Center for Life Management

Cognitive Brain Training and Computer-assisted Cognitive Remediation

Cognitive remediation or “brain training” is a form of mental health treatment in which repetitive exercises are done to build and enhance cognitive functioning. The purpose is to specifically train the brain of an individual who experiences impaired cognitive functioning (as the result of learning disabilities, ADHD, an autism spectrum disorder, etc.), individuals who have lost prior cognitive functioning (due to age, injury, or illness), or for people who just desire to improve their current cognitive capabilities.

As is known, the human brain is quite malleable. Factors such as experience-dependent synaptogenesis and gliogenesis allow psychologists and other health professionals to work with people in changing their current brain capabilities. In cognitive remediation a psychologist or neuropsychologist tests an individual to pinpoint issues causing impairment such as working memory, attentional capacities, procedural memory, etc. When this is completed a treatment plan which designates areas for remediation is designed. Remediation may take the form of puzzles, games, repetitive motion, exercises that require focus and concentration, etc. Psychologists have applied these methods since Ralph Reitan started doing this in the 1930’s. As well, behaviorism can be utilized as a form of remediation. Computer-assisted cognitive remediation allows a therapist to enact this treatment plan through use of a computer.

What exactly is computer-assist cognitive remediation?

This involves remediation through a set of directed computerized exercises created to train and improve the following executive functions in both visual and auditory realms: (a) working memory; (b) vigilance; (c) response inhibition; (d) divided attention; (e) selective attention; (f) sustained attention; (g) processing speed; (h) focus and concentration; (i) error detection and correction; and (j) self-monitoring and self-regulation.

As the above factors of attention and memory start to recover and progress, the following higher order cognitive functions will also develop: (a) meta-cognition, mental representation, and listening; (b) initiative; (c) reasoning and judgment; (d) motivation; (e) planning; (f) organization; (g) problem solving; and (h) reading.

When these aspects of the brain are impaired the daily functioning of an individual is quite compromised. As a result, many people with these problems also experience depression, anxiety, very low self-confidence, and a lowered sense of self-worth. When cognitive capabilities expand an individual’s world will also expand. Therefore, their confidence and feelings of being an effective individual will get better.

How effective is computer-assisted cognitive remediation?

There have been a multitude of research studies completed on this form of treatment. The primary focus of these studies has been on: (a) people who have an acquired or traumatic brain injury; (b) people with ADHD and other learning problems; (c) individuals with schizophrenia; (d) people with an autism spectrum disorder; and (e) adults exhibiting a cognitive decline due to age. The studies have been done on children, adolescents, adults, and older adults. Research has shown computer-assist cognitive remediation is an extremely effective form of treatment to correct the areas of the brain outlined above. A list of some of several of these studies can be found at braintrain.com or at the website discussing CogMed.