The Handbook of Clinical Neuropsychology

Book excerpt: The past 30 years have seen the field of clinical neuropsychology grow to become an influential discipline within mainstream clinical psychology and an established component of most professional courses. It remains one of the fastest growing specialities within mainstream clinical psychology, neurology, and the psychiatric disciplines. Substantially updated to take account of these rapid developments, the new edition of this successful handbook provides a practical guide for those interested in the professional application of neuropsychological approaches and techniques in clinical practice. With chapters by leading specialists, it demonstrates the contribution that neuropsychological approaches can make to the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of a range of brain disorders, as well as addressing the special considerations when treating children and the elderly. As before, the book is divided into 10 sections, covering everything from methodological and conceptual issues, developmental and paediatric neuropsychology, funcional neuroanatomy, and the historical context. Throughout, the content draws on contemporary neuroscientific techniques, focusing on the methods of functional imaging, cognitive psychology, cognitive neuropsychology, neuropsychiatry and cognitive rehabilitation. It also provides background information on laboratory and research techniques, as well as covering relevant neurology and psychiatry. The book will be essential for trainee neuropsychologists, students and teachers in the clinical and cognitive neurosciences/psychology, neurobiologists, neurologists, neurosurgeons and psychiatrists.