Cogmed Working Memory Training
Improve Your Concentration, Your Attention, and Your Memory
Cogmed training helps adults, teenagers, and children who have difficulty concentrating or paying attention. Troubles with concentration and attention can be related to problems with “working memory” – the short- term memory that helps you to complete tasks.
Cogmed training is a home-based program using a team approach, consisting of client, coach, and in many cases a training aide. Cogmed’s active software exercises help train and increase your or your child’s working memory, often a key challenge for those with ADHD.
Why is Working Memory Important?
Working memory is sometimes called the “search engine of the brain.” It allows you to keep information in mind long enough for parts of the brain to decide if they need to work with that information. Working memory also helps to block out distractions so you can stay focused on a task. It allows you to do such things as read and understand material, make sense of social cues (the ways people communicate with you both verbally and nonverbally), and meet deadlines.
Neuroplasticity and the Brain
Cogmed training grew from the concept of neuroplasticity – the idea that your brain can reorganize itself and change. In some ways, cognitive training is similar to physical therapy. Only through physical exercise can you fully heal from an injury or push the boundaries of prior abilities. A similar principle applies in Cogmed training as the brain responds to this form of mental exercise.
What Distinguishes Cogmed from Other Forms of Cognitive Training?
- Research: Developed by neuroscientists, Cogmed Working Memory Training provides a product and service solution that is proven effective in rigorous research. Published studies in leading, peer-reviewed scientific journals support the value of the training. Researchers include independent teams at leading American and European universities as well as Cogmed’s founders.
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Coaching: As trained Cogmed Coaches, my associates JB Allyn and Dr. Tracy Ryaru
(www.tracyryaru.com) and I are three of a number of qualified professional Cogmed Coaches across the country. We direct the training, analyze results, and provide encouragement through weekly phone calls and emails during the five-week training period. - Results: Cogmed training has an outstanding track record of strong and lasting effects in thousands of users world-wide. 80% of users experience substantial improvements in daily life, a figure that parallels the findings of Cogmed research.
Is Cogmed Training Right for Me or My Child?
If I have conducted a neuropsychological evaluation with you, the results will indicate if Cogmed training is indicated for your situation. If another professional has performed a neuropsychological evaluation, I will request a copy of that report and help you make the determination. If you or your child has not had a neuropsychological evaluation, we will meet and discuss whether this program is right for your specific needs and goals.
If Cogmed training is appropriate for you, we will draw up an agreement and I will give you the software for your home computer. I, JB Allyn, or Dr. Tracy Ryaru will speak with you weekly during the five-week training course to discuss results of your daily sessions (which we will follow on the Cogmed website). When things get difficult, we can coach you through those times and help raise your spirits. After completing training, you will receive a brief final report. Six months later, I will be in touch to discuss your progress in the months following.
Please contact me to discuss whether Cogmed Training may be right for you.
More on Cogmed
For further information on working memory, research on Cogmed Working Memory Training, and user success stories, visit our Resources Page.