Overview

Overview

Welcome! Thank you for your interest in Cleveland Clinic's Department of Psychiatry & Psychology and its training programs.

The Department is one of four in Cleveland Clinic's Neurological Institute, including Neurology, Neurosurgery and Neuroradiology. Coincidentally, the Department has its origins in the vision of Cleveland Clinic’s first chairman of Neurological Surgery, W. James Gardener, MD. At a 1943 meeting of Cleveland Clinic’s Administrative Board, he proposed adding a department of psychiatry to the growing Cleveland Clinic. Eventually, in 1946 the Department of Neuropsychiatry opened, and in 1960 split into separate departments with A. Dixon Weatherhead, MD, serving as Psychiatry’s first Chairman.

In July, 1961 the Department welcomed its first resident trainee, and by 1976 the General Adult Psychiatry Residency Training Program had achieved full accreditation. Since then, Cleveland Clinic has consistently ranked as one of the nation's top hospitals by U.S. News & World Report, and its training programs have developed a similarly strong reputation.

The Department's academic mission has roots that are not only deep, but broadly based. In addition to its General Adult Psychiatry Residency Training Program, it has competitive fellowships in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry and Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry, and post-doctoral fellowships in Neuropsychology, Health Psychology, and Chronic Pain. Long involved in the training of medical students, the department played a vital role in the planning and development of Cleveland Clinic's Lerner College of Medicine (CCLCM), which opened its doors in 2004. Department staff, residents and fellows continue to play key roles as mentors and in didactic, seminar, office-based and bedside teaching of CCLCM and Case Western Reserve University medical students.

Cleveland Clinic has always been committed to excellence in patient care and research in the diseases that affect our patients. We take special pride in training future psychiatrists, clinical psychologists and neuropsychologists and look forward to meeting and visiting with you.

Karen Jacobs, MD
Director, Psychiatry Residency Program
Cleveland Clinic Neurological Institute

Diversity & Inclusion

Discover the role diversity and inclusion plays at Cleveland Clinic and at its Graduate Medical Education program, as well as our diversity and inclusion efforts.

Learn more
Clinical Health Psychology Fellowship

Clinical Health Psychology Fellowship

Program Description

The goal of this Clinical Health Psychology Fellowship is to provide individualized, clinical opportunities for psychological assessment and interventions with adult patients experiencing a wide range of medical and psychological problems. Our fellowship is primarily outpatient-based and includes psychological consultations and diagnostic interviews, short-term psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, group psychotherapy with medical patients, and special programs (e.g. psychological treatment of multiple sclerosis, cognitive behavioral treatment of insomnia, primary care, stress management, biofeedback with medical patients, and objective personality assessment). Opportunities are available to pursue special areas of interest (such as medical school teaching, marital and family therapy, program development, and bariatric evaluations). This is a one year certificate program in one major rotation area; fellows may apply for second year of fellowship in the same or different area of specialty based upon goodness of fit/mutual consent. To date, our graduates have been successful at obtaining a position in Clinical Health Psychology upon completion of the fellowship.

Our 5 Current Major Rotations in Behavioral Medicine include:

Minor rotations in these areas are assigned based on goodness of fit with major rotations:

  • Primary Care Outpatient Clinic/Family and Marital Therapy.
  • Behavioral Sleep Medicine/Sleep Disorders Clinic.
  • Mellen Center.
  • Bariatric Clinic.  
  • Medical School Teaching/Communication Skills Training (when available).
  • Research in Multiple Sclerosis, Biofeedback.

The fellowship is clinical in nature, but the fellow is expected to participate in ongoing research, poster presentations, didactics, and teaching.

The fellowship provides a generous benefits package:

  • Individual supervision for licensure.
  • Extensive didactics.
  • Paid time away (15 vacation days, 5 personal days).
  • Individual/family medical benefits (available for a fee).
  • Dental insurance (available for a fee).
  • Vision insurance (available for a fee).
  • Flexible spending accounts for dependent care and healthcare expenses (contributions are pre-tax).
  • One stipend per fellow may be available for travel/conference attendance pending approval by the Department Administrator. The fellow must be the primary author and presenter at the conference, the research must be generated at Cleveland Clinic, and the research must be published during the fellowship.

