RESOURCES

Notice of Amendment to Scopes of Practice and Related Qualifications Prescribed by the Psychologists Board

Pursuant to sections 11 and 12 of the Health Practitioners Competence Assurance Act 2003, the following notice is given.

This notice further amends the Psychologists Board’s notice dated 20 August 2004 and published in a Supplement to the New Zealand Gazette, 15 September 2004, No. 120, page 2976, setting out scopes of practice and related qualifications.

Please add the following vocational scope of practice, along with its definition and qualification:

Neuropsychologist
Neuropsychologists apply scientific understanding of the relationship between the brain and neuropsychological function within applied clinical contexts. This approach forms the basis for the assessment, formulation, and rehabilitation of people who have sustained brain injuries or other neurological conditions. Neuropsychologists work with people of all ages who have neurological problems such as traumatic brain injury, stroke, epilepsy, toxic and metabolic disorders, brain tumours, and neurodegenerative diseases. Such practice is undertaken within an individual’s area and level of expertise and with due regard to ethical, legal, and Board-prescribed standards.

Qualifications Prescribed for the Scope
A minimum of a Master’s degree in Psychology from an accredited educational organisation and an accredited Postgraduate Diploma in neuropsychology, or equivalent qualification. Eligibility for the Neuropsychologist scope of practice shall require a Board-approved practicum or internship involving no less than 1500 hours of supervised practice.

This notice takes effect from 15 February 2017.

Dated at Wellington this 8th day of January 2018.

STEVEN J. OSBORNE, Chief Executive and Registrar, Psychologists Board.