Therapy Options for Those With Brain Injuries

While a brain injury can be a life-changing event, families should not feel that they are alone in helping their loved one. A number of health care professionals can aid in nearly every aspect of brain injury recovery.

Occupational Therapist

Occupational therapists (OT) are trained in helping individuals recover the abilities necessary to live everyday life, and in some instances, go back to work or school. From getting dressed, bathing, and preparing meals, to social skills like spending time with friends, OTs are there to help the patient regain their skills. They can also oversee a patient’s cognitive levels, and help them reach certain benchmarks.

Physical Therapist

Physical therapists help the patient recover their physical independence. This can include learning how to walk, as well as regaining muscle control, strength, and dexterity.

Speech Therapist

Also known as speech and language pathologists, these professionals help restore a patient’s ability to communicate through speaking, writing, and gesturing. They can also aid the family in communicating with the brain injured person, through evaluating how much the injured person understands. A speech therapist can also help with determining which foods are safe to be chewed and swallowed.

Psychiatrist

Even some people who make a seemingly full recovery from a brain injury can experience lingering mental health issues. Mood swings, depression, and irrational behavior can present themselves after other issues have cleared up. Psychiatrists trained in treating those with brain injuries can assess the situation and provide therapy and other treatment.

Social Worker

Social workers are experts in helping and guiding those who are experiencing traumatic life changes. In families that are dealing with brain injuries, they can help resolve emotional problems and stress-related issues. They can also point the family to community resources to help with the financial strain of a large medical problem.

Clinical Nurse Specialist

Clinical nurse specialists are advanced practice nurses who can help develop plans of care for brain injured patients, as well as providing primary care and overall health assessments. These professionals can also educate families on the care and follow-up for their injured loved one.

Other Professionals:

  • Rehabilitation Nurses
  • Recreation Therapists
  • Neuropsychologists

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