Learn more about our Health Psychology Fellowship Program

Application Process

Applications are accepted from October through the mid December of each calendar year. Applications should be submitted to the Program Director and are reviewed by the Program Director and supervisors of major/minor rotations. Qualified applicants will have completed all requirements for their doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) in clinical or counseling psychology from an APA-approved program including their dissertation defense before the September start date of their first year of fellowship (no exceptions). In addition, they will have graduated from a pre-doctoral internship in adult clinical and/or health psychology (health psychology experience is essential) that is an APA accredited graduate program (preferred) or graduate program that meets the APPIC standards (required). Our fellowship is not currently APA accredited, but we are listed on the APPIC directory.

Interested applicants should email the following materials to Natalie Douglass DOUGLAN3@ccf.org: CV, Official Transcripts and a letter of interest/intent specifying preferences for major rotation(s). Please specify all rotations for which you would like to be considered. Include a clinical work sample and three letters of recommendation (sent by their authors). If you have not yet received your doctorate, a letter from your program director attesting to your status as a doctoral candidate, and anticipated date of dissertation defense as well as anticipated graduation date are also required.

Interview Process

Interviews for invited applicants are held in a group format in late January/early February of each calendar year. Applicants selected for interviews will be contacted via email in mid to late January. All active supervisors will be present and participate during interviews to provide an opportunity to interact with all candidates.

Hiring Decision

Preference is given to applicants at APA accredited pre-doctoral internships in health psychology; however, applicants meeting APPIC internship standards will be considered. Prior to beginning the first year of fellowship, fellows are required (no exceptions) to have completed all requirements for their doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) in clinical or counseling psychology from an APA-approved program including their dissertation defense.

Hiring decisions are typically made in late February early March of every calendar year. Actual appointments begin in late August/early September. In years where there is an APPIC Uniform Notification Date (UND) for postdoctoral fellowships we adhere to their hiring policies.

  • Matthew Sacco, PhD
    Director, Clinical/Health Psychology Training Program
    Associate Staff Psychologist
    Behavioral Medicine/Mellen Center
    Phone: 216.445.6835

Fellowship Supervisors

Clinical Neuropsychology (Nevada)

Clinical Neuropsychology (Nevada)

Neuropsychology Postdoctoral Fellowship Program

The Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health (CCLRCBH) in Las Vegas, Nevada is now accepting applications for a two-year fellowship to begin August 2023 or later, with exact start date negotiable based on internship completion date. There are currently up to two fellowship positions: one in clinical neuropsychology and another offering 50% clinical neuropsychology and 50% in neuroimaging research pertaining to sex and gender differences in Alzheimer’s disease. The CCLRCBH is an outpatient neurology center specializing in neurodegenerative disease with distinct programs in Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias, movement disorders, and multiple sclerosis. The neuropsychology program currently consists of four neuropsychologists, Justin B. Miller, PhD ABPP-CN, Jessica Z.K. Caldwell, PhD, ABPP-CN, Christina G. Wong, PhD, and Shehroo B. Pudumjee, PhD, as well as a health psychologist, Lucille Carriere, PhD.

Both neuropsychology fellowship positions are structured as two year programs. Training adheres to Houston Conference Training Guidelines and will prepare fellows for board certification in neuropsychology by the American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP). We follow the scientist-practitioner model and emphasize training and development of psychologists who can assume leadership roles in research, teaching, and/or clinical service. Both positions are well-suited for individuals interested in pursuing a career in clinical service within an academic medical center.

Fellowship in Clinical Neuropsychology

Clinical training will include a core curriculum and specialized work with adults and older adults in our general clinical population. The majority of time will be devoted to outpatient neuropsychological assessment with optional, 6-month, minor rotations in behavioral health, the Women’s Alzheimer’s Prevention Clinic (WAPC), and focused research activities. Additional opportunities for intervention may be available and minor rotations are structured to cater to fellows’ interests and professional development trajectory. This fellowship is primarily clinical in nature; however, participation in related research will also be expected, either through development of independent projects or collaborating with ongoing faculty projects. Current ongoing research topics that fellows would have an opportunity to become involved with include analysis of brain imaging, biomarker, neuropsychological data, and social determinants of health from a local NIGMS-funded study of individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease and national databases; opportunities focused on rural health within our Nevada exploratory Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center (ADRC); NIA-supported investigation of stress and sex hormone impact on inflammation and brain-based biomarkers in patients of the WAPC at Cleveland Clinic; and ongoing investigations of psychometric properties of tests, technological advancements in neuropsychological assessment, and refining clinical diagnostic criteria.

Qualified applicants will have successfully completed requirements for a PhD or PsyD in clinical psychology from an APA- or CPA-accredited doctoral program prior to starting fellowship training. Competitive applicants will be those with evidence of specialization in neuropsychology, and clear interest in neurodegenerative disease, cognition, and/or neuroimaging, and demonstrated potential for scholarly productivity.

