Cognitive impairment is common in clients with substance use disorder, with prevalence rates ranging from 30-80% (Bates, Bowden & Barry, 2002), highlighting the importance of cognitive assessment and intervention in addiction settings. Research has shown improved diagnostic accuracy and functional outcomes following neuropsychology consultation across varying neurological disorders (Watt & Crowe, 2018), however, there is limited research exploring the impact of neuropsychology in an addiction setting. Demonstrating the role and value-add of neuropsychology in this context is critical to increasing access to services in order to meet demand.
Preliminary work from our addiction neuropsychology service has identified multiples areas of unmet need, enhanced understanding, and informed our clinical practice within this clinical cohort. In order to extend this work, this study aims to investigate the biopsychosocial factors associated with cognitive impairment in addition to the outcomes of accessing neuropsychological services for individuals with significant alcohol and polysubstance use.
To investigate the first aim we will conduct a retrospective analysis of our clinical database of clients seen for assessment since 2014. To investigate the second aim, we will conduct a prospective outcome study exploring the potential benefits of providing neuropsychological services to this clinical cohort. Baseline measures will be completed immediately prior to the neuropsychology assessment and will include measures of quality of life, alcohol and substance use, self-efficacy, emotional distress and questionnaires regarding the client’s understanding of their cognitive abilities and their presenting concerns. A follow up, approximately eight weeks following the client’s therapeutic feedback appointment will then be conducted to explore any changes within these variables. Outcome measures for the project will also include any new diagnoses conveyed as a result of the assessment, new recommendations for referrals and whether the client is eligible to access new funding or services in addition to changes in the measures administered at baseline.
Dr James Gooden, Clinical Neuropsychologist, NCCRED Clinical Research Scholar
Turning Point (Eastern Health); Monash Addiction Research Centre, Eastern Health Clinical School, Monash University
Dr Catherine Cox, Senior Clinical Neuropsychologist
Turning Point (Eastern Health)
Dr Vanessa Petersen, Clinical Neuropsychologist
Turning Point (Eastern Health)
Ms Georgia Bolt, Clinical Neuropsychologist
Turning Point (Eastern Health)
A/Prof Victoria Manning, Head of Research and Workforce Development
Turning Point (Eastern Health); Monash Addiction Research Centre, Eastern Health Clinical School, Monash University
Dr Shalini Arunogiri, Addiction Psychiatrist
Turning Point (Eastern Health); Monash Addiction Research Centre, Eastern Health Clinical School, Monash University
