Caroline S. Altaras, Ph.D., is a licensed clinical neuropsychologist at Boston Medical Center and Assistant Professor of Neurology at Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine. With extensive experience in a range of complex neurological presentations, including Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias, movement disorders, autoimmune conditions, epilepsy, and head injury, Dr. Altaras brings a comprehensive understanding of brain health to her practice. Prior to joining the neurology team at BUMC, Dr. Altaras obtained her Yeshiva University in New York, training at several leading academic medical centers, including Columbia University Medical Center, NYU Langone, and Mount Sinai. She went on to further hone her expertise during her doctoral internship at the University of Florida and postdoctoral fellowship at Harvard Medical Center, with joint training at Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Massachusetts General Hospital.
In her clinical practice, Dr. Altaras adopts a holistic approach that extends beyond the traditional boundaries of neuropsychology. She recognizes the profound impact of cultural, social, and environmental factors on brain health and functioning. Dr. Altaras integrates these dimensions into her assessment and treatment considerations, acknowledging how cultural values, social support networks, and environmental stressors contribute to an individual's overall well-being. Her commitment to holistic care is evident in her dedication to serving diverse and complex neurological patient populations.
Dr. Altaras' research in neurology delves into the interconnected dynamics of cognitive function, mood, and quality of life. Her research work hse delved deeply into the complex interplay between psychological factors and cognitive outcomes among individuals affected by multiple sclerosis, revealing nuanced associations and potential therapeutic targets. By exploring the intricate relationship between anxiety and cognitive functioning, as well as the role of motivation in cognitive fatigue, her research contributes significantly to our understanding of cognitive dysfunction in MS. Her work extends beyond MS to address broader implications for neurological care, aiming to empower patients with effective strategies to navigate cognitive challenges and enhance overall well-being across diverse neurological conditions.