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CogMed Working Memory Training

CogMed Working Memory Training Flyer
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I am offering the CogMed Working Memory Training in conjunction with Dr. Mindy Rosenberg.

Cogmed Working Memory Training is an evidence-based program for helping children, adolescents, and adults sustainably improve attention by training their working memory. The program is based on strong scientific research, is delivered under the supervision of a Cogmed Qualified Coach, and can be done either in the convenience of the client’s home or work. The CogMed program is a Pearson and PsychCorp product (http://www.cogmed.com)

This may sound like other "brain-training" programs that have received a lot of media attention in the past few years. The main differences between CogMed and these other programs is that the CogMed is evidence based and it includes coaching. The problem with the other brain training programs is that once you purchase the software, you are on your own. Consequently, most people who start them, don't finish them. CogMed includes a coaching component, so that the user is more likely to finish the program. Brain training programs of any type are very difficult to complete because most people start to feel defeated as the challenges increase.

Once a person starts the program, I will coach them on a weekly basis to help them sustain the motivation to see noticeable benefits from persistent effort. Numerous outcome studies have demonstrated measurable differences in working memory in 80% of subjects as a result of CogMed training. Another advantage of the CogMed program is that after the five weeks of intensive training, the user can continue with the program for a year (Extension Training) to sustain the benefits. Although the Extension Training does not include coaching, users can receive support for an additional fee. Users can also purchase a second year of extension training (Extension Training Plus) as well, which makes the program very affordable over the course of two years.

Dr. Rosenberg is offering the program to children and adolescents, and I am offering the program to adults. For more information about whether or not a child or adolescent is a good candidate for working memory training, please contact her at: mindyrosenberg@gmail.com.

Not every adult is a good candidate for the program. The CogMed developers want their providers to carefully screen users as to their motivation and training needs so that it optimizes completion rates. Below are some examples of why working memory is important and the kind of adult problems that suggest a person might benefit from a working memory training program.

Working memory is crucial for such tasks as:
  • Getting to work on time
  • Meeting work deadlines
  • Prioritizing multiple activities
  • Managing emotionally charged conversations in relationships
  • Being able to perform what you are planning to do
  • Organizing materials and activities
  • Managing important financial transactions.

People will often notice that they are having trouble completing tasks, forgetting important details, are more distractible, losing track of a topic of conversation or are frequently misplacing everyday items (glasses, keys, mobile phone, etc). All of us are more distracted these days due to various reasons. We even joke about it with friends and family. However, a moderate loss of memory can have serious consequences in life. As we age, there are normal and predictable cognitive changes. Strengthening working memory may help in slowing down both the normal decline in memory processing as well as with the symptoms of more serious cognitive disorders.

To learn more view the flyer that describes the CogMed memory training program. If you have any questions in general, or would like to discuss a particular referral, please feel free to contact me at any time.