Neuropsychological rehabilitation as history in the making

Abstract

Introduction: Regardless of whether it is beheld in its broad or narrow sense, neuropsychological rehabilitation (NR) postulates, as a premise, the necessity to be based on knowing (and relying on) commandments of neurocognitive organization. However, the early optimism regarding the productiveness of such an approach hasn’t been fulfilled either smoothly or regularly. Aim: The aim of this review is to focus on principal hubs that channeled the evolution of neuropsychological rehabilitation towards current empirically based, realistic, and more convincing approaches to the treatment of both neurodevelopmental and acquired cognitive disturbances. Methods: The topic is approached by comparing the main paradigms of NR (as) postulated in predominant literature and our contemporary practice. Results: The main facets directing present shifts in doctrines of neuropsychological rehabilitation ensue from increasing data supply on research-based comparisons of diverse NR methodologies and exploration of treatment effects using neuroimaging techniques, largely accumulated during the previous decade. Neuropsychological rehabilitation in our territory has been grounded on sound theoretical bases from its outset (Bojanin, 1979) and holds true potential for further development in line with modern highest standards. Conclusion: The theory of (neuro)cognitive organization is necessary but not sufficient precondition for NR. Neuropsychological rehabilitation requires functional models of the treatment itself; presently, their share gradually expands. The sum of knowledge enriched during the last decade involves a promise that NR might reach its true maturity in years to come.