Since our inaugural meeting on 6 March 2024, the following Topical Groups started:

TOP Group STROKE

Description/Scope: The FESN Stroke Interest Group brings together researchers and clinicials interested in the neuropsychological aspects of stroke. This includes neuropsychological symptoms and impairements following stroke as well as assessment methods for this population. We will seek to initiate and develop links with relevant European organisations, such as the European Stroke Organisation (ESO) and the Organisation for Psychological Research Into Stroke (OPSYRIS), in order to strenghten neuropsychological research and impact in this field, and to enable cross-disciplinary collaborations across Europe with a focus on neuropsychological aspects of stroke.

For further information, please contact the Group's Chairs: Randi Starrfelt and Nele Demeyere (stroke@fesn.eu) 

TOP Group NEURO-ONCOLOGY

Description/Scope: Neuropsychologists working in neuro-oncology often have a variety of roles. Their main focus is to provide neuropsychological assessment alongside treatment modalities such as surgery or oncological interventions, and to be involved in rehabilitation efforts. They can also play a key role in facilitating support, such as helping patients return to work.

There are often few neuropsychologists in many locations, which limits opportunities to network with colleagues who have similar roles and responsabilités, particularly across different countries. The aim of this topical group with FESN is to bring together neuropsycholgists working in neuro-oncology and to Promote networking, knowledge sharing and collaborative intiatives. This group also encourages research-oriented discussions and collaborations. Beyond clinical practice, neuropsychologists in neuro-oncology frequently contribute to research relevant to their field. Neuro-oncology patients with specific diagnostic features are often treated within each centre, emphasizing the importance of international research collaborations to comprehensivily study these groups.

For further information, please contact the Group's Chairs: Isabelle Ryden and Katrine Arnkjaer (neuro-oncology@fesn.eu)

TOP Group TELE-NEUROPSYCHOLOGY AND DIGITAL TECHNOLOGIES

Description/Scope: This group focuses on tele-neuropsychology and the integration of digital technologies in remote neuropsychological assessments and rehabilitation in Europe. Centered on the needs of patients with neurological disorders, the primary goal is to unite neuropsychologists interested in this topic, offering opportunities for networking and experience sharing to understand the challenges professionals face. By conducting research to identify the specific needs in this field, the group will provide recommendations for addressing them, while also fostering collaborations with international associations and societies sharing similar research interests. 

For further information, please contact the Group's Chair: Evangelia Stanitsa (tele-neuropsy@fesn.eu) 

TOP Group AGEING AND DEMENTIA

Description/Scope: This group focuses on ageing and dementia to enhance the quality of neuropsychological assessment and intervention for individuals with dementia and their caregivers in Europe. The primary goal is to bring together professionals and researchers dedicated to this topic. The group will offer the opportunities for networking, experience sharing, and professional development through activities such as surveys, webinars, and research initiatives. Our efforts will include harmonizing neuropsychological tests for the assessment of dementia and facilitating group discussions to exchange experiences and propose common approaches for assessment and intervention. Collaborations with international associations and societies with similar research interests will be actively pursued.

For further information, please contact the Group's Chairs: Mary Kosmidis and Evangelia Stanitsa (ageing-dementia@fesn.eu).

TOP Group PEDIATRIC NEUROPSYCHOLOGY

Description/Scope: This group aims to Foster collaboration and research in the field of child neuropsychology, with a focus in pediatric neuropsychology. Our focus will be on the main issues surrounding Typical and Atypical Development and clinical implications in Infancy, Childhood and Adolescence. Moreover Neuropsychological Assessment, the etiology and symptomatology of neurodevelopmental and chronic disorders will be discussed. Extensive reference will be made to neurodevelopmental disorders, and chronic diseases, such as cancer and other conditions. The group will provide a platform for researchers, clinicians, and students to discuss new advancements, share ideas, and develop innovative approaches to pediatric neuropsychological assessment and care. Encourage members to collaborate on collaborative research projects to address significant neuropsychological problems, to exchange the latest findings and methods, to host webinars, workshops, and conferences, and to provide training and mentorship opportunities for early-career researchers and clinicians.

====> The next meeting will take place on May 5th, 6pm CEST. To get the Zoom link, please contact the Group's Chair: Kalliopi Megari (pediatric-neuropsy@fesn.eu).

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Would you like to join one of our groups or find people to start a new one? Please contact our liaison person: Angelika Thoene-Otto: angelika.thoene-otto2@medizin.uni-leipzig.de

We hope to expand our Topical Groups and to address and integrate the many different interests of our members.

Best regards,

Angelika Thoene-Otto -FESN Topical Group Liaison