Neuropsychology
What is Neuropsychology?
Neuropsychology is a sub-specialty of clinical psychology, specializing in the relationship between the brain, thinking, and behavior. A neuropsychologist has expertise in assessing and treating problems of cognitive skills, psychological functions and behavior, as they relate to the brain and central nervous system.
What is a Neuropsychological Evaluation?
A neuropsychological evaluation involves meeting with the neuropsychologist to discuss your concerns and then going through a series of tests to get a good understanding of the types of difficulties that you may be experiencing and potential causes. The evaluation can give you a good sense of what is going on and help to guide treatment to improve your day to day functioning. A neuropsychological evaluation can last from a couple of hours to most of the day, depending on the patient and his or her individual needs. Treatment recommendations may include referrals for medications and/or therapies to address cognitive and emotional
issue.
What are some changes that can occur due to the diagnosis and treatment of a brain tumor?
Changes can occur in your physical functioning, as well as cognitive (i.e. thinking) abilities. Skills such as your memory, language and reasoning can change. There can also be changes in how you are doing emotionally, as well as in your personality and behavior, all directly related due to the effects of the brain tumor. These changes can also be related to surgery, chemotherapy and radiation.
To learn more about memory changes and tips for improving memory,
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For more information, please click a number below:
1. To find a Neuropsychologist
2. Programs for Neuro-Cognitive Retraining
3. ABTA Resources
4. Organizations and Web Sites
1. TO FIND A NEUROPSYCHOLOGIST
When seeking a neuropsychologist, one factor to consider is whether or not the psychologist is board certified. Board certification refers to the certificate received once post-training examinations have been successfully passed. This is a mark of high distinction in the profession. Your neurologist or neurosurgeon can help you find a board certified neuropsychologist. You can also contact the following professional organizations.
AMERICAN ACADEMY OF CLINICAL NEUROPSYCHOLOGY
www.theaacn.org
To locate a board certified neuropsychologist for children, adolescents or adults in your area.
AMERICAN BOARD OF PEDIATRIC NEUROPSYCHOLOGY
www.abpdn.org
To locate a board certified pediatric neuropsychologist in your area.
2. PROGRAMS FOR NEURO-COGNITIVE RETRAINING
Cognitive retraining programs are available to help individuals who have cognitive deficits. These programs can assist in the areas of attention, memory, information processing and executive functioning (decision making). A neuropsychologist can guide you in a training program. Some programs are offered at community colleges, as well as at major medical centers and universities.
Our “Becoming Well Again Through…” series includes articles on Cognitive Retraining, Rehabilitative Medicine and Speech Pathology Services. If you would like more information on strategies for improving memory, please email us at socialwork@abta.org
AMERICAN PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION
Division 40: Clinical Neuropsychology
www.div40.org
Offers information about neuropsychology, links and resources.
BRAIN INJURY ASSOCIATION OF THE USA
800-444-6443
www.biausa.org
BIA has a network of more than 40 state affiliates, as well as hundreds of local chapters and support groups across the U.S. Providing information, education and support to assist those living with a brain injury and their family members.
NATIONAL ACADEMY OF NEUROPSYCHOLOGY
www.nanonline.org
Offer links to organizations, books and software.
NEUROPSYCHOLOGY CENTRAL
www.neuropsychologycentral.com
Offers basic information for the non-professional, literature, links to organizations, software and an internet forum.
December 2009
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