Benjamin Pyykkonen

Benjamin Pyykkonen is a Professor of Psychology at Wheaton College, where he also founded and directs the Neurocognitive Functioning Lab within the clinical psychology doctoral program. Licensed as a Clinical Psychologist in Illinois, he specializes in neuropsychological assessment and rehabilitation across the lifespan.

Education

• Ph.D., Clinical and Rehabilitation Psychology, Illinois Institute of Technology, 2007
• M.S., Clinical Psychology, Illinois Institute of Technology, 2005
• B.A., Psychology, Wheaton College, 1999
• Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Illinois Department of Professional Regulation, 2009

Research Interests

Dr. Pyykkonen’s research examines the intricate links among brain dysfunction, cognition, and behavior, with a particular focus on functional status in elderly adults and neurologically compromised populations. His lab investigates how individual neurocognitive profiles interact with societal and structural factors—especially stigma—in underserved groups such as older adults, individuals with epilepsy, dementia, stroke, or HIV, and their caregivers. Emphasis is placed on developing diagnostic tools, remediation strategies, and coping mechanisms to maximize functional independence and quality of life.

Current projects span neurocognitive sequelae of chemotherapy in pediatric and adult cancer survivors, hydrocephalus, normative data collection in under-represented communities, innovative tablet-based assessments, and the role of religious coping among caregivers.

Professional Affiliations & Awards

• American Academy of Clinical Neuropsychology – Associate Member
• International Neuropsychological Society – Associate Member
• APA-Accredited Site Visitor

Teaching & Mentoring

Dr. Pyykkonen teaches graduate courses in Cognitive-Behavioral Theory and Practice, Clinical Research Methods, Practicum Seminar, Neuropsychological Assessment, and Behavioral Medicine, integrating clinical practice with rigorous research training.

Laboratory Leadership

As Director of the Neurocognitive Functioning Lab, Dr. Pyykkonen oversees a multidisciplinary team exploring neurocognitive, emotional, and functional factors that enhance independence, reduce care levels, and improve quality of life across diverse etiologies of CNS injury.