Brain Injury

Clinical Practice (assessment, diagnosis, treatment, knowledge translation/EBP, implementation science, program development)

Symposium

Trauma-Informed Care:  Treatment Approaches for mTBI/PTSD Secondary to Violence (601050)

Presenter(s)

• 

  Maya Bruhns, PsyD

  Neuropsychologist
  Alta Bates Summit Medical Center
  Oakland, California
• ME

  Marissa Eusebio, MS

  Doctoral Candidate
  Palo Alto University/VA Northern CA HealthCare System
  Martinez, California
• 

  Katlyn Welch, MS

  Doctoral Candidate
  Palo Alto University/VA Northern CA HealthCare System
  Martinez, California

Individuals with comorbid mild traumatic brain injury and post-traumatic stress (mTBI/PTSD) present unique challenges for rehabilitation providers. In this symposium, we review the current evidence base for integrative treatment of individuals with mTBI/PTSD secondary to violence. We address these issues from the perspective of the department of Veterans' Affairs, and from the perspective of services for survivors of intimate partner violence. Where relevant, we include point/counterpoint perspectives on the current state of the evidence base for different populations. We conclude with recommendations for trauma-informed rehabilitation interventions for individuals with mTBI/PTSD secondary to violence.

Learning Objectives:

• Upon completion, participants will be aware of potential presentations of mTBI/PTSD among survivors of violence, enabling increased identification and appropriate referrals for this population.
• Upon completion, participants will be able to identify basic diagnostic and treatment options for comorbid mTBI/PTSD among survivors of violence.
• Upon completion, participants will identify three trauma-informed approaches to increase engagement and participation of traumatized patients.