Meet Dr. Rudy Hatfield, Neuropsychologist
Understanding the Brain. Supporting Every Individual.
Hi, I’m Dr. Rudy Hatfield.
My journey into neuropsychology began quite unexpectedly — while I was working as a professional boxer. Over time I saw people I came into contact within boxing and kick-boxing circles who were experiencing early‐onset dementia and other neurological issues. That sparked a deep curiosity in me about how the brain, behavior, trauma and environment all connect.
I earned my PhD from the Wayne State University where I completed my internship at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), working on the psychiatric floor, in pain management, and with PTSD. I then returned to University of Michigan for my fellowship, where much of my work centered on the inpatient psychiatric unit. I spent over six years in the University of Michigan hospital systems with my internships, fellowships, and even working part-time as a consultant. I’ve also worked at the Detroit Medical Center, the Covenant Hospital System in Saginaw, Private Practice, and consulted with numersous nursing home facilities and clinics throughout Michigan. These experiences gave me a broad perspective on brain functioning, resilience, and how every person’s path is unique.
If you’re wondering, “Where do I even begin?”
You may be asking yourself:
“Why can’t I seem to keep pace in my daily thinking or feeling like I used to?”
“What’s really going on when I struggle with transitions, focus, or memory?”
“Am I just aging faster, or is there something else here I can address?”
You’re not alone. I believe cognitive challenges, neurodivergent profiles and brain‐behavior differences are not “broken.” They’re simply variations of how a person relates to their environment—and in my work, I focus on how to support each unique individual.
My Approach
I specialize in working with children and adults who may be living with neurodivergence (such as ADHD, autism spectrum, early-onset cognitive change) or navigating brain/mind differences due to trauma, injury, or the aging process.
I do not believe in a cookie-cutter approach to neuropsychological testing or behavioural support. Every individual lies somewhere on a continuum, and that’s completely normal. My goal is to identify where someone is on that continuum and what we can do to support them.
My testing and assessment environment is built around flexibility, compassion, and respect. Whether the client is a child or an adult, the process is designed to meet you exactly where you are — with minimal stress, maximum understanding, and clear recommendations that align with your life, strengths, and goals.
I hold the motto: “You can’t always control what’s happening in your brain or body—but you can control how you respond and what supports you bring in.”
Let’s Work Together
If even one person can better understand themselves and take steps toward clearer functioning because of my work, then all the effort has been worth it. I’d be honored to partner with you or your family in this journey — to make sense of where you are, and to build a path forward with more clarity, confidence and hope.