Practicum in Clinical Neuropsychology- Cognitive Neurology Unit

The Cognitive Neurology Unit (CNU) at BIDMC welcomes advanced doctoral students in psychology seeking experience in clinical neuropsychology.  The CNU is an outpatient clinic staffed by an interdisciplinary team of neuropsychologists, neurologists, neuropsychiatrists, social workers, and trainees from all disciplines.  Specialty clinics include: Concussion and TBI Clinic, Clinic for Executive Function, Attention and Related Disorders, Memory A2Z Program and Brain Fit Club.  Neuropsychological evaluation is an integral part of all treatment teams.  Therapeutically focused evaluations are provided to adult patients with a variety of neurological concerns including learning and attention disorders, head injury, stroke, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, and neurodegenerative disorders.

The CNU practicum is designed to promote mastery of skills in all areas of neuropsychological evaluation, including interviewing, testing, scoring, report writing, and providing patient feedback.  The practicum trainee is involved in assessment of two to three patients per week.  Additional potential clinical activities include cognitive remediation and therapy groups coordinated through the Brain Fit Club.  Academic expectations include presenting patients at weekly rounds and participation in didactic seminars.  Up to two hours of weekly supervision and didactics are provided.  Although the practicum is designed with a clinical emphasis, research opportunities may be available for interested students able to commit additional time on site. The practicum is unpaid and is a 12 month training program (July 1st – June 30th); a twelve month commitment is required.  A strong interest in neuropsychology, demonstrated by prior testing experience, is preferred.

Expectations for practicum students:

• Mastery of test administration and scoring during the early months of the practicum
• Complete neuropsychological assessments for two to three patients per week
• Complete scoring/data sheet and behavioral observations on each case
• Report writing responsibilities (weekly)
• Attend CNU/CNBS Grand Rounds (Wed 4-5)
• Attend and present at weekly neuropsychology seminar (Wed 3-4)
• Attend weekly supervisory sessions with primary supervisor

Optional Experiences (participation is strongly encouraged is appropriate):

• Optional experiences (participation is strongly encouraged if appropriate):
• Co-lead cognitive remediation group(s)
• Weekly BIDMC Neurology Grand Rounds (Wed 11:30-12:30)
• Weekly Neuropsychology Seminar through MMHC/BIDMC postdoctoral program in neuropsychology (available depending on number of students) (Thurs 9-10:30)

For further information about the program, contact Dr. Sara Hoffschmidt, Director of Practicum Training, at (shoffsch@bidmc.harvard.edu) at 617-667-4074.