Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) Psychologist

Advocate Health; Charlotte (NC); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Advocate Health seeks a psychologist to join a new Functional Neurological Disorder clinic in Charlotte, NC. You will provide diagnostic evaluations, evidence-based treatment, and integrated care for motor and sensory FND and related conditions.

The role includes leading staff training, shaping clinic workflows, and collaborating with neurology, PT/OT, and behavioral health to improve patient outcomes. Doctoral Degree in Clinical Psychology, NC license eligibility or licensure, and BLS

Qualifications

• Doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology from an APA‑accredited program.
• License eligible or licensed as a Licensed Practicing Psychologist by the NC State Board.
• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification.
• Experience with neurological or behavioral health disorders; FND exposure valued.

Responsibilities

• Conduct diagnostic evaluations and DSM-aligned assessments.
• Design individualized treatment plans for FND presentations.
• Lead staff training and shape clinic workflows and protocols.
• Collaborate with neurology, PT/OT, and behavioral health to coordinate care and outcomes.

Skills

Psychological assessment

DSM diagnosis

Evidence-based therapy

Staff supervision

Program development

Interdisciplinary collaboration

Education

Doctoral Degree in Clinical Psychology

Job description

The FND Psychologistwill serve as a core member of a new multidisciplinary Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) clinic, providing diagnostic evaluation, evidence-based treatment, and integrated care for patients with motor and sensory FND, functional seizures, and related conditions. This role combines clinical expertise with program development, offering a unique opportunity to shape workflows, patient care models, and collaborative strategies across neurology, behavioral health, and rehabilitation services.

In addition to direct patient care - including assessment, diagnosis, and individualized treatment planning - the FND Psychologist will lead initiatives to train staff, establish community partnerships, and develop scalable growth plansfor future expansion. This is an ideal role for a clinician who thrives in innovative environments and is passionate about advancing care for patients with functional neurological disorders.

Essential Functions

Clinical Assessment & Diagnosis

• Conduct comprehensive psychological assessments, including diagnostic interviews, screening for comorbid mental health conditions, and evaluation of illness beliefs and functional impact.
• Formulate accurate diagnoses in accordance with DSM guidelines, differentiating FND from other neurological and psychiatric conditions.

Treatment Planning & Delivery

• Design individualized treatment plans tailored to FND presentations, incorporating behavioral strategies, psychoeducation, and functional rehabilitation goals.
• Provide evidence-based psychotherapeutic interventions, such as:
  • Retraining and Control Therapy (ReACT)
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for FND and functional seizures
  • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
  • Trauma-informed approaches when indicated
• Collaborate with PT/OT to reinforce retraining strategies, address avoidance patterns, and support functional restoration.
• Deliver psychoeducation to patients and families about FND mechanisms, prognosis, and treatment rationale.

Multidisciplinary Collaboration

• Serve as a core member of the FND clinic team, working alongside neurologists, physical therapists, and other specialists to deliver integrated care.
• Participate in case conferences and interdisciplinary rounds to align treatment strategies and optimize patient outcomes.

Program Development & Growth

• Assist in developing and refining clinic protocols, referral pathways, and treatment workflows.
• Establish partnerships with external therapy facilities and community organizations to support continuity of care.
• Develop and implement staff and physician training programs on FND diagnosis, treatment principles, and communication strategies.
• Contribute to strategic planning for clinic growth, including scalability of services and volume projections.

Supervision & Education

• Provide clinical supervision to Psychologist I, predoctoral interns, and graduate practicum students.
• Prepare and deliver educational materials for internal stakeholders and external partners.

Documentation & Quality Improvement

• Maintain clear, timely, and accurate clinical documentation in the electronic health record.
• Track outcomes, support data collection, and participate in quality improvement initiatives.
• Manage crisis situations with appropriate interventions and assessments.
• Prepare discharge plans and guide patients through the termination process, ensuring continuity of care and follow-up resources.

Education, Experience and Certifications

• Doctoral Degree in Clinical Psychology from an APA-approved training program.
• License eligible or currently licensed as a Licensed Practicing Psychologist by the N.C. State Board of Examiners of Practicing Psychologists.
• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification required per policy guidelines.
• Experience with neurological or behavioral health disorders preferred; prior exposure to FND or complex somatic symptom disorders strongly valued.

Key Attributes for Success

• Strong ability to work in a multidisciplinary environment and lead clinic development initiatives.
• Expertise in evidence-based psychological interventions for functional disorders.
• Excellent communication and training skills for educating staff and patients.
• Strategic thinking for program growth and scalability.