Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/103743
What is a neuropsychologist? I study brain function and assess a patient's thinking abilities; for example, memory, language ability, attention, visual/spatial abilities and their speed of processing information. After interviewing a patient, a technician administers paper/pencil tests to assess these abilities. I review the results, provide diagnostic impressions and give recommendations. What types of patients do you see? I see patients with dementia, multiple sclerosis, memory problems, stroke or brain injury, and other types of neurological issues. My goal is to help diagnose and treat the patient. For example, my interview and the patient's test results are helpful in figuring out what type of dementia a patient has. Or, for a brain injury patient, an evaluation can be helpful to assess whether they have recovered enough to go back to work. I am also asked to evaluate patients who would like to return to driving after a neurological issue. What treatment options do you provide patients? Examples of treatments I may recommend depending on the patient and their diagnosis: speech or physical therapy at a facility such as Ozarks Neuro Rehab, counseling at CoxHealth Psychological Services or Burrell Behavioral Health, or a consultation with a neurologist. What training and education did you complete to become a neuropsychologist? I earned a bachelor's degree in psychology and public relations, a master's degree in clinical psychology and a doctorate in clinical psychology with an emphasis 14 Dr. Brittany Allen shows a patient what to do as part of their assessment. in neuropsychology. While working on my doctorate I had to complete a one-year internship that was followed by a two-year post-doctoral residency in neuropsychology. Recently I earned my board certification in neuropsychology and I am one of only three board certified neuropsychologists in Springfield. Dr. Brittany Allen sees patients by referral. For more information, call 269-6891.