Cognitive Therapy Resource Guide

Cognitive therapy focuses on improving thinking skills that may be affected following a traumatic brain injury (TBI), including attention, memory, processing speed, problem-solving, and executive functioning such as planning, organizing, and time management.

This therapy helps patients better understand how their brain is functioning after injury while developing practical strategies to improve cognitive efficiency in daily life. The goal is to support increased independence, improved cognitive endurance, and the ability to manage cognitive challenges at work, school, and home.

What the Patient Should Expect in Their Appointment:

Initial Evaluation:

Patients will complete a comprehensive evaluation conducted by a speech-language pathologist (SLP), typically lasting between 1 to 2 hours. This includes a clinical interview to understand symptoms, challenges, and goals, along with standardized cognitive testing.

Preparation:

Patients are encouraged to complete any intake forms ahead of time, arrive early if needed, and come well-rested, hydrated, and prepared with any necessary items such as glasses or hearing aids.

Treatment Sessions:

If therapy is recommended, sessions typically last 45 to 60 minutes and may be conducted in person or via telehealth depending on patient preference and availability.

Ongoing Care:

Therapy is individualized and focused on progress over time, with regular reassessment to ensure treatment remains aligned with patient goals.

Diagnostic, Treatment, or Both?

Treatment: Cognitive therapy is a therapeutic service designed to improve cognitive functioning and support recovery after brain injury. It is not a diagnostic test, although initial evaluations help identify areas of strength and difficulty to guide treatment planning.

Average Recommended Testing Plan:

1

Frequency of therapy is typically 1 to 2 sessions per week depending on patient needs.

2

The duration of therapy can vary, often ranging from a few sessions to several months, with periodic re-evaluations to assess progress and determine if additional treatment is needed.

3

Home exercises and activities are often assigned between sessions to support carryover into daily life and maximize progress.

Who Makes the Perfect Referral for This Service?

Patients experiencing cognitive difficulties such as poor concentration, memory challenges, slowed thinking, or persistent brain fog following a brain injury.

Individuals whose symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, dizziness, or sleep disturbances are impacting their ability to think clearly and function cognitively.

Patients noticing changes in their ability to complete daily tasks, manage responsibilities, or perform at work or school.

Individuals who would benefit from structured support to improve cognitive performance and develop strategies for daily functioning.

Additional Important Notes:

Cognitive therapy is provided by speech-language pathologists who are trained in evaluating and treating cognitive-communication disorders.

Therapy focuses on both restoring cognitive function and developing compensatory strategies to improve daily performance.

Patients may receive individualized exercises and strategies to practice outside of sessions to support long-term improvement.

Collaboration with other providers may be incorporated as part of a comprehensive care approach.

Contact Us

We’re here to support your recovery journey. Reach out to schedule an appointment, ask questions, or learn more about our services. Our team is dedicated to providing compassionate care and guiding you through each step of your healing process.

Phone Number

P: (206) 861-8200

care@bimseattle.com

Fax

F: (206) 324-1178

Location

3213 Eastlake Ave E, Suite A, Seattle, WA 98102

Hours of Service

Monday - Friday

8:00 AM-5:00 PM