A neurologist focuses on the physical aspects of disorders of the brain and other parts of the nervous system. A neuropsychologist focuses on how those disorders affect a person’s ability to function, that is, what a person is able to do, how they behave, think, work and relate to others.
The neurologist may do a limited screening of mental functions. The neuropsychologist conducts detailed neuropsychological testing of cognitive functioning. These tests are standardized, well-researched tools that measure specific mental abilities. By analyzing the pattern of test findings, the neuropsychologist can describe areas of impairment and areas of competence, identify probable causes of impairment, make predictions about work and social functioning, and recommend treatments.