What is Neuropsychology?

"Clinical neuropsychology is a specialty profession within psychology that focuses on brain and behavior relationships and functioning. A clinical neuropsychologist is a licensed psychologist with expertise in how behavior and skills are related to brain structures and systems. In clinical neuropsychology, brain function is evaluated by objectively testing many different types of thinking abilities. A very detailed assessment is done, and the pattern of strengths and weaknesses is used in important health areas, such as diagnosis and treatment planning. The clinical neuropsychologist conducts the evaluation and makes recommendations. He or she may also provide treatment, such as cognitive rehabilitation, behavior management, or psychotherapy." (source: Clinical Neuropsychology: A Guide for Patients and Their Families What is Clinical Neuropsychology? written by the Public Interest Advisory Committee, Division 40 American Psychological Association.

The goal of neuropsychology is to better understand how the brain affects behavior in both positive and negative ways.  Understanding the magnitude of the strengths and the weaknesses of the individual allows the neuropsychologist to provide functional interventions that can improve the functioning of that individual.