-3 years by 30% Items rated for appropriateness as well as Items rated for appropriateness as well as

accuracyaccuracy 100 multiple-choice items, covering 4 100 multiple-choice items, covering 4

rubricsrubrics Given at each of the four major Given at each of the four major

neuropsychological meetings annually, neuropsychological meetings annually, INS, AACN, APA Division 40, and NANINS, AACN, APA Division 40, and NAN

Four Rubrics for Four Rubrics for Questions from Houston Questions from Houston

Conference Conference Generic Psychology Core Generic Psychology Core Generic Clinical Core Generic Clinical Core Brain-behavior Relationships Brain-behavior Relationships Clinical NeuropsychologyClinical Neuropsychology

Work Sample Work Sample SubmissionSubmission

A work sample consists of two casesA work sample consists of two cases The cases must be sufficiently The cases must be sufficiently

different to demonstrate broad different to demonstrate broad knowledgeknowledge

OriginalOriginal report, summary sheet, copy report, summary sheet, copy of raw test protocolsof raw test protocols

Note: Supplementary materials NO Note: Supplementary materials NO LONGER REQUIRED!LONGER REQUIRED!

Oral ExaminationsOral ExaminationsWhen work samples have been accepted (not When work samples have been accepted (not passedpassed) )

for oral examination, candidate is asked to prepare for oral examination, candidate is asked to prepare to take the next available oral examination. to take the next available oral examination. Examinations are currently held at Rush-Examinations are currently held at Rush-Presbyterian-St. Luke’s Medical Center in Chicago in Presbyterian-St. Luke’s Medical Center in Chicago in the middle of May and the middle of October each the middle of May and the middle of October each year. With two examination teams, 24 candidates year. With two examination teams, 24 candidates can be accommodated at each exam. There are can be accommodated at each exam. There are current capabilities to expand to 36 candidates per current capabilities to expand to 36 candidates per examination if necessary.examination if necessary.

The examination committee of ABCN selects the The examination committee of ABCN selects the examiners from a fixed cadre of examiners, selected examiners from a fixed cadre of examiners, selected for high quality of past exam administrations or high for high quality of past exam administrations or high probability of effective examination based on probability of effective examination based on training experience. The examiners represent the training experience. The examiners represent the diversity of board certified clinical diversity of board certified clinical neuropsychologists, including gender, region, neuropsychologists, including gender, region, child/adult emphasis, and seniority.child/adult emphasis, and seniority.

Board Preparation Board Preparation ResourcesResources

The HistoryThe History

““BRAIN” is an ABPP/CN study group that BRAIN” is an ABPP/CN study group that was started by a few candidates back in was started by a few candidates back in 2002. Formally named "BRAIN" later. Lots 2002. Formally named "BRAIN" later. Lots of info about the group has been compiled of info about the group has been compiled and is now available on the web, so it and is now available on the web, so it might be easiest to just check that out:might be easiest to just check that out:

http://www.cincinnatichildrens.org/svc/http://www.cincinnatichildrens.org/svc/alpha/n/neurobehavioral/brain/alpha/n/neurobehavioral/brain/. .

““BRAIN”BRAIN”BRAIN (which stands for “Be Ready for ABPP in BRAIN (which stands for “Be Ready for ABPP in

Neuropsychology) is becoming an increasingly well Neuropsychology) is becoming an increasingly well organized group designed to help our colleagues organized group designed to help our colleagues obtain their ABCN certification. While it was originally obtain their ABCN certification. While it was originally started by a small group of friends (prior to AACN’s started by a small group of friends (prior to AACN’s mentoring program), it has expanded to include over mentoring program), it has expanded to include over 125 members. The listserve consists of 125 members. The listserve consists of neuropsychologists at all stages of the ABPP process, neuropsychologists at all stages of the ABPP process, from individuals who are still thinking about turning from individuals who are still thinking about turning in their credentials to over 30 people who are now in their credentials to over 30 people who are now ABCN diplomates. They have designed study notes ABCN diplomates. They have designed study notes (which can be viewed at the website) and also (which can be viewed at the website) and also provide supportive suggestions and guidance to provide supportive suggestions and guidance to candidates as they proceed through the ABPP candidates as they proceed through the ABPP process. They have also been able to provide a forum process. They have also been able to provide a forum for individuals to develop study groups for each stage for individuals to develop study groups for each stage of the ABPP process, as well as provide a little bit of of the ABPP process, as well as provide a little bit of inspiration and positive peer pressure. They now inspiration and positive peer pressure. They now have an official listserve (thanks to Bob Ivnik’s have an official listserve (thanks to Bob Ivnik’s generosity) and website (thanks to Dean Beebe’s generosity) and website (thanks to Dean Beebe’s efforts). efforts).

““BRAIN”BRAIN” New members are accepted upon referral New members are accepted upon referral

from a member of AACN or an already from a member of AACN or an already existing member of BRAIN who may or existing member of BRAIN who may or may not have completed the ABPP/CN may not have completed the ABPP/CN process (this person is considered the process (this person is considered the new member's "sponsor").new member's "sponsor").

If a supervisor is not a member of AACN If a supervisor is not a member of AACN or Brain, they should contact someone or Brain, they should contact someone who is.who is.

The only other criterion to join BRAIN is The only other criterion to join BRAIN is that the new member be a licensed that the new member be a licensed psychologist. psychologist.

BRAIN (continued)BRAIN (continued)

If an AACN or BRAIN member would like to add If an AACN or BRAIN member would like to add someone to the study group listserve,contact someone to the study group listserve,contact Michael Kirkwood (Michael Kirkwood ([email protected]@tchden.org) ) with the name,email address, and a brief narrative with the name,email address, and a brief narrative biosketch of the potential member.biosketch of the potential member.

After receiving this information, Dr. Kirkwood will After receiving this information, Dr. Kirkwood will send an email to the new member and the sponsor, send an email to the new member and the sponsor, which will include an introductory welcome letter which will include an introductory welcome letter and listserv registration information. Dr. Kirkwood and listserv registration information. Dr. Kirkwood will subsequently post the biosketches of new will subsequently post the biosketches of new members to the BRAIN listserv as a means of members to the BRAIN listserv as a means of introducing them to the group.introducing them to the group.

AACN ResourcesAACN Resources Available at www.theaacn.orgAvailable at www.theaacn.org AACN Study Guide for board AACN Study Guide for board

certification: A very detailed resource certification: A very detailed resource regarding each step in the process. regarding each step in the process.

AACN Mentorship Program: AACN Mentorship Program: Available to candidates who have passed Available to candidates who have passed

the Credentials Reviewthe Credentials Review Meant for support and consultationMeant for support and consultation Participation is optional, although Participation is optional, although

advisableadvisable

Questions? Questions?

Documents

Clinical Neuropsychology Training Issues: A Students's