Psychologist, Neuropsychologist, and Psychiatrist: Physical Rehabilitation
If you are in the hospital recovering from surgery, healing from an injury, or being treated for a disabling medical condition, physical rehabilitation may be an important part of your treatment. Physical medicine and rehabilitation (rehab) is a branch of medicine called physiatry.
What is a psychologist?
Psychologists work as part of the rehabilitation team to help meet the emotional, behavioral, and psychological needs of the patient and family. They are not medical doctors, but have earned a PhD.
Psychologists help:
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Counsel patients and families during times of stress, grief, and loss
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Identify strengths and behaviors that can help the patient succeed in rehabilitation
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Assess and treat for cognitive and behavioral problems, and plan behavior management programs
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Identify feelings and emotions that may impact recovery on the part of the patient, family, or the rehabilitation team
What is a neuropsychologist?
Neuropsychologists are PhD-trained psychologists who specialize in how diseases, injuries, and disorders of the nervous system affect emotions and behaviors.
What is a psychiatrist?
Psychiatrists are medical doctors who treat mental health issues. They can prescribe medicine, but may also employ a number of counseling techniques. They are not usually core team members, but are often available on a consulting basis.
All of these specialists may practice in a variety of settings, including the following:
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Hospitals
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Inpatient rehabilitation centers
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Outpatient rehabilitation centers
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Psychiatric care settings
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Private practice
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Community health centers
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Schools
Online Medical Reviewer:
Ballas, Paul, DO
Online Medical Reviewer:
Watson, L. Renee, MSN, RN
Date Last Reviewed:
3/1/2018
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