Fellowship in Clinical Neuropsychology (50%) and Neuroimaging Research (50%)

Clinical training will represent 50% of the fellow’s time, and will focus on neuropsychological assessment as described above for the Fellowship in Clinical Neuropsychology, but with a reduced caseload to allow for additional focus on research. Optional minor rotations may be available to the Neuropsychology/Neuroimaging Fellow depending on fellow experience and success in meeting assessment and research goals. Research will focus on sex differences or interactive sex and gender effects in Alzheimer’s disease, and will be conducted under the primary supervision of neuropsychologist Jessica Caldwell, PhD, who directs the WAPC and co-directs the Center for Neurodegeneration and Translational Neuroscience (CNTN). Dr. Caldwell’s NIA-funded R01 grant includes structural, resting state, and task-based fMRI data in women at risk for Alzheimer’s disease, with primary data analysis supported by research associates. Many secondary analyses are possible, including combining data from the R01 with clinical lifestyle variables from the WAPC, such as exercise, diet, mood, and cognitive activity. The CNTN is a clinically well-characterized cohort that includes structural and resting state MRI, as well as amyloid PET imaging data on individuals across the Alzheimer’s disease continuum and individuals with Parkinson’s disease. We are a highly collaborative group, and opportunities also exist for collaboration with additional faculty involved in neuroimaging research. 

Qualified applicants will have successfully completed requirements for a PhD or PsyD in clinical psychology from an APA- or CPA-accredited doctoral program prior to starting fellowship training, and will have a demonstrated background in image processing and data analysis (MRI and/or functional MRI in particular). Competitive applicants will have demonstrated potential for scholarly productivity. Experience in neurodegenerative disease or sex and gender differences would be an advantage.

Training Environment 

Fellows in both the programs described above will work within a rich interdisciplinary environment, including weekly a neuropsychology seminar and interdisciplinary didactic seminar jointly with Cleveland Clinic Main Campus, fact finding exercises, monthly ADRC consensus conference, invited lectures, and opportunities for collaboration with faculty across disciplines and departments. Fellows will be expected to participate in these activities. The stipend for fellows will approximate current NIH pay scales (approximately $61,600), and a strong benefits package is offered.

We encourage applications from individuals from diverse and underrepresented groups and are committed to supporting the needs of every trainee. Of particular relevance to international students, Cleveland Clinic Nevada has historically been successful in supporting those on student visas with employment authorization and/or those pursuing work visas over the course of fellowship. International students are encouraged to contact Dr. Shehroo B. Pudumjee: pudumjs@ccf.org, Dr. Christina G. Wong: wongc7@ccf.org, and Susan Farris: farriss@ccf.org to discuss their specific situation.

Application Process 

Interested candidates can direct any informal enquiries to the Training Director, Dr. Shehroo B. Pudumjee: pudumjs@ccf.org and Associate Training Director, Dr. Christina G. Wong:  wongc7@ccf.org.

Applications will be considered on a rolling basis. Interviews will be held via videoconference in December 2022 and January 2023. We anticipate holding an informal, virtual Open House to address applicant questions in early December 2022. The Clinical Neuropsychology Postdoctoral Residency Program in Nevada does not participate in the APPCN Resident Matching Program.

All application materials should be submitted as PDFs emailed to: Susan Farris, education coordinator: farriss@ccf.org. Recommendation letters should be emailed directly by letter writers to Susan Farris as well.

Please provide the following (incomplete applications will not be reviewed):

  1. A letter of interest describing relevant academic and training experiences, desired postdoctoral training objectives, perceived “fit” with this program, and future professional goals (please limit to 2 pages)
  2. Current curriculum vitae
  3. Three letters of reference, including at least two from individuals familiar with the applicant's academic and clinical training in neuropsychology
  4. A statement from the applicant's graduate school clinical training director indicating the applicant's status in the program and probability of completing the requirements for the doctorate prior to the fellowship year (waived for those already holding the doctorate)
  5. An official graduate transcript(s) (unofficial transcripts will be accepted for review, but official transcripts will be required prior to start date for invited applicants)
  6. Two de-identified clinical work samples
  7. Completed Fellowship Application form (access form by following this link: Please specify for which of the fellowships described above the application is intended on the first line.

Please note this fellowship occurs entirely on the Las Vegas campus and is distinct from fellowship opportunities at the Cleveland Clinic Main Campus in Ohio.

