Cognitive remediation to rehabilitate the brain

Cognitive remediation: an approach to rehabilitating the brain

Cognitive remediation involves “the rehabilitation of altered cognitive functions.” It is a therapeutic approach that can be used with all types of patients: children with attention disorders, elderly people who are suffering from memory impairment and those with psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia or autism, during the stabilisation phase.

Much like massage therapists and physiotherapists, who we visit when we need to rehabilitate an injured limb, neuropsychologists specialise in cognitive function and are specifically trained in rehabilitating brain functions.

After meeting with the patient to determine the impact of their condition on their daily life, a neuropsychological report is produced to provide an objective assessment of their abilities. Neuropsychologists then work with patients to establish therapeutic objectives which will guide the content of sessions so that they are applicable to patients’ daily lives.

The aim is to use adapted programmes to work on memory, attention, concentration, mental flexibility, and task planning and organisation. Sessions are held, on average, once a week and last between 30 and 45 minutes.

In addition to psychiatric and neurological conditions, many factors can influence our cognitive capacities, including stress, fatigue, frustration, anxiety and depression. It is therefore essential to consult a health professional, who will be best placed to assess your needs.

For more information, please contact La Roseraie Psychiatry and Medical Psychology Unit on +377 98 98 44 20 (7 bis Avenue des Ligures, 98000 Monaco).

By: Ms Joy ANSALDO, neuropsychologist, and Carole DOGLIO, psychiatric nurse

La Roseraie Psychiatry and Medical Psychology Unit