NEUROPSYCHOLOGY PROGRAM OF EXCELLENCE NEWS

First Bi-lungual neuropsychology program begins in Colorado

Spanish is recognized as the second most commonly spoken language in the U.S. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, people of Hispanic origin are the nation’s largest ethnic population. Colorado is 22.3% Hispanic. Most of Hispanics and Latinos of Colorado live in Western Colorado. The majority of Hispanics in the state are under the age of 18 (35% of Hispanics), while the rest of the Hispanic population is mainly made up of the 18-34 and 35-54 age groups (28% and 25% respectively).

The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) says that as a community, Hispanics are less likely to seek mental health treatment or neuropsychological testing due to language barriers, lack of information, and misunderstanding about mental health. Yet, without testing, diagnostics, and treatment, certain mental health conditions can worsen and even become disabling or fatal.

Michelle Miranda, PhD Assistant Professor

Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Department of Neurosurgery

Neuropsychology is the specialized field that includes neurological and psychological testing of various parts of the brain, particularly useful when brain surgery may be a treatment option.

Despite numerous calls throughout the years for an increase in ethnic, cultural, and racial diversity within the field of psychology, it remains an elusive reality for Hispanic neuropsychology practitioners in the United States (U.S.).

Findings confirm that Hispanic neuropsychologists in the U.S. are culturally diverse, present with varied levels of bilingualism, have been faced with discrimination during training and in their workplace, and compare favorably with non-Hispanic neuropsychologists in terms of education and clinical training. Source: IOSPress.com

The Neurosurgery Department at CU is particularly proud to begin this new program in Colorado, under the direction of Dr. Michelle Miranda.