Concussion Management

Concussions are a type of traumatic brain injury (TBI) caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head that causes the head and brain to move rapidly back and forth. This movement can stretch and damage brain cells and create chemical changes in the brain.

While concussions are described as “mild” TBIs, they can have debilitating effects on a person physically, cognitively, and emotionally.

Who should I tell about a concussion?

Immediately following a concussion, it is recommended you reach out to your primary care physician (PCP). Your medical provider can provide an assessment, recommend concussion providers based on presenting symptoms, and develop a list of recommendations for rest and a gradual return to play, school, and/or work activities. If you notice any worsening or concerning symptoms following a concussion, do not wait to see your PCP; call 9-1-1 or take your child to the emergency department. Here is a downloadable list of warning signs.

While each school has their own concussion protocol, I'd recommend starting by reaching out to your school nurse or guidance counselor. If your student is also an athlete, the athletic trainer or coach would be a great starting point. Whoever you speak with can help guide you on your school's specific concussion protocol and who will be best to help implement your PCP's recommendations, monitor your child's symptoms in school, and communicate with their teachers

What should I say to the school?

Here's a simple script you can use:

"My child had a concussion on [this day] while doing [xyz]. We're working closely with their medical provider, and want to make sure their return to school is safe and well-supported. Can you tell me a little bit about your concussion protocol and who I should speak with on the concussion management team? I'd love to talk with them about temporary accommodations that may help during their recovery."

The goal of this initial conversation is to:

1. Inform them of the concussion

2. Learn about the school's specific protocol

3. Identify who the point person will be for ongoing communication

4. Establish a partnership for ongoing collaboration

When should I seek treatment from a concussion provider?

While most people fully recover from a concussion within 7-14 days, some people experience the persistence of physical, academic, and social challenges after several weeks. Young people are at the highest risk for persistent problems with a large percentage of students requiring accommodations in school.

Beginning therapy with a skilled concussion provider within the acute concussion phase (i.e. 0-14 days post concussion) is essential in reducing the amount of persistent symptoms. A multi-disciplinary team with academic, medical, cognitive, emotional, and vestibular support is ideal to manage persistent symptoms.

How can an SLP support my concussion recovery?

Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) can help treat and manage changes in your thinking following a concussion with cognitive therapy.

Cognitive therapy teaches you strategies to improve your attention, memory, planning, and organization. You'll learn helpful supports to compensate for changes in your thinking, practice ways to identify and self-monitor your symptoms, and deepen your understanding of your head injury and what is needed for your brain to heal during the recovery process.

Who is a good candidate for cognitive therapy?

Consider reaching out to an SLP specializing in cognitive therapy if you are experiencing any of the following symptoms:

• Trouble paying attention or concentrating

• Difficulty remembering or learning new information

• Longer time needed to complete tasks or assignments

• Complaints of "brain fog"

• Difficulty making decisions

• Trouble planning, prioritizing, and organizing

• Difficutly keeping track of assignments

• Mental or cognitive fatigue

• Decline in school or job performance

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Jenny Traver, MS, CCC-SLP, CBIS

Reviewed November 2025.

Reach out to jenny@cognitiveslp.com to learn more about cognitive therapy and if it could play a role in your concussion recovery journey.