Headshot of Brick Johnstone

Brick Johnstone

Ph.D.

Director of Acquired Brain Injury Research

About Dr. Johnstone

“Rehabilitation is more than recovery — it’s rediscovering purpose.”

That belief shapes Dr. Brick Johnstone’s work as Director of Acquired Brain Injury Research at Shepherd Center. He leads a multidisciplinary team dedicated to validating innovative rehabilitation services — such as vocational rehabilitation and chaplaincy — that help individuals with acquired brain injury (ABI) reclaim independence and meaning in life.

Dr. Johnstone’s research blends neuropsychology and human resilience, exploring how disorders of the self and experiences of transcendence influence recovery. His commitment to advancing rehabilitation is deeply personal: after his younger brother suffered a stroke at age 27, Brick witnessed firsthand the power of rehabilitation and the importance of serving others.

Research specialties

  • Vocational rehabilitation for individuals with ABI
  • Neuropsychology of disorders of the self
  • Neuropsychology of transcendence and meaning

Education & training

  • Ph.D., Clinical Psychology – University of Georgia, 1988
  • B.S., Psychology/Art History – Duke University, 1984

Certifications

  • Board Certified in Clinical Neuropsychology – American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP)

Why his work matters

Shepherd Center represents rehabilitation as it should be — patient-centered, innovative, and deeply human. Dr. Johnstone’s research ensures that recovery goes beyond physical healing, addressing identity, purpose, and quality of life. By validating novel services and interventions, his work helps patients rebuild not only function but also hope.

“The dedication of patients, staff, and donors at Shepherd is extraordinary. Every effort reflects a shared commitment to helping people live fully after injury.”

Beyond Shepherd

Outside of research, his greatest joy is his family — his wife Becky, children Kate, Joel, and Jessica, and his granddaughter Emmeline.

Awards and honors

  • Missouri Brain Injury Association – Life Time Achievement Award
  • Missouri Psychological Association – Life Time Achievement Award
  • Fulbright Scholar – National University of Ireland, Galway