Cognitive remediation therapy is a behavioral intervention that targets problems with processing and understanding information and other essential cognitive functions. While each person in a cognitive remediation therapy program works towards their own specific goals, the ultimate goal of this type of therapy is to improve daily functioning.
Cognitive remediation therapy is proven effective at helping people with a range of conditions restore and maintain cognitive function. People with brain injury, long COVID symptoms, and mental illness can improve their focus, attention, interpersonal functioning, memory, and other areas of cognition, leading to better outcomes in their daily lives.
Reach out to the dedicated specialists at The Hartman Center today to learn more about cognitive remediation therapy or other supportive programs.
What Happens During Cognitive Remediation Therapy?
Different cognitive remediation therapy programs use varying methods and techniques to help people improve and maintain cognitive functioning. However, there are some core components of this type of therapy.
Here are some of the most commonly used methods in cognitive remediation therapy.
Restorative task practice
People work through a series of exercises designed to target specific areas of cognitive functioning, such as learning, memory, problem-solving, and attention. These exercises enhance many aspects of thinking and functioning and can improve people’s ability to work through complex thoughts quickly.
Strategy coaching
Strategy coaching involves adapting cognitive exercises to increase participants’ performance. This may include reading directions aloud or integrating information into a narrative to help improve understanding.
Compensatory skills practice
This aspect of cognitive remediation therapy involves teaching people practical ways to work around cognitive limitations and improve their ability to function in daily life. Some examples of this might include:
- Writing down important dates and appointments instead of relying on memory alone
- Limiting distractions while working, communicating with others, or other tasks that require attention
- Repeating back names and other information to help with memory
Metacognitive training
Metacognitive training involves raising awareness of thought processes with the goal of enhancing attention and cognitive performance. This aspect of the therapy asks participants to track and consider their thought processes as they perform exercises and tasks.
How Long Does Cognitive Remediation Therapy Last?
Cognitive remediation therapy is not a one-size-fits-all process. Programs vary in length, approach, and frequency to accommodate all patients’ unique needs and goals.
Typically, cognitive remediation therapy programs last for 3 to 6 months. Before beginning therapy, participants will engage in standardized testing that provides a current baseline for their cognitive functioning. This testing will be repeated after completing the therapy program, providing quantitative information about their improvements.
Patients can expect to notice improvements in many areas of their lives, including communicating, performing tasks, remembering information, and understanding new ideas. The benefits of cognitive remediation therapy can make it easier to maintain relationships, return to work, and reduce depression and anxiety.
Start Cognitive Remediation Therapy
If you or someone you love would benefit from cognitive remediation therapy, contact the Hartman Center team to explore our programs. We offer evidence-based brain training and therapies designed to help people overcome challenges and improve their cognitive functioning. Contact us now to get started toward a better quality of life.