How to Make the Most of Cognitive Therapy
Cognitive rehabilitation and remediation are vital therapeutic interventions for individuals who are struggling with cognitive impairment. People may experience challenges with memory, attention, problem-solving, or other cognitive skills due to injury, illness, or neurological conditions. Cognitive therapy can provide the help they need to develop coping strategies and improve their quality of life.
However, therapy can be difficult, and even overwhelming. So as you get started on your therapy journey, it may be helpful to familiarize yourself with ways to make the most of cognitive rehabilitation and prepare for potential obstacles in your therapy journey. Keep reading to get our best tips for making the most of cognitive rehabilitation!
Set SMART Goals
Before starting cognitive rehabilitation, work closely with your therapist to define your goals. These goals should be specific to your needs—whether it’s improving memory, increasing attention span, or problem-solving in day-to-day tasks.
We recommend using the SMART Goals framework! Make sure your goals are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. For example, instead of a vague goal like “improve memory,” you could aim for something more specific like “remember my to-do list without checking my phone after four weeks of practice.”
Use Digital and Paper Activities
In therapy, you may complete different types of activities, and you will likely be assigned cognitive exercise outside of therapy as well. Completing varied activities can help your brain to stay active and exercise skills in different ways. Try using digital exercises in addition to worksheets to practice your cognitive skills.
Stay Positive
Recovery can take time, and progress isn’t always linear. It’s normal to have ups and downs during cognitive rehabilitation, but maintaining a positive attitude can help you stay on track. Lean on your support system, whether it’s family, friends, or a rehabilitation support group.
Use Your Therapist as a Resource
Your cognitive therapist is your partner in recovery. Be open about any difficulties you’re experiencing, whether it’s frustration with an exercise or confusion over how to implement a strategy. The more your therapist knows, the better they can tailor your sessions to your needs.
Be Honest! If you’re finding certain tasks overwhelming, or if life outside of therapy is affecting your focus, let your therapist know. They can adjust the pace or introduce new strategies to support you.
Don’t Stop Exercising Your Brain!
Even after completing your course of therapy, continuing to work on cognitive skills can help you maintain brain health in the long run! Healthy habits like yoga, reading, eating healthy, and exercising can help you to work on your brain health as well. Check out our blog for more brain health tips!
Conclusion
For individuals working on improving cognitive skills after an injury, illness, or other condition, cognitive therapy is an essential piece of the puzzle. However, cognitive therapy can be highly challenging! Going into therapy prepared can help you set realistic expectations and goals, understand the imperfections of the journey, stay positive when it gets tough, and make the most of your recovery.