DistanCE Static Courses

Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorders from a Neuropsychological Perspective 

(3 CE Credits)

As more interdisciplinary research has been conducted on autism in recent years, our view of this complex neurodevelopmental disorder has dramatically changed. This presentation will review the changes in diagnostic criteria that will be introduced in DSM-V and discuss the challenges of diagnosis at various developmental stages. Recent research on the underlying genetic and neurobiological causes of autism spectrum disorders will be reviewed, with an emphasis on how this affects our understanding of the behavioral phenotype in autism. The impact of early intervention will be discussed as well as the role of the pediatric neuropsychologist in working with children with autism spectrum disorders.

Learning Objectives:
  • Explain changes to the diagnostic criteria for autism spectrum disorders that will be introduced in DSM-V.
  • Describe the need for early intervention in these children.
  • Describe recent research on the underlying genetic and neurobiological causes of autism spectrum disorders.
  • Apply knowledge gained from a review of the research to conceptualize the specific behavioral phenotype of autism spectrum disorders and be able to discuss the role of a pediatric neuropsychologist in the conceptualization, diagnosis, and treatment of autism spectrum disorders.

Presented by:
Natacha Akshoomoff, Ph.D.
University of California, San Diego

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An MMPI-2-RF Update for Neuropsychologists 

(3 CE Credits)

Five years after its release, the MMPI-2-RF is used widely in neuropsychological evaluations. Over 170 peer reviewed studies of the test have been published, many in neuropsychology journals. This workshop provides an update on the research base available to guide use of the instrument in a broad range of settings and types of assessments, including intake to chronic pain treatment programs, pre-surgical psychological screenings, clinical evaluations, and forensic examinations. The literature available to guide MMPI-2-RF interpretation in these settings will be reviewed first, followed by presentation of a series of case studies. In keeping with the theme of this year’s conference, new data on MMPI-2-RF findings across the adult life span will be presented.

Learning Objectives:

  • Identify, classify, and cite MMPI-2-RF research.
  • Utilize peer reviewed data to guide MMPI-2-RF interpretation.
  • Critically analyze the association between age and MMPI-2-RF scores when using the instrument.
Presented by:
Yossef S. Ben-Porath, Ph.D.
Kent State University

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Lifespan Issues in Moderate-Severe Traumatic Brain Injury

(3 CE Credits)

This presentation will review the most common causes, physiological and anatomical characteristics, and cognitive and psychosocial sequelae of complicated mild to severe traumatic brain injury at various points across the lifespan. Similarities, as well as differences, will be reviewed between risk for, causation of, and manifestation of traumatic brain injury in children, young adults, and senior elderly. Advances in evidence-based diagnostic procedures and interventions will be described. Long-term outcome data with regard to injuries sustained earlier in life will also be discussed. Particular attention will be paid to predictors of various cognitive and psychosocial outcomes, and how demographic and psychological variables may either moderate or mediate such outcomes. Specific vulnerabilities of those at both of the extreme ends of the age spectrum to sequelae of complicated mild to severe injuries will be illustrated.
Level: Advanced

Learning Objectives:
  • Review neuroimaging as relevant to moderate-severe traumatic brain injury (TBI).
  • Appreciate construct and criterion validity of psychometric tests in samples with TBI.
  • Understand differences between pediatric, adult, and geriatric TBI.
  • Be aware of long-term consequences of TBI that is sustained early in life.
Presented by:
Jacobus Donders, Ph.D.
Chief Psychologist, Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital

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