The MMHC and the BIDMC Neurology Department have rich traditions of excellence in clinical work and research. Core faculty at these institutions have made ground breaking contributions to our current knowledge of major mental illnesses and the neural substrates of neurocognitive disorders. This tradition forms the foundation for The BIDMC/MMHC neuropsychology fellowship, which is a uniquely integrated program within the departments of psychiatry and neurology. The Fellowship includes a range of training experiences to enhance knowledge of clinical psychology, neuropsychological theory, neuroanatomy, cognitive neuroscience, clinical neurology, neuropsychiatry, neuroimaging, and therapeutic interventions. Consistent with the Houston Conference guidelines on Specialty Education and Training in Clinical Neuropsychology, the Fellowship promotes development of core neuropsychological competencies in assessment, intervention, consultation, supervision, research and professional development. Training involves a combination of clinical, academic and research experiences to prepare students for board certification through the American Academy of Clinical Neuropsychology (AACN).
Clinical rotations include neuropsychological evaluations of individuals with a broad array of disorders including major psychiatric illness, mood disorders, epilepsy, stroke, head injury, multiple sclerosis, mild cognitive impairment, various forms of dementia, neurodevelopmental problems, sleep deficits, metabolic disturbances, diabetes, and major organ failure. Comprehensive assessments of adults with ADHD, learning disabilities or other neurodevelopmental disorders are emphasized. Fellows work closely with neuropsychologists, neuropsychiatrists, and cognitive neurologists in a multi-disciplinary team approach. Training focuses on the integration of medical, psychological, and social factors in the formulation of treatment plans to enhance individual’s quality of life, and to help families understand and cope with ongoing challenges of chronic neuropsychiatric problems. Fellows participate in year-round didactics that emphasize clinical, academic, and professional aspects of neuropsychology. Research mentorship is provided by HMS faculty. Scholarly development is an important component of the program. Fellows are required to submit a paper for publication by the end of their second year of training and will present their papers orally in a hospital-based clinical or research oriented seminar. Fellows’ research interests will be matched with those of HMS faculty.
Fellows have academic appointments at HMS, work at a major medical center, and receive a variety of in-depth training experiences that include seminars, clinical case conferences and intensive supervision. Fellows receive a stipend and they are provided with comprehensive benefits through HMFP.
For further information about the program, contact Dr. Stone (617-754-1235; wstone@bidmc.harvard.edu), Dr. Lynn Shaughnessy (617-667-8968; lshaughn@bidmc.harvard.edu), or Dr. Nancy Moczyinski (617-667-4755).