Nicholas Pastorek

Nicholas Pastorek, Ph.D., is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at Baylor College of Medicine. He also serves as the Neuropsychology Residency Director and Polytrauma Planning Director at the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center in Houston, Texas. Dr. Pastorek holds advanced training in clinical neuropsychology and specializes in the neuropsychological evaluation of military veterans and individuals with traumatic brain injury (TBI). His work focuses on cognitive assessment methodologies, performance validity testing, and the intersection of TBI, PTSD, and veterans' health.

Education: Dr. Pastorek earned his Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from the University of Houston (2004) and completed advanced training at the University of Oklahoma Hospital & Clinic (2005).

Research Interests: His research explores neuropsychological outcomes in veterans with polytrauma, TBI-related cognitive deficits, PTSD symptomology, and the development of valid neuropsychological assessment tools. He emphasizes the clinical application of performance validity testing to differentiate genuine cognitive impairment from symptom exaggeration, particularly in veterans' populations.

Professional Contributions: Dr. Pastorek leads initiatives in the Polytrauma System of Care, addressing comorbid mental health conditions and vocational rehabilitation challenges. His work bridges clinical practice and research, aiming to improve diagnostic accuracy and treatment outcomes for veterans with complex trauma-related conditions.