When searching for a specialist to help treat brain problems associated with contact sports, look for a clinician who specializes in evaluating and treating brain disorders involving cognitive, mood, and behavioral difficulties. This doctor may be a neurologist (especially a cognitive or behavioral neurologist), a psychologist (especially a neuropsychologist), or a psychiatrist (especially a neuropsychiatrist).
Because diseases like CTE are neurodegenerative, a clinician who specializes predominantly in concussions or traumatic brain injury may not be appropriate. Rather, a clinician who understands disorders such as Alzheimer's disease, frontotemporal dementia, and related conditions may be more appropriate.
To learn about which type of doctor to see, and what to discuss with your doctor, watch this video featuring Dr. Robert Stern, director of clinical research at the Boston University CTE Center:
Credit: Concussion Legacy Foundation