Allison Mezo, MA, CCC-SLP, CBIST, a medical SLP, clinical educator, and brain injury survivor, joins host Sarah Baar to unpack the complex clinical picture of anosognosia after acquired brain injury. Sarah and Allison explore how SLPs can confidently identify awareness impairments using a structured, patient-centered assessment process. Together, they walk through real-world examples, including a detailed case study, to break down key tools and concepts like the awareness pyramid, implicit vs. explicit awareness, and the importance of informant input. Join us as we build your assessment toolbox and take the first steps toward more effective goal-setting for this nuanced diagnosis.

Learning Objectives

• Analyze the current evidence and the speech-language pathologist’s role in the assessment of anosognosia

• Apply evidence-based, practical strategies to conduct assessment of anosognosia and contribute to a relationship-centered treatment plan

• Solve patient case examples through the selection and application of appropriate anosognosia assessment tools and strategies.

Timestamps

• (00:00:00) Welcome
• (00:00:05) Introduction to anosognosia

• (00:01:07) Allison Mezo's background and interest in anosognosia

• (00:04:56) Understanding anosognosia: definition and impact

• (00:10:45) Levels of awareness pyramid explained

• (00:15:30) Types of awareness: explicit vs implicit

• (00:18:00) Clinical case study: James and assessment strategies

• (00:24:00) The clinical interview: gathering patient insights

• (00:26:00) Understanding patient perceptions and expectations

• (00:28:00) Tools for clinical assessment

• (00:30:00) Comparing self-reports with informant feedback

• (00:35:00) Objective assessment and performance comparison

• (00:39:20) Determining levels of awareness

• (00:41:50) Identifying red flags for anosognosia

• (00:42:50) Goal setting in therapy

• (00:44:38) Actionable takeaways for clinicians

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