Sept 2023

The brain and non-brain injury factors that can occur with concussion and the role Psychologists can play in supporting full recovery.

Our understanding of the neuropatholgy of concussion and associated conditions has developed considerably over recent years. Although there have been some positive changes, there are a number of myths and misunderstandings that continue to be entrenched within the medical and mental health systems. This misinformation not only does not support recovery, it can negatively impact it. Although concussion is sometimes called a mild traumatic brain injury there are also multiple non- brain injury factors that in clinical practice fall under the concussion umbrella, and which tend to be responsible for the more persistent concussion symptoms (PCS). Concussion is 100% treatable and does not have to be ‘the new normal’, but it is important to know what to focus on when providing treatment. Clinical psychologists can play a key role in this, including for those mental health clients where persistent concussion symptoms have also been present. The webinar will provide an overview of the neuropathology of concussion based on up- to-date research, and will break down the other factors that most often contribute to persistent concussion symptoms. Recommendations around multidisciplinary treatment based on current emperical evidence will then be presented, including those areas where clinical psychology can play a key role.

Vincent is a registered neuropsychologist and clinical psychologist, currently sub-contracting for two NZ-wide rehabilitation services (Habit Health and Active Plus) and providing ACC neuropsychological assessments across the country, as well as concussion MDT input and neuropsychology supervision. He graduated from the University of Otago in 2005 and has been working intermittently within the concussion field for over 13 years, as well as undertaking Clinical Psychology and Neuropsychology assessment and rehabilitation/therapy work within Corrections, Psychogeriatrics, Psychiatric acute inpatient, Neurorehbailitative, child development, and Neurology settings, as well as private work. He has worked under ACC contracts for Behavioural Support Services, Pain Management Services, Concussion Services, and Neuropsychology Services, and has contracted to multiple rehabilitation providers across the country.