Neuropsychology Fellowship - Cleveland

Neuropsychology Fellowship - Cleveland

The Cleveland Clinic's postdoctoral fellowship in adult clinical neuropsychology is under the aegis of the Section of Neuropsychology in the Department of Neurology. The Neuropsychology Section currently consists of 13 neuropsychologists, 12 psychometrists, two post-doctoral fellows, and practicum students. The fellowship is designed for individuals who have completed a doctorate degree in psychology, and have a strong academic and clinical training background in the fundamentals of neuroscience and neuropsychological assessment.

Cleveland Clinic's Postdoctoral Fellowship Program in Neuropsychology is a founding member of the Association of Postdoctoral Programs in Clinical Neuropsychology (APPCN; www.appcn.org). The program operates in accordance to the INS-Division 40 guidelines (The Clinical Neuropsychologist, 1987, 1, 29-34) and the goals espoused by the Houston conference (Archives of Clinical Neuropsychology, 1998, 2, 203-240). Our postdoctoral positions are designed to provide fellows with didactics and experiences necessary for developing professional-level clinical interpretative and consultation skills while under the supervision of experienced neuropsychologists. We offer a major area of study in Clinical Neuropsychology, with opportunities for exposure in other areas as dictated by trainee interests. For example, fellows receive exposure to clinical research and education within the context of an internationally known tertiary medical center.

Program Description

Our fellowship begins on or about September 1st. The two-year experience will be divided into time periods that allow for general clinical neuropsychological training with particular age groups (children/adolescents, younger and older adults). Currently, only applicants with primary interests in adult neuropsychology are being considered. Fellows also will have the opportunity for specialization with a particular population (such as epilepsy patients), research, teaching (e.g., lectures to residents), supervision/mentoring of practicum students, and participation in didactics. During the first weeks of each rotation, training concentrates on skill building and refinement in the areas of test administration, test interpretation, and report writing. For the first 12 months, three 3-month rotations will be completed with adult patient populations and one 3-month rotation with pediatric populations. The last 12 months consist of rotations tailored as much as possible to meet the fellow’s specific interests and training needs; the ultimate goal is preparation for the initial professional position.

First “year” (12 months): Clinical Fundamentals

3 adult rotations, 1 pediatric rotation (three months each)

Examples of 1st-year weekly schedule:

  • September-November: 2 general adult / 1 epilepsy.
  • December-February: 2 general adult / 2 dementia.
  • March-May: 2 general adult / 2 DBS.
  • June-August: 2-3 pediatric.

Second “year” (12 months)

Advanced Specialization and Special Projects

Examples of specialized 2nd-year schedules:

  • A fellow with interests in dementia had rotations in general adult neuropsychology and movement disorders including deep brain stimulation. The clinical demands were adjusted to accommodate a year-long experience evaluating patients for dementia syndromes in the Center for Brain Health.
  • A fellow with interests in functional neurosurgery and research had rotations in adult epilepsy and movement disorders with a focus on neurosurgical candidates. The clinical demands were adjusted to accommodate a year-long clinical research project for which the fellow sought and received grant funding (Epilepsy Foundation) in the first year.

Neuropsychology Section

Our clinical evaluations integrate medical, neurological, and behavioral data with neuropsychological test findings to answer referral questions. Our referrals often consist of, but are not limited to, questions concerning:

  • Differential diagnoses (e.g., depression versus dementia, dementia of the Alzheimer's type versus Primary Progressive Aphasia).
  • Delineation of spared and impaired cognitive functions secondary to known central nervous system dysfunction.
  • Establishment of a neuropsychological baseline against which to monitor recovery or progression of central nervous system dysfunction.
  • Comparison of neuropsychological functioning prior to and following a variety of pharmacological, surgical, and behavioral interventions as part of ongoing treatment outcome evaluations and standard clinical care.
  • Assessment of cognitive/behavioral functions to assist with rehabilitation, management strategies and/or educational or employment placement.
  • Evaluation of cognitive status for the purpose of disability determination.

The Section of Neuropsychology provides primarily outpatient consultation and evaluation services for the staff of Cleveland Clinic and community referral sources. Currently, the Section of Neuropsychology receives the majority of its referrals from Adult and Pediatric General Neurology, the Center for Brain Health (memory disorders), the Epilepsy Center, the Center for Neurological Restoration (Movement disorders), the Mellen Center (Multiple Sclerosis), Neurosurgery, Burkhardt Brain Tumor Center, Adult and Child Psychiatry, Internal and Geriatric Medicine, Cardiology, Family Medicine, and Pediatric Oncology/Hematology.

