1. Clinical Neuropsychology
Vicki Veroff, Ph.D.
OPQ, CPA, AQNP, CADDRA

2. What is neuropsychology?
Neuropsychology focuses on the impact of brain dysfunction on cognitive, behavioural and emotional functioning.
Clinical neuropsychologists can focus on assessment, management and/or rehabilitation of cognitive, memory, sensorimotor, attention, executive, social and emotional functioning for clients with neurological and/or neuropsychiatric disorders.
Clinical Neuropsychologists integrate medical, psychiatric and occupational aspects of rehabilitation into effective and focused treatment planning.

3. Neuropsychological vs Mental Disorders
Psychologists can diagnose “mental disorders,” defined as:
« clinically significant disorders characterized by a
change in thought process, mood or behaviour,
associated with altered mental functioning. »
The evaluation of “neuropsychological disorders” focuses on the link between clinical disorders and possible brain changes, dysfunctions or diseases.
Sometimes there is overlap, e.g., diagnosing
disorders such as ADHD, learning disabilities
and mood disorders.

4. Criteria for Accreditation in Quebec - Theoretical
Accreditation requires five courses at the university or graduate level, containing the following elements:
1 course on neuroanatomy, brain functioning and brain development.
1 course on theories, principles and models of neuropsychology and neuro-psychopathology.
1 course on neuropsychological evaluation.
Choice of 2 courses in or related to neuropsychology.

5. Criteria for Accreditation in Quebec - Practical
Supervised stages or internships in a clinical setting, dealing with clients who suffer from neuropsychological disorders. Requirements are:
1500 hours in clinical neuropsychology, which must include 562 hours of client contact (375 direct client hours).
187 hours of supervision in neuropsychology, which must include 94 hours of individual supervision.

6. Problem Areas Learning deficits/disabilities
Specific Learning Disabilities
Dyslexia, Dysgraphia, Mathematics Disability, Non-Verbal Learning Disability
Intellectual Disability
Neurodevelopmental disorders
ADHD
Oppositional Defiant Disorder
Autism Spectrum Disorders
Speech/language/communication disorders and delays

7. Problem Areas cont. Genetic disorders Acquired or induced disorders
Fragile X, Down Syndrome, Chromosomal syndromes
Acquired or induced disorders
Cerebral palsy
Fetal alcohol syndrome
Brain injury
Stroke/Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
Post-concussion syndrome
Toxic exposure (neurotoxins)
Post-chemo deficits
Parkinson’s
Dementia/Alzheimer’s

8. Problem Areas cont. Schizophrenia/Schizoaffective Disorder
Anxiety Disorders
Bipolar Disorder/Mania
Major Depressive Disorder
Personality Disorders
Addictions
Tourette’s
PANDAS

9. The puzzle of neuropsychology

10. Assessment process History-taking/clinical interview
Behavioural observations
Selection of tests and measure
Administration of tests and measures
Interpretation and diagnosis
Provision of feedback
Treatment planning
Report Writing

11. Treatment process Identification of intervention targets
Specification of intervention needs
Formulation of an intervention plan
Implementation of the plan
Monitoring and adjustment to the plan as needed
Assessment of the outcome

12. Neurocognitive Interventions
Cogmed Working Memory Training
Bio-Acoustical Utilization Device
Alpha-Stim
Mindfulness Meditation
qEEG Neurofeedback

13. Clinical Examples Jack, 24; Graphic Design Student
Sylvia, 55; Bookkeeper
Emily, 14; Grade 8 Student
Joaquin, 5; Daycare Attendee