HELP University establishes first private centre for neuropsychology in Malaysia

SHAH ALAM, Nov 24 (Bernama) -- HELP University today launched the first private Centre for Neuropsychology in Malaysia to strengthen its expertise in the field of psychology and continue to play its role in training psychology professionals and counsellors to support the nation on mental health issues. 

HELP University's Clinical Neuropsychologist and Clinical Psychologist Dr A Padmassini said the centre, through its Neuropsychology Clinic, was established to provide neuropsychological assessments, psychological services, patient and family education, including cognitive rehabilitation and tailored interventions for individuals to overcome their limitations and live a wholesome life.

“Patients who may benefit from the clinic's services include those with intellectual disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, Attention Deficit Hyper Disorder (ADHD), epilepsies, migraines, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's, brain injuries such as strokes, infections or tumours,” she added.

She said those with medical conditions that affected brain functions or chronic persistent psychological difficulties such as anxiety, or bipolar disorders may also benefit from the clinic's services.

"Neuropsychology has been steadily growing in popularity and significance all over the world over the past eight years. In Malaysia, there are only a handful of certified practitioners to advocate and provide clinical neuropsychology services," she told reporters after the launching ceremony here, today.

Padmassini said the Centre comprises trained professionals with strong research expertise in neuropsychology, a field dedicated to understanding the relationship between brain functions and behaviour. 

Besides the Clinic, the Centre also offers a platform for individuals to pursue academic, clinical, and research training in the field of psychology as well as other services including community-based activities to encourage mental health awareness through talks, webinars and educational videos.

Meanwhile, HELP University’s Pro Vice-Chancellor (Wellbeing) and Dean of the Faculty of Behavioural Sciences, Education and Languages Dr Gerard Loius hoped that the university would be able to offer a post-graduate programme in Neuropsychology in the future.

"Providing the programme in such a field will help meet the growing demand for post-graduate programmes in different specialisations in the field of psychology," he said.

HELP University also was the first private university in Malaysia to offer fully accredited master’s degrees in counselling as well as clinical psychology. 

-- BERNAMA