Handbook

This course builds on Neuropsychology 1 & 2 (PSYC7240 and PSYC7241) by focusing on interventions for children, adults and older adults who have neuropsychological disorders. The course is based around workshops that address major tenets in neuropsychological interventions, (1) clinical psychological approaches in people with neuropsychological disorders (2) cognitive remediation of neuropsychological disorders  (3) behaviour management and carer support. Throughout this course, the scientist practitioner model is emphasised, specifically trainees will be trained to understand the importance of evidence-based practice, procedures in how to evaluate evidence and how and when to use practice guidelines (information that is additionally covered in NPEP 1).  As a result of the teaching and learning strategies outlined in this course, it is expected that students who have completed PSYC7242 will be confidently able to research, evaluate and select appropriate interventions to address neuropsychological disorders from childhood through to adulthood, to adapt these to take into account the cultural, familial and community context and appreciate how a neuropsychologist operates within a multidisciplinary team.

Specifically, trainees will learn to consider how cognitive behavioural and counselling approaches they are already familiar with can be adapted to facilitate functioning in people with neuropsychological disorders. They will also be introduced to how cognitive rehabilitation based on brain plasticity has been applied to a range of neuropsychological disorders (e.g. social cognition, spatial neglect, self-awareness). In addition, they will learn about behavioural approaches to improving interpersonal function and strategies for carer support. They will also appreciate how these approaches can be combined for maximum effect.

The course combines day workshops with asynchronous lectures and tutorials. The content is designed to focus on specific cases using problem-based learning approaches. Thus, for example, when discussing a case of an adult with traumatic brain injury, the common neuropsychological and behavioural difficulties will be discussed and strategies for intervention canvassed and compared in the context of cultural considerations and the role of other relevant professionals.  Students will be expected to take an active role in preparing for, presenting and discussing cases. Many treatment manuals 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 intervention manuals as does the UNSW Test Library. Finally, the material presented in this course will be of direct relevance when conducting neuropsychological assessments and implementing interventions on placement. Lecture notes and references should be utilised heavily when taking on such clients.