Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Rehabilitation

Psychologist/Neuropsychologist

Psychological and emotional adaptation by patients and their families is very important to the rehabilitation process and necessitates that a psychologist be part of the rehabilitation health care team. The psychologist interacts with patients directly and in conjunction with other care providers toward patient and family adaptation to disability. Where indicated, consultation, individualized psychotherapy sessions, or other specialized treatment programs may be initiated. Specific referral to the Psychiatry Consultation-Liaison Service, Marriage and Family Clinic or Chemical Dependency Program is typically carried out in conjunction with the social worker and/or physician.

A neuropsychologist (psychologist specializing in behavioral consequences of brain injury) will conduct interviews and examinations when there are symptoms or diagnosis of stroke, brain injury or other neuralgic illness. Test results are discussed with patients and their families and questions are answered. Recommendations (based on test results) are incorporated into therapeutic treatment and discharge plans.