A Report on the 'Understanding Brain Injury' Workshop

After an acquired brain injury individuals go through many challenges, requiring therapeutic supports during their recovery and transformation process. Queen’s University rehabilitation therapy students attended the Understanding Brain Injury Workshop hosted by The Brain Injury Association of Southern Eastern Ontario on October 16, 2008 to learn how they, as future therapists, can support clients with brain injury.

At the workshop a panel of five speakers with a history of acquired brain injury shared their story with the audience. Each speaker had a unique story about their injury, their journey to recovery and their present issues. After the panel shared their stories, the audience had the opportunity to ask specific questions to each panel member. Physical therapy and occupational therapy students learned about the clients’ perspective on how their rehabilitation plan and healthcare team supported their recovery and ability to cope with changes from brain injury. The interprofessional discussion and question period was an educational opportunity for improving client centered and collaborative practice in the field.

The Understanding Brain Injury Workshop is an annual workshop open to anyone who wishes to attend. It is highly recommended for rehabilitation students because it is a truly unique learning opportunity. For more information of other workshops, services and educational resources about brain injury, please visit the Brain Injury Association of Southern Eastern Ontario at http://www.obia.on.ca.

Karen Don and Lynn Parsons MSc (OT) Candidates (2009)