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 Thailand
Public health system · Universal Coverage Scheme (Gold Card / 30-baht scheme), National Health Security Office
The Universal Coverage Scheme covers care at the hospital or health unit where you are registered, with referral for specialist treatment. Psychiatric treatment is included with a referral, while psychotherapy is generally not covered unless referred.
How to check that a professional is licensed
- Ministry of Public Health, Professional Committee for Clinical Psychology (Practice of the Art of Healing Act B.E. 2542). Clinical psychology has been a licensed branch of the healing arts since 2003; practitioners must pass a national licensing exam and hold a healing-arts licence. Ask for the licence.
- Medical Council of Thailand. Psychiatrists are physicians registered with the Medical Council of Thailand, which maintains the register of doctors.
Insurance and coverage
The Universal Coverage Scheme includes psychiatric treatment with a referral but generally not psychotherapy.
Urgent help in Thailand
If your life or someone else's is in danger, call the emergency number now. These services can help at any time:
- 1669 · Ambulance
- 1323 · สายด่วนสุขภาพจิต 1323
- 021136789 · The Samaritans of Thailand
Information reviewed in November 2026 · Sources: en.wikipedia.org, expatica.com, therapyroute.com, thetreatmentregistry.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 Thailand cover psychological care?
The Universal Coverage Scheme covers care at the hospital or health unit where you are registered, with referral for specialist treatment. Psychiatric treatment is included with a referral, while psychotherapy is generally not covered unless referred.
How do I check that a neuropsychologist is licensed in Thailand?
Ministry of Public Health, Professional Committee for Clinical Psychology (Practice of the Art of Healing Act B.E. 2542): Clinical psychology has been a licensed branch of the healing arts since 2003; practitioners must pass a national licensing exam and hold a healing-arts licence. Ask for the licence.