Conference Breakout Sessions A
(Choose one of the following)

A1: Returning to Work After Traumatic Brain Injury
David Marino, MD, LG Health Physicians Neuropsychology; Jessica Thomas, OTR/L, Occupational Therapist; Michael Riggi, OTR/L, Occupational Therapist

This education session will provide patients and caregivers with knowledge and resources to navigate the process of returning to work, including the frequently experienced challenges, through the eyes of experienced professionals. Through the collaboration of neuropsychology and occupational therapy, our goal is to identify what is needed to return to work. It will include establishing a plan to address those needs and recommending/implementing any necessary modifications or adaptations to promote a successful return to work.

A2: Cognitive Playground 
Mark Cola, BA, CBIS, CDP

Cognitive Rehabilitation Therapy (CRT) is a comprehensive approach to addressing potentially long-lasting issues with cognitive function.  Traditionally, the tools used in Cognitive Rehabilitation have focused on computer based retraining programs, worksheets and standardized packages for training memory and attention. A more integrative and relevant approach to Cognitive Rehabilitation addresses the areas of education, skills training, strategy development and real-life application in a way that is individualized to each person’s unique skills, goals, and resources. The concept of a “Cognitive Playground” fosters a collaborative, creative approach to Cognitive Rehabilitation to address skills and strategy training at any time.  This presentation is designed to instruct therapists, family members, and patients in developing an understanding of the rich resource one’s environment is as a therapeutic tool for improving cognitive skills regardless of place, time, and resources. 

A3: Sleep and Mindfulness 
Edward J. Purzycki, PhD, LG Health Physicians Neuropsychology

The importance of sleep cannot be overstated. A healthy level of sleep is critical for our cognitive and emotional well-being as well as our long-term physical health. Sleep deprivation carries with it a host of medical and psychological risks. Addressing sleep pathologies therapeutically can significantly improve thinking abilities and mood as well as promote long-term physical health benefits. This session will provide participants with the essential tools necessary to not only understand the mechanisms of good sleep but to also put into practice the habits that will promote quality sleep and overall health and wellness. 

A4:  Mindful Movements: Pilates for the Brain and Body 
Anita Roma, PT, DPT, NCS

Pilates is a unique group of strengthening and stretching exercises that unites the mind and body, strengthening and toning muscles, increasing flexibility and posture. All movements are intentional, focusing on precision and quality of moving the body.  Its overall effect is increased vitality, energy and relaxation resulting in a healthy mind and healthy body. Pilates is ideal for patients recovering from neurological conditions. It offers challenges for both the recovering brain and body. It is also a useful exercise to practice after formal rehab is completed. In this session, exercises can be modified for each individual, and can be performed on a mat, in sitting or standing. 

*Morning session will be adapted for chair.
**Afternoon session: please bring your own mat if desired.

Cognitive and physical rest has been the mainstay of treatment for the acute phase of sports related concussions for many years. Recent evidence has shown that certain types of exercise early in the course of concussion is safe and may benefit recovery. In this session, we will explore how and what type of exercise may help in concussion recovery.

B2: The Head/Heart Connection: Coping with Emotions After a Head Injury  
Scott Biedenkapp, LCSW, Lancaster General Health

Survivors of brain injury experience a myriad of emotions that can be overwhelming. This presentation will focus on the impact of thoughts and emotions on the short and long-term healing process. Cognitive behavior and trauma therapy will provide insight regarding the significance of healthy thoughts and emotions, and their connections to recovery, from both the survivor and caregiver/family perspectives. The role of emotional processing will be explored including barriers and benefits to achieving emotional intelligence and stability. The concepts of surviving and living will be compared and contrasted. Attendees will learn steps to improve the quality of their relationships and to living fulfilling lives after a brain injury. 

B3: Mindful Movement: Chair Pilates for the Brain and Body
Anita Roma, PT, DPT, NCS

Pilates is a unique group of strengthening and stretching exercises that unites the mind and body, strengthening and toning muscles, increasing flexibility and posture. All movements are intentional, focusing on precision and quality of moving the body.  Its overall effect is increased vitality, energy and relaxation resulting in a healthy mind and healthy body. Pilates is ideal for patients recovering from neurological conditions. It offers challenges for both the recovering brain and body. It is also a useful exercise to practice after formal rehab is completed. In this session, exercises can be modified for each individual, and can be performed on a mat, in sitting or standing. 

*Morning session will be adapted for chair.
**Afternoon session: please bring your own mat if desired.