Overview of Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)

What is a TBI? A traumatic brain injury (TBI) occurs when external forces (for example, from falling, car accident, or assault) cause an injury to the brain. The injury itself can be penetration to the brain, bruising, bleeding, or stretching of the connections between the neurons (brain cells), called axons. The severity of the TBI … Read more

Practicing Mindfulness

Many people have asked, “what is mindfulness, and can it really help me?” The answers to those questions are simple and developing a mindfulness practice can be relatively easy.  Many mindfulness resources are accessible for free on websites and mobile apps, while other resources are available on a subscription basis or by enrolling in a … Read more

Pre-Surgical Psychological Clearance for a Spinal Cord Stimulator (SCS) Trial

Have you been recommended a spinal cord stimulator (SCS) trial implantation by your treating physician? Are you wondering what to expect from the required pre-surgical psychological evaluation? Are you asking yourself, why is a psychological evaluation even required? Well then, read this article, you shall.   What is a Spinal Cord Stimulator? In brief, an … Read more

Dementia/Neurodegenerative Diseases/Major Neurocognitive Disorders

What is Dementia? The term “dementia” refers to a group of conditions that deteriorate the brain over time, causing changes in cognition (thinking), behavior, and physical functioning. When the symptoms are severe enough to impact a person’s ability to function independently, dementia can be diagnosed. They are now more commonly referred to as “neurodegenerative diseases” … Read more

The Importance of Routines for TBI Neurorehabilitation

Daily routines can be essential to maintaining physical and mental health, as they increase productivity, help manage stress, and enable us to make progress towards our short-term and long-term goals. Disruptions in daily routines and activities can be upsetting, particularly for those navigating the recovery process. It is natural to want to return to our … Read more

Advocating for Your Healthcare Needs

Speaking up to a medical provider for your healthcare needs can feel a bit intimidating. This can become even more uncomfortable if you feel as though your provider is not “hearing you” or appears to dismiss your concerns. This type of experience can lead to retreating and avoiding contact with a medical provider; however, this … Read more

COVID-19 Mental Health Survival Kit

One way or another, the recent coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak has impacted our daily lifestyle. No more movie theater night outs, meeting up with a friend for coffee, or the usual morning rush to get to school and for some, work. The safety recommendations to stay home and “flatten the curve” is creating a new way … Read more

About Neuropsychological Evaluations

What is a neuropsychologist? A neuropsychologist is a clinical psychologist with specialized training in the applied science of brain-behavior relationships. Neuropsychologists use cognitive and psychological tests to assess, diagnose, and provide treatment recommendations for individuals with neurological, medical, and psychiatric conditions. These assessments provide a better understanding of each patient’s cognitive, behavioral, and emotional strengths … Read more