Muriel Christianson

Citation

Thesis Title
Efficacy of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Clients who have sustained a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

Read article at Massey Research Online:

Ms Christianson investigated the efficacy of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) in managing emotional distress and adjustment difficulties following traumatic brain injury (TBI). Results from nine participants were presented in the form of individual case studies outlining progress in achieving personal goals. Where adjustment or emotional difficulties were secondary to other referral issues such as fatigue or pain, there was little change in psychometric measures used to measure levels of anxiety, depression or awareness. Factors that impacted on achievement of personal goals and therefore management of emotional distress and adjustment included ongoing levels of fatigue and pain, levels of personal expectation, interpersonal and organizational skills, insight into emotional reactions, and good family and social support. The findings showed that cognitive behavioural therapy can assist with adjustment to changes following TBI, particularly with reassessment of expectations following injury.

Supervisors
Professor Janet Leathem
Dr Duncan Babbage