What’s the difference between a Psychologist and a Clinical Neuropsychologist?

If you’ve started exploring assessment options for your child or for yourself, you may have come across different types of professionals. If you’re feeling confused by all the terms, you’re not alone.

One of the most common questions we hear is:
“What’s the difference between a psychologist and a neuropsychologist?”

It’s an important question, especially when you’re trying to make the right decision for your family. In this post, we’ll walk you through what both professionals do, how they overlap, and when it might be most helpful to see a neuropsychologist.

What Does a Psychologist Do?

A psychologist is a mental health professional trained in understanding human thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. In Australia, registered psychologists typically complete six years of university training, which may include generalist or specialist education.

Psychologists provide support across a wide range of areas, including:

• Anxiety and depression

• Behavioural and emotional regulation

• Relationship and family dynamics

• Grief, trauma, and life transitions

• Learning and developmental concerns

Some psychologists also conduct assessments, depending on their training and scope of practice.

What Is a Clinical Neuropsychologist?

A neuropsychologist is a psychologist who has undertaken additional specialist training in brain development and how it affects thinking, learning, and behaviour. In Australia, clinical neuropsychologists complete an accredited postgraduate degree (typically a Master’s or Doctorate) with two further years of supervised practice.

Neuropsychologists have undertaken advanced training in:

• Brain-based developmental conditions like ADHD, autism, and specific learning disorders (e.g., dyslexia)

• Intellectual ability and cognitive profiles

• Memory, attention, processing speed, and executive functioning

• The relationship between brain differences and day-to-day functioning at school, home, or work

Their focus is on assessment and diagnosis, not ongoing therapy. You can learn more about ADHD assessments, autism assessments, and specific learning disorder assessments in our other blog posts. Just click the links.

So, Who Should I See?

If you or your child are experiencing emotional distress, anxiety, difficulties with mood, or challenges in relationships, a psychologist is often the right place to start. Psychologists provide therapeutic support and strategies to help manage emotions, improve wellbeing, and navigate day-to-day challenges.

If you’re looking to understand whether a diagnosis like ADHD, autism, or a specific learning disorder might be contributing to challenges at home or school, a neuropsychologist is best placed to conduct a comprehensive assessment. Neuropsychologists focus on identifying how cognitive, learning, and developmental differences show up in everyday life.

In some cases, families work with both professionals. For example, a neuropsychologist may provide a detailed assessment to clarify what’s going on, and a psychologist may then support the child (or parent) with strategies, therapy, or behaviour support based on those findings.

Why Choose a Neuropsychological Assessment?

Neuropsychological assessments go beyond basic screening or symptom checklists. They provide:

• A detailed understanding of your (or your child’s) thinking strengths and challenges

• A diagnostic formulation, if appropriate, based on current clinical guidelines

• Practical recommendations for home, school, and future planning

• A clear summary of how cognitive, emotional, and learning profiles interact

This can be especially helpful when a child is:

• Bright but underachieving

• Anxious or emotionally reactive

• Struggling with focus, memory, or transitions

• Showing signs of neurodivergence that don’t fit a neat box

Final Thoughts

Both psychologists and neuropsychologists play an important role in supporting mental health and development. But if you’re seeking clarity around learning, attention, or developmental concerns, a neuropsychologist brings the additional training needed to dig deeper and provide answers that go beyond behaviour.

At The Neurodevelopment Clinic, we offer thorough, compassionate neuropsychological assessments that help families understand what’s really going on and what will help. If you’re unsure which path is right for you, we’re always happy to guide you.

Need support? Contact us here to find out if a neuropsychological assessment is the next step for your family.