A flexible battery approach is adopted by most Cleveland Clinic Staff Neuropsychologists. The Section uses a number of specialized test batteries for specific patient populations. For example, a formal pre- and post-surgery protocol is in place for epilepsy surgery candidates, and standard protocols are in place for evaluating candidates for  neurosurgical treatment of psychiatric or movement disorders (e.g., Parkinson's disease, essential tremor, Tourette’s syndrome).

The combination of a rich clinical referral base at Cleveland Clinic and an innovative service delivery model has created a strong trajectory of growth for the Section of Neuropsychology. More than 3,500 patients are referred for evaluation annually, making the Section of Neuropsychology one of the most clinically active neuropsychological services in the country for its size.

Fellowship – Clinical Component

The major area of study is clinical neuropsychological assessment. As such, the majority of fellows' time will be devoted to direct clinical service. A portion of this commitment can be focused on services directed at specific patient populations (e.g., epilepsy, pediatric, geriatric, or movement disorder patients). In addition, fellows are afforded the opportunity to work with culturally diverse populations including international patients who seek specialized health care at Cleveland Clinic.

Although the Section is largely a psychometrist-based service, we recognize the importance of direct patient contact in developing a strong clinical understanding of process variables and patient behaviors that underlie test performance. Consequently, the fellows will be responsible for testing some patients each week throughout the two-year fellowship. Typically, fellows will test most of their own patients during the first year. Fellows will have the opportunity to supervise psychometrists (and potentially undergraduate or graduate students), generally more often in the second year. It is anticipated that this assessment experience will provide the fellows with the opportunity to enhance their existing knowledge and experience with a variety of neuropsychological assessment procedures and neurological disorders.

Regarding clinical caseload, fellows are expected to see 3 patients per week in their first Adult rotation and 4 patients per week in their second and third Adult rotations, one of which they may staff (with psychometrist support). During the Pediatric rotation, fellows are expected to staff 2-3 patients per week with psychometrist support.

Beginning in the second year, fellows will initially see 4 patients per week, with the understanding that most of those patients will be tested by psychometrists. Clinical load will increase over the course of the second year to prepare for independent practice. Clinical expectations in the second year are somewhat flexible depending on the fellow’s expected career trajectory and goals following fellowship. The second year fellow will also assist with patient triage activities.

Assessment is only one component of the fellows' clinical duties. The primary goal of the fellows' clinical activities is to expand their expertise in clinical interpretation and reporting of neuropsychological data. Report writing and consultation with patients and other health-care professionals are, therefore, central to this postdoctoral experience. The fellows will also be expected to participate actively with members of the Section in one or more clinical team meetings (e.g., Epilepsy Surgery, DBS/MRgFUS Patient Management) on an ongoing basis.

Formal clinical supervision is provided on an individual basis to review cases. Informal supervision is also available as needed and staff typically have an open door policy.

Attendance and participation in the weekly neuropsychology seminar is required. Seminar is conducted in conjunction with staff and trainees at the Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health in Las Vegas via videoconference. Seminar presenters rotate weekly and include staff, fellows, and invited speakers from related disciplines. Each fellow will present 5 times per year on core neuropsychology topics and topics of their choice. The content of seminar is flexible and may be used to review topics of interest, ethical issues, noteworthy cases, research data, or other issues relevant to neuropsychology. Fact finding exercises (in both group and individual formats) will also occur during seminar time.

Formal written evaluations of the postdoctoral fellows' progress are prepared by the supervising Staff Neuropsychologist(s) at the conclusion of each rotation. Information is forwarded to the Cleveland Clinic's Graduate Medical Education (GME) office. In the course of these regularly scheduled evaluations, fellows are asked to evaluate the program. Performance is also assessed via additional clinical fact-finding exercises modeled after the American Board of Clinical Neuropsychology (ABCN)'s Oral Exam. This is conducted at the beginning of the first and second training years, and may be repeated more frequently as needed to monitor fellows' clinical skills. Fellows whose performance is not at an expected level of competence will be advised regarding the problem areas, and a specific plan to remediate those weaknesses will be developed per GME policies.

Fellowship – Research Activities

In keeping with the scientific basis of clinical neuropsychology, Cleveland Clinic's Section of Neuropsychology is actively involved in ongoing clinical research (e.g., epilepsy surgery, neurosurgical treatment of movement disorders, multiple sclerosis, and dementia).

