Neuropsychology

Neuropsychology is the field in which experts study the functional relationships between the brain, cognition (processes that enable the acquisition/application of knowledge and skills) and behaviour.

The field includes scientific research, clinical diagnosis and rehabiliation.

Causes

Neuropsychology can be used when patients have acquired brain damage. It can be used for the following causes:

  • Stroke
  • Traumatic brain injury
  • Tumours
  • Epilepsy
  • Inflammatory or degenerative diseases (e.g., Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, etc.)

Diagnosis

In neuropsychology, the diagnosis is made by the doctor, after an assessment of several hours.  However, neuropsychologists can analyse whether or not a behavioural picture is consistent with pathology, or they can create a neuropsychological profile that the doctor can interpret on the basis of the various tests performed.
The treatment pathway in neuropsychology usually includes: Medical history, tests and then an examination report. 

After taking a medical history (socio-medical interview), the neuropsychologist prepares a report consisting of the results of standardised psychometric tests.

The tests depend on age and level of education. Various cognitive, sensory and motor functions are analysed and evaluated.

Treatment

The therapy takes place in sessions of 30 to 60 minutes. The treatment itself attempts to re-educate or reorganise a function, thereby compensating for a deficit.

Specific rehabilitation sessions, adapted to the needs of the patient, help to achieve a satisfactory level of autonomy in the activities of daily and professional life, this autonomy varies from case to case and is always nuanced.

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