Return to work after brain injury: a self-directed approach

For many, returning to work after a brain injury is an extremely difficult task. Many factors influence a person's decision whether or not to work. While some people with brain injury are excited to return to their old jobs, others are afraid of the physical, emotional, and financial consequences of returning to work, and some just do not want to work at all. The following manuscript provides a framework for persons with brain injury to address concerns regarding returning to work and alternatives to living productively. There are a number of ideas discussed within the framework of a self-guided therapeutic return to work program. Clinicians are encouraged to use the information provided to facilitate return to work discussions with their clients with brain injury and to adapt as necessary for use with persons with other neurological disabilities.