The Role of the Psychologist in the Training of the Neurologically Impaired.

Increasingly sophisticated advances in neuropsychological testing procedures and the growing understanding of brain processes indicate the need for the psychologist to take a more active role in the rehabilitation of the neurologically impaired. The contributions the psychologist can make are outlined: (a) a detailed examination and report on the patient's deficits and strengths, (b) a detailed examination and report on the patient's emotional status, (c) a thorough consideration of how the various behavioral deficits and emotional deficits interact with one another and affect the patient's life, (d) a determination of which areas of the patient's neurological or emotional problems can best be handled initially so that training can be most productive and efficient, and (e) active participation in planning and conducting a rehabilitation plan in coordination with representatives of the other professions involved in helping the neurologically impaired patient.