Research exposure will be integrated into the fellowship experience. The Section maintains a number of IRB-approved patient registries and is involved in a number of ongoing collaborative research projects both within and outside the institution. Cleveland Clinic is highly supportive of research activities, and provides excellent statistical, computer, graphic art, photography and editorial support services. It is expected that the fellows will become involved in one or more of the existing research projects within the Section, with the goal of preparing at least one paper for publication and/or presentation at a national meeting. Independent and/or new collaborative research projects will be encouraged, and grant applications are highly supported. Travel time is provided to make presentations at professional meetings, and some financial support for travel is available in the second year, especially for first-authored papers based on work accomplished at Cleveland Clinic.

Terms and Conditions

Fellows must have completed all of the formal requirements for the doctorate before beginning postdoctoral training; appointments begin in September. Although the Cleveland Clinic's Clinical Neuropsychology Fellowship is designed as a two-year program, contracts are made on a year-to-year basis, with renewal for the second year being made by mutual consent. Note: Cleveland Clinic employees must be tobacco-free.

The fellowship currently carries a 12-month, first year salary of $61,609, which typically increases prior to the second year (current second year salary is $63,685). Fifteen days of vacation and five personal days of paid time away of provided each academic year. Comprehensive health, dental and vision insurance (fellow and immediate family) at minimal cost to the fellow are among the benefits provided. Salary determination, grievance process, allotment of vacation and meeting time, and other institutional procedures occur in accordance with the General Policies for Graduate Medical Education. Please see GME for additional details.

Neuropsychology Staff

The Neuropsychology Section was organized in 1985 and officially established as a formal patient care center within the Department of Psychiatry and Psychology at Cleveland Clinic in 1986. The Neuropsychology Section was later moved to the Department of Neurology in 2019. As neuropsychologists, we are members of the Professional Staff. Several staff members have academic appointments or pending appointments with Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine (CCLCM).

  • Ana Arenivas, PhD, MPH joined the section in 2021. She has a central interest in pediatric epilepsy and congenital/genetic conditions associated with seizures. Her primary appointment is in the Epilepsy Center, Neurological Institute where she works as a clinician scientist providing neuropsychological services to pediatric patients and conducting research in cognition in pediatric epilepsy and related genetic conditions. Additional background and interests include assessment with non-English speaking individuals and global research in tuberculous meningitis.
  • Kayela Arrotta, PhD joined the section in 2019 with an appointment in the Epilepsy Center. Her clinical work primarily involves conducting pre- and post-surgical epilepsy evaluations, although she also sees a small portion of patients within the general adult neuropsychology service. Her research interests are to improve the prediction of cognitive outcome following epilepsy surgery and understand the long-term functional implications of post-surgical cognitive changes.
  • Aaron Bonner-Jackson, PhD, ABPP-CN joined the Section in 2011 bringing expertise in neuropsychological assessment of dementia syndromes. He is the Director of the Clinical Neuropsychology Post-Doctoral Fellowship Program. His primary appointment is in the Center for Brain Health and his research interests include studies of progressive neurological conditions.
  • Robyn M Busch, PhD, ABPP-CN joined the Section in 2005 and took over as Head of the Section of Neuropsychology in 2020. She has a primary appointment in the Epilepsy Center, Neurological Institute and a secondary appointment in the Genomic Medicine Institute, Lerner Research Institute. Dr. Busch’s clinical and research interests focus on cognitive assessment and prediction of neurobehavioral (cognitive and mood) outcomes in individuals who undergo epilepsy surgery. Her current research program seeks to identify genetic and genomic factors that underlie neurobehavioral dysfunction in epilepsy or contribute to poor cognitive outcome following epilepsy surgery.
  • Pamela Dean, PhD, ABPP-CN, joined the Section in 2022 and has an appointment in the Center for General Neurology with a special interest in the evaluation and behavioral management of neurodegenerative disorders. Her research interests include both neurologic and rehabilitation populations respectively. Dr. Dean serves on several national neuropsychology professional organizations including holding leadership roles that focus on education, training, mentorship, supervision, and professional advocacy. Additionally she is proficient in American Sign Language and has an interest in providing neuropsychological evaluations to prelingually Deaf patients.
  • Darlene Floden, PhD, ABPP-CN joined the Section in 2007 and has appointments in the Center for Neurological Restoration (CNR) and Cerebrovascular Center. She primarily provides services to adult patients with movement disorders and patients with acute and chronic stroke. Part of her time is devoted to NIH funded research related to cognitive screening, frontostriatal brain circuitry, and surgical outcomes in deep brain stimulation and high frequency focused ultrasound.
  • Rachel Galioto, PhD, ABPP-CN joined the section in 2017 as an adult neuropsychologist with appointments in the Mellen Center for Multiple Sclerosis and general adult Neuropsychology. Her research primarily involves understanding factors associated with cognitive impairment in multiple sclerosis.
  • Patricia Klaas, PhD joined the Section in 2004 with clinical responsibilities in pediatric neuropsychology. Dr. Klaas' research interests involve memory and language issues in pediatric epilepsy surgery patients. Areas of interest also include head injury, congenital cardiac disorder, childhood stroke, and neurodevelopmental disorders. Current research focuses on cognitive assessment of individuals with PTEN mutations (with Dr. Busch), cognitive functioning in children with chronic kidney disease, phase II studies of new epilepsy medications, cognitive functioning in Continuous Slow Wave Sleep, and early medulloblastoma.
  • Kamini Krishnan, PhD, ABPP-CN joined the section in 2016 with dual appointments in general neurology and the Center for Brain Health (CBH) with a clinical specialty in neurodegenerative disorders. Dr. Krishnan’s research interest focuses on early identification and prevention of neurodegenerative disorders through multiple modalities including computerized assessment, cognitive rehabilitation, and neuroimaging.
  • Cynthia Kubu, PhD, ABPP-CN joined the Section in November 2001 to provide clinical services to adult patients with an emphasis on candidates for deep brain stimulation and MRI guided focused ultrasound at the present time. A significant portion of her time is devoted to NIH funded research related to ethics in the context of neurological disorders and treatment. She is active in the Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine of Case Western Reserve University (CWRU) and currently serves as the Interim Vice Dean for Faculty for the CWRU School of Medicine.
  • Katherine Reiter, PhD joined the section in 2019 as an adult neuropsychologist with appointments in the Center for Brain Health (CBH) and the general adult neuropsychology service. Her primary clinical interest is memory disorders with additional foci in stroke and traumatic brain injuries. Her research interests include the influence of Cognitive Reserve on age-related cognitive and brain structure changes.
  • Scott Sperling, PsyD, ABPP-CN joined the section in 2020 and has an appointment in the Center for Neurological Restoration (CNR). He provides services to patients undergoing evaluation for deep brain stimulation or high intensity focused ultrasound lesioning for the treatment of movement disorders, as well as adults and older adults with cognitive and memory complaints. He has a history of funded research and currently conducts studies investigating non-motor symptoms, the relationship between Ch4 degeneration and cognitive decline and neuropsychiatric symptoms, and the outcomes of neurosurgical interventions in patients with Parkinson’s disease. He is also an active leader in the areas of education, professional development, and advocacy.
  • Kelly Wadeson, PhD joined the Section in 2012, adding expertise in rehabilitation. Her primary appointment is in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation and she sees patients in Neuropsychology at least one day per week. Her clinical neuropsychology practice includes school-age children through adults.

