Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
Understanding Traumatic Brain Injury
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) occurs when an external force (such as a fall, motor vehicle collision, or blast) affects the brain. Even mild TBIs or concussions can lead to changes in thinking, emotion, and daily functioning.
Symptoms can improve over time, but some individuals experience persistent changes that benefit from structured assessment and targeted supports.
Why Seek an Evaluation?
- You notice changes in memory, attention, processing speed, or organization after a TBI
- You have difficulty returning to work, school, or daily roles
- There are concerns about mood changes, irritability, or personality shifts
- You are navigating rehabilitation, legal, or disability questions and need documentation
What a TBI-Focused Evaluation Looks At
🧠 Cognitive Profile
Attention, memory, processing speed, language, and executive functioning.
🎭 Emotional & Behavioral Changes
Mood, irritability, frustration tolerance, and adjustment after injury.
📚 Functional Skills
Daily living, work/school performance, and independence.
📑 Injury History & Medical Factors
Mechanism of injury, medical imaging, treatment history, and recovery course.
How Results Can Help
- Clarify cognitive strengths and vulnerabilities post-injury
- Guide rehabilitation, compensatory strategies, and return-to-work/school planning
- Provide documentation for accommodations or disability when appropriate
- Support communication with family, employers, and care teams
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it “too late” to seek evaluation after a TBI?
Not necessarily. Evaluations can be helpful months or years later to understand ongoing strengths and challenges.
Can emotional changes after TBI be assessed?
Yes. We assess both cognitive and emotional functioning and how they interact.
Trusted Resources for Traumatic Brain Injury
These organizations focus on education, safety, and support after brain injury.
National & Online Resources
- Brain Injury Association of America (BIAA) – Education, advocacy, and support resources for individuals with brain injury and their families.
- CDC – Traumatic Brain Injury – Information on TBI causes, symptoms, and prevention.
- BrainLine – Articles, videos, and resources about living with brain injury.
Florida-Based Supports & Community Resources
- Brain Injury Association of Florida (BIAF) – Statewide support, education, and caregiver resources for Floridians living with brain injury.
- Florida 2-1-1 – Connection to local rehabilitation, support groups, and community services.
Crisis & Immediate Support
If you suspect a new head injury or acute neurological change, this is a medical emergency.
- Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
- For emotional crises or suicidality, call or text 988 — Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, or visit 988lifeline.org.
Moving Forward
Life after TBI can be confusing and unpredictable, but a structured evaluation can help you understand what has changed, what has not, and where to focus your energy in recovery.
You can learn more about the types of evaluations we offer by visiting our Services page.
To explore whether a TBI-focused evaluation may be helpful, contact us or book an intake appointment online.
Book your first appointment or a free 15-minute phone consultation using our online service.
Have questions? Contact us to discuss your needs and how SWANS can help.