David Nathaniel Hawkey
Psychological Services Center, USA
Posters & Accepted Abstracts: J Psychiatry
Neuropsychological assessment is the process of utilizing psychological testing techniques to understand brain-behavioral relationships. In the practice of child psychology, it becomes increasingly important to have a solid understanding of brain functioning in relationship to development. There continues to be considerable need for mental health practitioners working with children and teens to have an understanding of neuropsychological assessment techniques in an effort to provide more accurate diagnoses and treatment plan strategies. In addition, pediatric neuropsychologists are tasked to integrate traditional neuropsychology techniques with an understanding of brain development between the ages of 0 to 25 years. Further, factors, such as attachment, early childhood relations and experiences can have profound impacts on how the brain develops and performs its functions. How do we assess a brain that is constantly changing over time? What sorts of predictions can we make about a child or teenā??s brain and behavioral functioning based on history and performance on psychological tests? The presenter will discuss strategies to apply levels of neuro-anatomy understanding into general testing practices, as well as discuss the relative importance of psychological testing or at least being able to interpret and understand a psychological testing profile. In addition, the presenter will discuss the importance of utilizing a domain of functioning approach to neuro-psychological testing to offer a comprehensive understanding of a youth patientā??s patterns of strength and difficulty. Further, the presenter will discuss how testing practitioners can function as an invaluable consultant to schools, psychiatric and medicine practices to ensure the best care for their young patients.
Email: davidhawkeypsyd@gmail.com