Role of clinical neuropsychology in deep brain stimulation: Review of the literature and considerations for clinicians

ABSTRACT

Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) is an effective surgical therapy for several neurological movement disorders. The clinical neuropsychologist has a well-established role in the neuropsychological evaluation and selection of surgical candidates. In this article, we argue that the clinical neuropsychologist’s role is much broader, when considered in relation to applied psychologists’ core competencies. We consider the role of the clinical neuropsychologist in DBS in relation to: assessment, formulation, evaluation and research, intervention or implementation, and communication. For each competence the relevant evidence-base was reviewed. Clinical neuropsychology has a vital role in presurgical assessment of cognitive functioning and psychological, and emotional and behavioral difficulties. Formulation is central to the selection of surgical candidates and crucial to intervention planning. Clinical neuropsychology has a well-established role in postsurgical assessment of cognitive functioning and psychological, emotional, and behavioral outcomes, which is fundamental to evaluation on an individual and service level. The unique contribution clinical neuropsychology makes to pre- and postsurgical interventions is also highlighted. Finally, we discuss how clinical neuropsychology can promote clear and effective communication with patients and between professionals.

KEYWORDS:

• Clinical neuropsychologist
• deep brain stimulation
• neuropsychology
• surgery

Notes

¹For example, following the Specialties and Proficiencies of Professional Psychology Competencies Conference, in Arizona, Rodolfa et al. (2005) developed a framework in which the “functional” competencies of professional psychologists include: assessment/diagnosis/conceptualization, intervention, consultation, research/evaluation, supervision/teaching, and management/administration.