Supporting AOD clients with cognitive impairment: what clinicians need to know

Working with cognitively impaired clients in AOD settings can be a significant challenge, particularly when access to assessment services and resources are limited. Cognitive difficulties may arise from a range of aetiologies including acquired brain injury, mental health, substance use, or neurodevelopmental weaknesses and can have a significant impact on treatment outcomes and recovery.

This webinar will provide attendees with a practical understanding of:

• Cognitive functioning & key indicators of impairment;
• Common aetiologies and modifiable risk factors for cognitive impairment;
• Implementing strategies to address cognitive changes including compensatory strategies and lifestyle factors.

Dr James Gooden is a Clinical Neuropsychologist, clinician researcher and National Centre of Clinical Research on Emerging Drugs (NCCRED) Scholar based at the Turning Point Neuropsychology Clinic in Victoria, where he provides specialised neuropsychological assessments in response to diagnostic and support related referrals for AOD clients. He has a strong interest in AOD, brain injury and adult neuropsychology and maintains an ongoing research profile in the clinic and through affiliations with Monash University and NCCRED. He has presented at a range of national and international conferences and delivered training across the AOD sector.

Dr Vanessa Petersen is a Clinical Neuropsychologist at Turning Point specialising in diagnostic clarification of substance-related cognitive disorders. Her experience in the AOD sector, along with tertiary paediatric mental health and neurology, demonstrates her passion for helping people with cognitive impairment. Vanessa’s past research explored substance use, sleep and cognition, and MDMA neurotoxicity. Her current research investigates the interplay between AOD, mental health and prescribed substances on cognition. She has presented at both national and international conferences and runs statewide training across the AOD sector.