Beyond Refraction: Optometry's Role in Mental Health | MMO Learning



Webinar | 2Hrs | 2CPD

English
Webinar
PowerPoint Presentation
2 Hours
2 CPD Point
Level 1






Course Description

Introduction 
Visual anomalies such as convergence insufficiency, accommodative dysfunction, and binocular vision problems often go undiagnosed but can have significant impacts on a patient’s mental health and cognitive performance. These conditions may 
manifest as headaches, visual fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and learning challenges, particularly in children and young adults. 
Optometrists play a critical role in identifying these subtle visual issues and collaborating with mental health professionals to 
improve overall well-being. This webinar will explore the connection between visual function and mental fatigue, highlighting diagnostic tools and practical management strategies. Participants will learn how to integrate optometric findings intointerdisciplinary care to better support patients with learning difficulties, anxiety, and fatigue linked to visual anomalies.

Objectives 
1. To explain the connection between visual anomalies (e.g., convergence issues) and mental fatigue, cognitive difficulties, and learning challenges. 
2. To introduce evidence-based diagnostic tools for identifying subtle binocular vision dysfunctions and accommodative anomalies. 
3. To demonstrate practical management strategies such as vision therapy, prism prescribing, and ergonomic adjustments to address visual anomalies. 
4. To provide guidelines for collaborating with mental health and educational professionals to deliver holistic patient care.


What you'll learn

1. Understand how visual dysfunctions contribute to mental fatigue, difficulty focusing, and learning disabilities.
2. Learn to identify key signs of visual anomalies, such as convergence insufficiency, accommodative dysfunction, and binocular vision problems.
3. Explore diagnostic tools, including near point of convergence (NPC), accommodative testing, vergence ranges, and symptom questionnaires.
4. Develop effective management strategies, including targeted vision therapy, lenses with prisms, and visual ergonomics counselling.
5. Gain insights into building referral pathways with mental health professionals, educators, and occupational therapists to provide collaborative care.

Presenter Profile

Kgashane Gerald Sebopetsa

Optometrist

Kgashane Sebopetsa is a dynamic leader and accomplished optometrist whose career seamlessly blends clinical expertise with exceptional management skills. He earned his Bachelor of Optometry from the University of Limpopo in 2004 and further enhanced his strategic and operational prowess by completing an MBA at the Management College of Southern Africa in 2015.

Throughout his career, he has consistently delivered outstanding results in highly competitive environments. His roles have ranged from clinical practice to comprehensive management—most recently as the Optometrist & Practice Manager at Vision Works Mall of Africa, where he oversees daily operations, manages patient care, and ensures an excellent customer experience. Prior to this, he held key positions at Chaplins Optometrists, Vision Works Optometrists, and several leadership roles with the Razorite Optical group, where he streamlined operations, managed supply chains, and implemented innovative process improvements.

Known for his analytical mindset and adaptable leadership style, Kgashane has effectively applied world-class methodologies such as Six Sigma, Pareto analysis, and Lean operations to drive continuous improvement. His ability to foster strong relationships with stakeholders, colleagues, and key decision-makers has been central to his success, making him a trusted figure in the field of optometry and optical operations management.

With a commitment to excellence and a track record of strategic achievements, he remains dedicated to advancing the quality and efficiency of optometric care and business operations alike.




This Course Includes:

Certificate of completion
Full lifetime access for members
Access on PC, mobile and app

Requirements:

A computer or smartphone

Course Presenter

Kgashane Gerald Sebopetsa
Optometrist