Shashonk Illam, Psy.D.
“The brain is like a muscle. When it is in use we feel very good. Understanding is joyous.”
– Carl Sagan
About Dr. Illam
Dr. Illam is a California-licensed psychologist with specialty training in clinical neuropsychology. He provides comprehensive neuropsychological evaluations across the lifespan, working with children, adults, and older adults throughout the San Diego community.
Dr. Illam strongly believes that a healthy brain is an important foundation for a healthy life. His approach to neuropsychological assessment goes beyond diagnosis, helping patients and families develop a clear and meaningful understanding of their cognitive strengths and weaknesses. These cognitive profiles inform practical, individualized recommendations designed to improve functioning across school, work, relationships, and everyday life.
Dr. Illam completed a specialized two-year fellowship in clinical neuropsychology, receiving advanced training across both adult and pediatric populations. His broader clinical training has spanned VA healthcare systems, academic and community medical centers, inpatient rehabilitation, and outpatient neurology, oncology, and pediatric medical settings.
His pediatric areas of focus include traumatic brain injury and concussion, ADHD, learning disorders, giftedness and intellectual functioning, and cognitive concerns associated with complex medical conditions. His adult areas of focus include neurodegenerative disease, movement disorders, stroke, epilepsy, brain tumors, and other forms of acquired brain injury. His specialized training has also included pre-surgical evaluations and the evaluation of former professional athletes through the NFL Brain and Body Program.
In addition to neuropsychological assessment, Dr. Illam has a particular interest in understanding how lifestyle factors can support brain health across the lifespan. His research has explored how sleep and nutrition impact cognitive function, reflecting a broader interest in how everyday behaviors may support healthy development and aging.
Personal Values — The 5 Cs: Curiosity, Creativity, Clear Communication, Conscientiousness, and Compassion
License:
CA License: PSY36902
Formal Training and Education:
- Post-Doctoral Fellowship in Clinical Neuropsychology: Baptist Medical Center/Wolfson Children’s Hospital
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Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) in Clinical Psychology: Loma Linda University
APA-Accredited Predoctoral Internship in Clinical Psychology with Primary Rotation in Clinical Neuropsychology: VA Kansas City Health Care System
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Neuropsychology Externship: Hoag Memorial Hospital Presbyterian
Neuropsychology Clerkship: VA Loma Linda Healthcare System
- Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Applied Psychology: Mount Saint Mary’s University