Characteristics of and Professional Issues Experienced by Early Career Neuropsychologists in the United States – Findings from a Survey Study

Abstract

Abstract Objective Multiple transitions occur during the early career stage of a psychologist, perhaps to a higher extent and with more potent ramifications than subsequent career stages. However, limited information exists on the various expectations, concerns, and challenges experienced by early career psychologists (ECPs) broadly, and more specifically in clinical neuropsychology. Therefore, the Society for Clinical Neuropsychology (SCN)/Division 40’s Early Career Neuropsychologist Committee developed a Needs Assessment Survey with the primary goal of identifying various training and professional development issues encountered by ECPs in clinical neuropsychology. Method A comprehensive survey was distributed electronically via listserv announcements and SCN communication tools (Newsletters and Neuroblasts). Data collection occurred from 29 May, 2020 to 02 August, 2020. The total sample comprised of 89 respondents (85% aged 31–40 years; 83% female; 82% Caucasian, followed by 18% Asian; 3% of Hispanic ethnicity). Results Majority of the respondents graduated from APA-accredited doctoral programs and from postdoctoral programs that adhered to Houston Conference Guidelines. About 7% took >2 years to complete their residency and about 10%–15% of ECPs expressed clear dissatisfaction with at least some aspect of their residency training. Becoming board certified in neuropsychology was the highest ranked career goal for ECPs in neuropsychology (45%), whereas 72% indicated difficulty understanding billing and insurance-related issues as the most frequently encountered professional challenge. About 57% of ECPs were concerned about maintaining work/life balance. Conclusions Specific ways to aid and strengthen trainees and ECPs’ professional needs are discussed with a focus on activities that can be undertaken at individual-, department-, profession-, and higher legislative-specific levels. IMPACT STATEMENT Question: Using survey data, this study aimed to characterize early career psychologists (ECPs) training history and their current work settings, identify their needs, and understand their perspectives about challenges and expectations. Findings: Results reveal that the workforce comprising of ECPs is getting increasingly diverse, and their needs are typically focused on obtaining board certification. ECPs identified areas for improvement in their training, such as increasing their knowledge of billing and insurance, and expressed concerns about maintaining work/life balance. Importance: The Minnesota 2022 Update Conference seems like a promising platform for addressing several of the needs identified by the survey and providing updated guidelines for ECPs. Next Steps: Based on the findings, general guidelines have been proposed for state and local level organizations along with call for action to higher-level legislation.