Supporting Clients with Brain Injury
Brain injuries – whether acquired (ABI) or traumatic (TBI) – can significantly affect a person’s ability to communicate. Speech, language, and cognitive-communication challenges are common, and every client’s needs are unique. At Berry Therapy, we specialise in helping individuals of all ages with brain injury reconnect, participate, and express themselves with confidence.
Brain Injury and Communication: How We Help
Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) and Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) can affect communication in many different ways. Some people may lose the ability to speak clearly, while others may struggle to find words, understand language, organise their thoughts, or follow conversations. These challenges can be temporary, long-term, or progressive and no two clients present the same way.
At Berry Therapy, we are specialists in supporting communication after brain injury. Whether the client has difficulties with speech, language, or cognitive-communication skills, we work closely with them, their families, and their teams to find the right tools and approaches to rebuild connection and communication.
We use a highly personalised approach that includes:
- Speech therapy to improve clarity, breath control, and intelligibility
- Language therapy for aphasia and word-finding challenges
- Cognitive communication therapy targeting memory, attention, organisation, and reasoning
- AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) for those who cannot rely on speech alone - including both low-tech and high-tech options
- Specialist software tools, such as Grid 3, PODD books, symbol libraries, and eye gaze access
- Training for families, teams, and support workers to embed strategies in everyday life
We believe in every person’s potential to communicate meaningfully, and we support our clients to regain confidence, autonomy, and connection.
Frequently Asked Questions (Brain Injury)
Do you work with clients who still have some speech?
Yes. Many of our clients with brain injury retain some speech but struggle with word-finding, fatigue, or processing. AAC can support and extend their communication, it’s not just for those who are non-verbal.
Can speech and language therapy help with cognitive-communication difficulties?
Absolutely. We often support clients who struggle with attention, memory, or executive functioning. Visual supports, schedules, and tools can aid recall, reduce overwhelm, and improve independence.
What is cognitive-communication therapy?
This type of therapy supports the thinking skills that underpin communication – such as attention, memory, planning, and social inference. It’s often overlooked but crucial after brain injury, especially in clients who appear to speak well but struggle to interact effectively.
How can cognitive communication difficulties be treated?
We use a wide range of therapy techniques depending on the client’s needs. This may include:
- Direct cognitive-communication therapy (to support memory, attention, organisation, reasoning)
- Strategy-based interventions (such as memory aids, timers, checklists)
- Environmental supports (like visual cues, simplified instructions, and routines)
- Training for families and support teams to embed techniques in daily life
We take a holistic and person-centred approach and we’ll always tailor our support to what’s most effective for each individual.
Do you help assess capacity?
Yes. We are experienced in supporting capacity assessments by enabling individuals to understand, retain, and express information in ways that work for them – using symbols, visual supports, and personalised communication tools.
How do you work with case managers and rehab teams?
We collaborate closely with the wider MDT and legal teams. Our reports are clear and robust, outlining the communication needs, goals, and provision required for EHCPs, litigation, or rehab planning.
My client has had a recent injury. When should I refer?
Early support is often key, but it’s never too late. We work with clients from the early stages of rehab right through to long-term support needs – adapting our approach to their current stage and goals.
What if my client already has some AAC in place?
That’s a great starting point. We can review what’s working, identify any barriers, and help develop the system further. We often introduce new vocabulary, improve access methods, or provide training so everyone around the client can support them well.