Handbook

This course orientates clinical psychologists to the principles of neuropsychology and how neuropsychological processes can be disrupted. It builds on assumed knowledge (basic neuropsychology, psychopharmacology, neuroanatomy, test administration) that form part of the core competencies of registered psychologists that have previously completed Level 3 and 4 post-graduate training.  The course commences with refreshers concerning the assessment of major neuropsychological systems, including memory, executive function, behaviour, social cognition, language and perception and the assessment of premorbid abilities and performance validity.

The course then focuses on neuropsychological disorders that affect older adults, considering genetic, medical and psychosocial precursors to dementia, use of biomarkers and cognitive and behavioural assessments to facilitate differential diagnosis. Issues with respect to assessing the older adult and managing cognitive decline will be addressed. In addition, the course will focus on the major categories of neuropsychiatric disorders, including mood disorders, trauma and psychosis as well as comorbidities. The course will conclude with a focus on building mental health and resilience in these populations. This course is the first course you must enrol in, along with PSYC7237.

The course combines asynchronous lectures (1 – 2 hours), two-hour practical tutorials, and workshops. The focus will be on specific cases using problem-based learning approaches, for example, when discussing a case of Alzheimer’s Disease, the neuroanatomy, common neuropsychological profile (e.g. amnesia and aphasia), recent neuroscientific theories (e.g. of memory and language), psychopharmacological interventions, assessment approaches, cultural considerations, communication with other relevant professionals, report writing and remediation implications will be considered.  Students will be expected to take an active role in preparing for, presenting and discussing cases to foster opportunities for peer-to-peer learning.

While lectures will focus upon the basic elements of neuropsychology, the topic is a broad one and the study guide and reference lists provide the opportunity for in-depth study. It is expected that students will independently read on each topic discussed in class. In addition, students are encouraged to prepare for case tutorials in small groups, in order to hone skills in test interpretation and critical consideration of treatment approaches. All the tests discussed are available in the Test Library and students are encouraged to familiarise themselves with these as they come up in class. This is a unique opportunity to develop this knowledge base, because few professional settings will offer as expansive a resource in tests as does the UNSW Test Library. Finally, the material presented in this course will be of direct relevance when conducting neuropsychological assessments on placement. Lecture notes and references should be utilised heavily when taking on such clients.