About neuropsychologists
Neuropsychologists assess and rehabilitate memory, attention, language and other cognitive functions after brain injury, stroke or in neurodegenerative and neurodevelopmental conditions.
Getting mental health care in Cambodia
Public health system · Ministry of Health - National Programme for Mental Health (referral hospitals)
Mental health care is provided mainly through outpatient services at provincial referral hospitals, with very few psychiatric inpatient beds and around 60 psychiatrists nationwide. Many provinces have no psychiatrist, and NGOs such as TPO Cambodia provide part of the community mental health care.
How to check that a professional is licensed
- Medical Council of Cambodia. All physicians, including psychiatrists, must register with the Medical Council (through its capital and provincial offices) before practising. Psychologists are not covered by any of the five health professional councils.
Urgent help in Cambodia
If your life or someone else's is in danger, call the emergency number now. These services can help at any time:
- 119 · Ambulance
- 017222372 · TPO Cambodia Suicide Prevention Helpline
Information reviewed in November 2026 · Sources: pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, thejakartapost.com, phnompenhpost.com, phnompenhpost.com
What does a neuropsychologist do?
A neuropsychologist studies how the brain relates to thinking and behaviour. Day to day they carry out detailed assessments of memory, attention, language, planning and other cognitive functions using standardised tests, write reports, and design rehabilitation or stimulation programmes. They work with people after a stroke or brain injury, with neurodegenerative or neurodevelopmental conditions, and with their families and medical teams.
When to see a neuropsychologist
A neuropsychologist can help when there are noticeable changes in memory, concentration, language or behaviour, after a head injury or stroke, with concerns about cognitive decline, or to clarify learning or attention difficulties. They are also useful to plan rehabilitation and adapt daily life. If the concern is mainly emotional, a psychologist may fit better; medical causes need a neurologist.
How is it different from other professionals?
A neurologist is a doctor who diagnoses and treats diseases of the nervous system and can prescribe medication and order scans. A neuropsychologist measures how those conditions affect thinking and behaviour and works on rehabilitation, without prescribing. A general psychologist focuses more on emotions and behaviour than on detailed cognitive testing. An occupational therapist helps adapt everyday activities and environments after cognitive changes.
What happens in the first session
The first meeting usually gathers information about the concern, medical history, education, daily functioning and any changes noticed by relatives. Testing may start then or in later sessions. Bring medical reports, scan results, a list of medication, school reports if relevant and, if possible, a family member who knows you well. Ask what the assessment involves and what the report will include.
How long does the process take?
A full neuropsychological assessment often takes several hours, sometimes split over more than one appointment, plus time to score tests and prepare a report. Rehabilitation or cognitive stimulation is usually delivered in regular sessions over weeks or months, depending on the cause, the goals and how the person responds. Progress is typically reviewed and the programme adjusted along the way.
Online or in person?
Some parts of neuropsychology work online, such as initial interviews, feedback sessions, family guidance and certain rehabilitation exercises. However, many standardised tests are designed for face-to-face administration, so formal assessments are usually better in person. Online work may be harder for people with significant attention, hearing, vision or technology difficulties, unless a relative can help with the setup.
How to check their qualifications
A neuropsychologist is usually a psychologist with postgraduate specialisation in neuropsychology, so check first that they are registered as a psychologist with the licensing body of their country. Then ask about their specific neuropsychology training, clinical experience with your type of condition, the tests they use and whether they work with hospitals, rehabilitation centres or multidisciplinary teams.
What affects the price?
Costs differ between a one-off assessment with a written report and ongoing rehabilitation sessions. The number of tests, hours involved, the complexity of the case, the professional’s experience, the city and whether reports are needed for legal or administrative purposes all affect price. Ask for an estimate before starting and whether health insurance or public services cover part of it.
How to choose
When choosing, check the licence and training, the approach they use and whether they have experience with what you need. Consider practical aspects too: language, price, location or online sessions and availability. The relationship with the professional matters a great deal; if after a few sessions it does not feel right, it is fine to change.
Frequently asked questions
Does the public health system in Cambodia cover psychological care?
Mental health care is provided mainly through outpatient services at provincial referral hospitals, with very few psychiatric inpatient beds and around 60 psychiatrists nationwide. Many provinces have no psychiatrist, and NGOs such as TPO Cambodia provide part of the community mental health care.
How do I check that a neuropsychologist is licensed in Cambodia?
Medical Council of Cambodia: All physicians, including psychiatrists, must register with the Medical Council (through its capital and provincial offices) before practising. Psychologists are not covered by any of the five health professional councils.