Psychology

The process of adjusting to the changes in your life following accident, injury, or illness is different for everyone. Our rehabilitation psychologist is trained in working with those recovering from physical, cognitive and emotional difficulties. Too often we focus on what is wrong. Many people find it more helpful to talk about personal strengths, goals and needs at this time in life.

During an inpatient stay on our rehabilitation unit, the psychologist will ask about your life before hospitalization, how you functioned and coped with life difficulties; what personal strengths you have; your fears; and, your goals for the future. Coping with newfound cognitive, emotional, behavioral and relational changes is frequently a focus of sessions with the psychologist. Finding your own unique way to cope with life circumstances will be emphasized. In order to help understand what your current needs are you may be asked to participative in psychological or neuropsychological assessments. We want to tailor treatment to you, your needs and future goals.

You may want to see our psychologist on an outpatient basis. We encourage this. It is important to use all of your resources in the continuing process of adaptation to life changes and developing a "new you." You may want to speak individually with the psychologist about your personal needs or focus more on family issues. You and your doctor may want further assessment of your current emotional or cognitive functioning and this can be done on an outpatient basis. Spending time with our psychologist is designed to assist you in learning more about yourself, getting the most out of rehabilitation, and returning to the highest level of functioning possible.