Key Topics in Clinical Neuropsychology : From Science to Practice

This essential text provides a concise and engaging introduction to the science and practice of clinical neuropsychology. It takes readers on a journey beginning with the history of the discipline, through exploring some of the classic case studies in neuropsychology, which have brought valuable insights into understanding how the brain works, even before we could see it in action.

Early chapters look at the beginnings of the field and the impact that the emergence of neuroimaging and the use of different research methodologies have had on the development of the discipline. Later chapters focus on the application of this knowledge to the diagnosis and rehabilitation of neurological conditions. Using real-life stories and case examples, the book goes on to examine the power of adopting a neuropsychologically-informed approach towards achieving positive societal change. It concludes by considering the role of the neuropsychologist of the future in a fast-paced globalised world where digital technologies and AI take centre stage. Whilst focusing mainly on clinical neuropsychology, the book also taps into knowledge, methods, and examples from experimental neuropsychology to give students a good understanding of how neuropsychology has contributed to the knowledge of brain-behaviour relationships and its role in practice and policy.

Key Topics in Clinical Neuropsychology: From Science to Practice is invaluable reading for undergraduate students of psychology. It may also be of interest to undergraduate students from other fields, postgraduate students intending to pursue a career in neuropsychological settings, and professionals from various disciplines, including social work, nursing, and allied health and law, who wish to get a better understanding of how neurological injury or illness affect behaviour.

Sara da Silva Ramos is a chartered psychologist, senior research fellow at Brainkind, a UK charity, and visiting researcher at the University of Surrey. Her research focuses on brain injury outcomes and rehabilitation. She values multidisciplinary collaboration and is passionate about communicating science and research to all audiences.

Christopher Byrne is a senior clinical lecturer at the University of Liverpool and works clinically within the NHS (North Wales Brain Injury Service). His interests include neuropsychological assessment and neurorehabilitation following acquired brain injury. His research has been recognised by the British Neuropsychological Society; he has received the Humphreys and Riddoch Prize.

Rudi Coetzer is the research director of Brainkind and is an honorary professor at the School of Psychology, Bangor University. He previously worked as a consultant neuropsychologist in the NHS for 23 years.