Application Process

The Clinical Neuropsychology Postdoctoral Residency Program participates in the APPCN Resident Matching Program operated by National Matching Services (NMS; www.natmatch.com). The deadline for receipt of all application materials is Dec. 21 (or the next business day if the 21st falls on a weekend).

Applicants are encouraged to call or write for information or clarification of the program's description or opportunities. Applicants' rights to make a free choice among residencies are recognized and Cleveland Clinic complies fully with the stipulations of the Match.

Hear what current residents have to say about training at Cleveland Clinic

Application materials should be directed to:

Aaron Bonner-Jackson, PhD, ABPP-CN (for Ohio)
Program Director, Neuropsychology Fellowship
Cleveland Clinic
9500 Euclid Ave. (P57)
Cleveland, Ohio 44195
Phone: 216.444.2421
Fax: 216.445.7013

Please provide:

  • A letter of interest describing relevant academic and training experiences, desired postdoctoral training objectives, perceived "fit" with this program, and future professional goals.
  • Two brief paragraphs (no more than 250 words each) highlighting:
    1. Professional service, leadership, and/or advocacy work you have participated in, either formally or informally.
    2. A brief reflection on the importance of equity, diversity, and inclusion as it pertains to your professional development as a clinical neuropsychologist. This can include personal insights, experiences, or more broad thoughts as this relates to issues in the field.
  • Current curriculum vitae.
  • Three letters of reference, including at least two from individuals familiar with the applicant's academic and clinical training in neuropsychology.
  • A statement from the applicant's graduate school clinical training director indicating the applicant's status in the program and probability of completing the requirements for the doctorate prior to the fellowship year (waived for those already holding the doctorate). APPCN's Verification of Doctoral Training Form (APPCN Doctorate Verification) is acceptable for this purpose.
  • An official copy of the applicant's graduate transcripts.

