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 New Zealand
Public health system · Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora
Free short-term mental health and wellbeing support for mild to moderate distress is offered in many general practices through the Access and Choice programme, delivered by Health Improvement Practitioners and health coaches. Depending on the region you can book directly or be referred by your GP or practice nurse, often on the same day. Availability depends on the practice; people with more severe needs are referred by their GP to specialist mental health services. More information
How to check that a professional is licensed
- New Zealand Psychologists Board (Te Poari Kaimātai Hinengaro o Aotearoa). Psychologist is a protected title: only people registered with the Board may use it, and they also need a current practising certificate. Check the register for their scope of practice (Psychologist or Clinical Psychologist) and practising certificate. Search the official register
- Medical Council of New Zealand. Doctors, including psychiatrists, must be registered with the Medical Council. The public register shows scope of practice and whether the doctor holds a current annual practising certificate. Search the official register
- Psychotherapists Board of Aotearoa New Zealand (PBANZ). Psychotherapists are regulated under the Health Practitioners Competence Assurance Act 2003 and are listed on the Board's public register. Counsellor is not a protected title.
Urgent help in New Zealand
If your life or someone else's is in danger, call the emergency number now. These services can help at any time:
- 111 · Emergency (111)
- 1737 · 1737 Need to talk?
- 0800 543 354 · Lifeline Aotearoa
- 0508 828 865 · Suicide Crisis Helpline (0508 TAUTOKO)
Information reviewed in November 2026 · Sources: psychologistsboard.org.nz, mcnz.org.nz, tewhatuora.govt.nz, mentalhealth.org.nz
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 New Zealand cover psychological care?
Free short-term mental health and wellbeing support for mild to moderate distress is offered in many general practices through the Access and Choice programme, delivered by Health Improvement Practitioners and health coaches. Depending on the region you can book directly or be referred by your GP or practice nurse, often on the same day. Availability depends on the practice; people with more severe needs are referred by their GP to specialist mental health services.
How do I check that a neuropsychologist is licensed in New Zealand?
New Zealand Psychologists Board (Te Poari Kaimātai Hinengaro o Aotearoa): Psychologist is a protected title: only people registered with the Board may use it, and they also need a current practising certificate. Check the register for their scope of practice (Psychologist or Clinical Psychologist) and practising certificate.