Neuropsychology and Health Psychology Experts at Hackensack University Medical Center Ensure Complete Patient Care

Experts provide actionable insights for better diagnosis, treatment and life management for those facing cognitive or neurological challenges.

January 15, 2026

The Hackensack Meridian Neuroscience Institute at Hackensack University Medical Center provides comprehensive care for people diagnosed with neurological disorders, including neuropsychology care to assess brain function and health psychology services to improve daily functioning, coping skills, and well-being. The Neuropsychology and Psychology Division includes 10 team members that serve patients with multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, stroke, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), dementia and Alzheimer’s disease and many other conditions — with appointment wait times measured in weeks, not months.

“At the Hackensack Meridian Neuroscience Institute, we treat the whole patient — not just their disease,” said Elizabeth A.C. Kera, Ph.D., director of psychology and neuropsychology at Hackensack University Medical Center and assistant professor of Neurology at Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine. “Patients under our care may be referred for neuropsychological evaluations or for health psychology services to help them understand the impact their condition has on thinking, memory, behavior, mental health, and more.”

A neuropsychological assessment includes an interview and a series of tests that take a few hours to complete. The results can help detect thinking problems, clarify a diagnosis, guide treatment planning, establish a baseline for tracking cognitive changes, and identify opportunities for cognitive remediation — which is similar to physical therapy for the brain. Cognitive remediation uses exercises to improve thinking skills and teaches new ways to handle daily challenges caused by changes in thinking.

A health psychology assessment typically includes an interview and a series of questionnaires focused on mood, behavior, and mental health. Based on the results, health psychologists can develop a treatment plan to improve well-being and optimize daily functioning. Treatment may include individual or group counseling, cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia, and biofeedback to understand how the body responds to stress to improve symptom management.

“In addition to neuropsychologists and health psychologists, our team also includes social workers who can help patients access the resources they need to manage their diagnosis,” said Dr. Kera.

Learn more about innovative neurological care at Hackensack University Medical Center.