Electronic submission of the above items by email in a Word or PDF file is acceptable. Please send email to: bonnera3@ccf.org.

Current Fellows

Current Fellows

2022-2023 Clinical Fellows

Health Psychology - Year 1

Marielle Collins, PhD
Graduate School: University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center

Seyma Saritoprak, PhD
Graduate School: Case Western university

Grace Tworek, PsyD
Graduate School: Nova Southeastern University

Kami McManus, PsyD
Graduate School: PA Immaculata College

Sylvia Shay, PsyD
Graduate School: The Wright Institute 

Anna Gernand , PsyD
Graduate School: Indiana State University

Neuropsychology - Cleveland

John Lace, PhD - Year 2
Graduate School: St Louis University

Ahmad Alsemari, PsyD - Year 1
Graduate School: William James College

Neuropsychology - Las Vegas

Sonakshi Arora, PhD
 Graduate School: Palo Alto University

Katherine Stypulkowski, PhD
 Graduate School: University of Colorado, Colorado Springs

Diversity & Inclusion

Diversity & Inclusion

The Center for Graduate Medical Education and Cleveland Clinic are united in a commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion in education as well as in the communities we serve. We value all people regardless of the many dimensions of identity and how those identities may intersect.

Discover more about the role diversity and inclusion plays and about our diversity and inclusion efforts.

Living in Cleveland

Living in Cleveland

Cleveland, an ethnically diverse, mid-sized city located on Lake Erie, features a host of cultural attractions, recreational activities, major sporting events and an exploding culinary scene. Cleveland is home to the second largest theater district in the U.S., a park system featuring 23,700 acres in 18 reservations, and is the birthplace of rock ’n’ roll, home to the Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Fame and Museum. Cleveland Clinic is located near the University Circle area, which is the cultural epicenter of Cleveland. This area features Severance Hall and the world-renowned Cleveland Orchestra, the Cleveland Museum of Art, several other museums, and Case Western Reserve University. Downtown Cleveland, home to all major sports venues and an exploding culinary scene, is approximately two miles from Cleveland Clinic’s main campus.

Living in Las Vegas

Living in Las Vegas

While many Las Vegas newcomers are awed by the nightlife and world of entertainment options, they are even more delighted with the myriad of housing options available citywide. Whether you are looking for rural seclusion, a lush, private master-planned community or high-rise living on the Las Vegas Strip, you will find the options endless.

Clark County contains Las Vegas, Henderson and North Las Vegas the three biggest cities in Southern Nevada. Clark County's population based on the most recent U.S. Census figures indicates we have reached nearly two million residents. Las Vegas is known as the entertainment capital of the world and over the last couple of decades has garnered accolades for its fast-growing population, entrepreneurial atmosphere, unlimited housing and vast employment options. Las Vegas continues to expand its non-gaming industry base and is becoming a notable education and research community. Henderson has been consistently measured as one of the fastest growing communities in the nation. Las Vegas' little sister, Henderson has a population of just over 250,000.

Just south of Las Vegas, Henderson is a vibrant suburb. Created for Basic Magnesium, Inc. defense plants during World War II, Henderson continues to evolve with the addition of its own entertainment and recreation. Henderson's main attraction is Lake Mead, the world's largest man-made lake and home to Hoover Dam.

North Las Vegas is the third fastest-growing city in the nation with a population exceeding 200,000, and it is vibrant and independent city. A proactive city government has led the way in creating a technology hub in the area. The city is home to the bulk of Southern Nevada's manufacturing facilities.

Located in the southeastern part of the valley, 25 miles from downtown Las Vegas and 10 miles outside of Henderson lies Boulder City, home of the Hoover Dam and Lake Mead National Recreation Area. This small community preserves the charm of "small" town U.S.A. just minutes from the one of the most exciting cities in the world. Controlled growth and thoughtful planning make Boulder City an ideal choice for those seeking a hometown free from gaming.

Planned Communities you might choose the mountain communities located in west and southwest Las Vegas. Mountain's Edge, Summerlin and Centennial Hills are all neighborhood communities that offer amazing vistas and landscapes. Southern Highlands in southwest Las Vegas is one of the newest areas near the airport and the trendy "south" Strip. You might prefer more established communities in the heart of the city near the Strip and resort corridor in Paradise Valley. There are also beautiful communities in Henderson just south of Las Vegas featuring championship golf courses and country clubs such as Green Valley Ranch, MacDonald's Highlands and Seven Hills.