The Importance of Board Certification in Neuropsychology

The American Board of Professional Neuropsychology (ABN) has been granting board certification in clinical neuropsychology since 1982. ABN encourages the pursuit of excellence in the practice of clinical neuropsychology by offering a credentialing process while also offering consumers and the healthcare community a means of identifying well-qualified professional neuropsychologists.

Starting in January 2014, the Academy of the American Board of Professional Neuropsychology (AABN), a division of the ABN, began offering the opportunity for post-doctoral neuropsychology training programs to become a recognized training site. This innovative development emerged in response to: (a) the lack of adequate formal post-doctoral recognized training programs across the United States in comparison to the high number of graduates interested in formal, quality training programs, and (b) the fact that other agencies recognizing post-doctoral training programs require the Director of Training to have obtained board certification from only one board certifying agency (ABPP). These circumstances unfairly limit the programs available in the United States to the great detriment of large numbers of graduates seeking quality, recognized formal post-doctoral neuropsychology training.

The development and implementation of AABN was designed to strengthen the field of clinical neuropsychology by setting standards for post-doctoral training, to ultimately encourage board certification (without discrimination to any board) and thereby foster education and confidence in the public in the field of clinical neuropsychology.

At NRS|LS, our board certification process is unique in that upon completion of the two-year program, you automatically qualify to sit for the examination at no financial expense and have mentorship throughout the process.

Having achieved board certification in our neuropsychology fellowship, your professional status is unique is the following areas:

Expertise Development:  Your fellowship provides advanced training in neuropsychology, allowing fellows to develop specialized skills in assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of neurological and psychological disorders.
Credibility and Recognition:  Your board certification signifies that a neuropsychologist has met rigorous standards and is recognized by peers and institutions as having achieved the highest level of competency.
Clinical Experience:  Your fellowship program typically offers hands-on clinical experience, which is crucial for developing practical skills in a supervised environment.
Research Opportunities:  Your fellowship may include a research component, enabling you to contribute to the advancement of neuropsychological science and remain updated with the latest findings.
Career Advancement:  Your board certification can enhance job prospects, as many employers prefer or require it for clinical positions, especially in academic or specialized settings.
Professional Network:  Your fellowship provides access to a network of professionals, which can be beneficial for collaboration, mentorship, and career opportunities.
Ethical Standards:  Board certification entails adherence to ethical guidelines and ongoing education, ensuring you are committed to high standards of care.

A board-certified fellowship is essential for ensuring quality of care in the neuropsychological field while enhancing the professional development of neuropsychologists.

Please see our website at nrslifespan.com for further information regarding enrollment for the 2025 to 2027 fellowship.