Neuropsychological Considerations in Forensic Mental Health Assessment

Neuropsychological considerations can arise in any forensic mental health assessment (FMHA), and all practitioners engaging in FMHA will therefore benefit from being able to recognize and respond to neuropsychological issues in their practice. The first section of this chapter focuses on relevance, including a discussion of how to recognize neuropsychological consideration in forensic referrals; a summary of the most relevant neuropsychological considerations of a clinical, practical, and legal nature within FMHA; and review of some of the most common brain-based disorders encountered in contemporary forensic practice. The second section focuses on competence, including an introduction to general and specialty competencies in neuropsychology, and a further discussion of selected practical concerns in the field. The chapter concludes with guidance on responding to neuropsychological considerations in forensic cases, and introduces a decision-making model to help forensic practitioners consider whether independent evaluation, consultation, or referral is the most effective response in these cases.