NewYork-Presbyterian. The University Hospital of Columbia and Cornell.

Psychologist, Neuropsychologist, and Psychiatrist

Psychologist, Neuropsychologist, and Psychiatrist

What is a psychologist?

Psychologists work with the rehabilitation team to help meet the emotional, behavioral, and psychological needs of the patient and family. They are not medical doctors, but are Master's prepared, with many having earned a PhD. Psychologists help:

• counsel patients and families during times of stress, grief, and loss.
• identify strengths and behaviors that can help the patient succeed in rehabilitation.
• assess and treat for cognitive and behavioral problems, and plan behavior management programs.
• identify feelings and emotions that may impact recovery on the part of the patient, family, or the rehabilitation team.

What is a neuropsychologist?

Neuropsychologists are PhD-trained psychologists who specialize in how diseases, injuries, and disorders of the nervous system affect emotions and behaviors.

What is a psychiatrist?

Psychiatrists are medical doctors who can prescribe medications and treatments. They are not usually core team members, but are often available on a consulting basis.

All of these specialists may practice in a variety of settings, including the following:

• hospitals
• inpatient rehabilitation centers
• outpatient rehabilitation centers
• psychiatric care settings
• private practice
• community health centers
• schools

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Online Resources of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation