Outreach neuropsychology: Innovations in community-based training.

Abstract

Objectives: Theoretical models of cross-cultural neuropsychology and practice have seen a rapid increase over the last several years. Yet while much progress has been made from a theoretical perspective, little has been said about the practicality of implementing such programs. Neuropsychology with vulnerable populations often demands more time for less reimbursement. Method: We propose to blend the need for robust and nuanced multicultural neuropsychology with innovative practical training. Community-oriented training programs led by trainees reduce the burden of billing and productivity, while increasing access and teaching complex concepts such as building partnerships, developing programs, and honing cross-cultural clinical skills. Results: The authors discuss two programs built on this model. First the graduate-level HopeWorks program to provides neuropsychology care to unhoused adults in New Mexico and second the Salud Para Niños neuropsychology program to provide care to Spanish-speaking children in Pennsylvania. They also discuss the need for supervision of bilingual trainees by monolingual supervisors and the use of tele-supervision. Conclusions: The authors propose that the success of these programs will encourage supervisors to establish new training rotations to serve their communities' most vulnerable members while providing valuable training experiences and robust supervision.