SNS defines Sports Neuropsychology as, “a practice within the broader field of clinical neuropsychology that applies scientific knowledge of brain health and brain disorders to the setting of sports and athletes. Building on the education, training, and experience required to meet the competencies set out by the Houston Guidelines, the sports neuropsychologist practices with athletes at all levels and ages, integrating an individual’s developmental and cultural background in the context of the psychology and culture of their sport. The sports neuropsychologist assesses the cognitive, social, and emotional factors associated with concussion, using appropriate norms as guidelines to interpret assessment results. Furthermore, they provide evidence-based treatment and/or guidance to promote brain health and recovery after brain injury. The goal of sports neuropsychology is to advocate for the safe participation of athletes in sport, thereby promoting healthy behaviors integral to the sports domain. A primary focus of sports neuropsychology is to protect the brain health of athletes and support their mental and physical health across the lifespan.”
Neuropsychologists commonly evaluate and treat individuals with sports-related brain injuries, from those suffered in recreational activities to those incurred by elite professional athletes. How do injured athletes, family members, and athletic personnel know that these sports concussion services are rendered by qualified professionals? Neither state licensing boards nor certifying organizations provide sufficient regulation or guidance to ensure that such practices conform in principle to SNS’s definition of sports neuropsychology.
To meet this need, the Sports Neuropsychology Society (SNS) has established an Advanced Clinical Practice Proficiency (ACPP) designation that serves to protect and inform the public, consumers, and stakeholders that the neuropsychology professional who has attained this added qualification has met minimum education, training, and experience standards and has subjected their sports concussion skills to peer review.
The ACPP designation provides recognition for Professional Members of the Society who possess advanced clinical experience in the assessment, diagnosis, management, and treatment/rehabilitation of sport-related concussion (SRC) and its sequelae. These individuals have experience with sports-related organizations, government organization, and/or non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to enhance the health, education, and safety of recreational, amateur, and/or professional athletes. The ACPP is not an “elite” designation; instead, it is intended to be attainable by all sports neuropsychologists who have the requisite training and experience.
SNS Professional Members can apply for the ACPP Designation through the Members Only page.