Overview

With major advances in the understanding of the role of genetics in the causation and trajectory of developmental disorders, intellectual disability, and comorbid physical and mental health characteristics, comes the necessity for psychologists to grow their knowledge and upskill on genetic factors and associated consequences. Although psychologists don't diagnose genetic disorders, they play a vital role in assessing the "downstream" impact of genetic disorders and assisting with appropriate management, support, and therapeutic interventions.

With an increased knowledge of the genetic impact on human development, comes the inevitable changes in clinical practice, whether in reference to assessment and diagnostic processes, or in the provision of appropriate psychotherapeutic services.

Psychological services must consider the complexities of multicultural societies, including an understanding of cultural belief systems as they pertain, for example, to the causation of disabling conditions, as well as the manner in which individual families respond to these associated challenges from parenting and caring for children with genetic conditions. This includes the recognition and appreciation of the different expressions of grief and loss which may pertain cross-culturally, and the acceptance or otherwise of specific support recommendations.

This webinar will focus on the role of genetics in disability, provide a brief overview of the developments in the scientific understanding of genetics, their role in disabling conditions, particularly as this relates to genetic syndromes which may come to the attention of psychologists, and a summary of the different types of genetic anomalies and disorders with specific examples of well-known/relatively rare/newly discovered syndromes. 

It will cover:

• comorbid health conditions,

• the developing knowledge and understanding of comorbid mental health disorders in the context of cultural beliefs and understandings of disability,

• specific behavioural, social, and emotional outcomes with support and management strategies outlined, and

• relevant resources.

Target audience

Psychologists and psychology students, specifically for those interested in educational and developmental psychology.

Level of Learning

Foundational. This activity is targeted to those new to the topic.

Duration of access

Access to the recording and presenter slides is for 12 months from the date of confirmed registration.

APS CPD-Approved

This activity has been assessed against the APS Standards for CPD activities and approved for its education quality. Learn more about the APS CPD Approval process.

CPD Frequently Asked Questions

Refer to the APS CPD Frequently Asked Questions for general and technical information when undertaking APS Professional development activities.

Activity details 

• On-demand webinar recording 

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this webinar, participants should be able to:

• describe the genetic underpinnings of disabling conditions,

• recognise the role of genetics in mental health disorders, and,

• recognise the differing cultural and spiritual beliefs and attitudes towards disabling conditions, support and treatment.

Presenter(s)

Neil Nicoll

About the presenter(s)

Neil Nicoll has worked as an Educational and Developmental Psychologist for 40 years. He has an extensive background in the assessment, diagnosis, and support of children with a range of developmental delays and disorders, specific genetic disorders, global developmental delays, and physical disabilities.

Neil’s career history includes Senior Psychologist and Team Leader roles in government and non government agencies and organisations. He has conducted disability-related and skills development programs for parents, psychologists and paediatricians. Since 2002 Neil has conducted his own private practice and consultancy services. Mr Nicoll co-authored “Lessons from my Child” (published as “A Different Kind of Perfect” in the United States, and in 2021 published a textbook “Assessment and Diagnosis of Young Children with Neurodevelopmental Disorders: A Practical Guide”. Mr Nicoll has spoken at various national and international conferences, on: Autism Spectrum Disorder, velocardiofacial syndrome, Smith-Magenis Syndrome, neurodevelopmental disorders and testing and assessment procedures.