As a subspeciality of psychology, neuropsychology refers to the investigation into the complex properties of the brain that give rise to our behaviour, cognition, and emotions.
Hannes has a special interest towards the relationships between brain functioning and behaviour. He is particularly curious about the alterations that occur in cognition, emotion, and behaviour as a consequence of the changes in the structural and functional integrity of the brains of individuals who have been affected by neurodegenerative disorders (e.g., Alzheimer’s and Parkinsons) or acquired brain injury (ABI) (e.g., Traumatic Brain Injury and Stroke).
ASSESSMENT
In order to establish whether a certain function of the brain is impaired, an objective and comprehensive assessment is generally relied on to determine a wide range of cognitive and behavioural areas of functioning. The findings of these neuropsychological assessments are used to inform recommendations for rehabilitation and treatment.
Neuropsychological evaluations can provide useful information about the impact of an individual’s limitations on his or her educational, social, and vocational adjustment. Because many individuals with neurologic disorders such as degenerative disease and acquired brain injury vary widely in the rate at which each disorder progress or improves, the most meaningful way to equate their level of neurobehavioural functioning is to assess their behaviour using neuropsychological procedures.
PSYCHOTHERAPY
Hannes’ neuropsychological interest and focus stretches beyond merely assessing for strengths and deficits in neuro-compromised individuals, but includes the provision of psychotherapeutic treatment to individuals with brain injury and neurologic disorders. It is well known that brain injury, irrespective of type, can cause extensive neuropsychological consequences, and when compared to the general population, individuals with for instance ABI demonstrate a greater risk for experiencing psychological distress and mood disorders.
For example, depression has widespread consequences on the well-being of ABI patients. It generally affects their quality of life, participation in activities of daily living, and overall cognitive functioning. It often results in increased rates of hospitalization and greater caregiver burden. Depression furthermore reduces the rate by which patients return to work, and negatively affects social relationships. Hannes affirms that if the general goal of psychotherapy and brain injury rehabilitation is to assist individuals to live a meaningful life that holds purpose and value, then treatment effectiveness will greatly depend on its ability to support individuals through psychotherapeutic treatment to redefine themselves following the adjustments that accompany brain injury.