Feasibility Testing of Cognitive Strategy Training in Post-Concussive Syndrome

CO-OP focuses on learning of a global problem-solving strategy, Goal-Plan-Do-Check (GPDC), within the performance of participant-chosen goals. Use of a broadly applicable strategy and meaningful activity ensures the intervention is salient to the participant and increases likelihood of transfer. Uniquely, therapists applying CO-OP use guided discovery methods, such as asking a series of probing questions, to support participants in analyzing their own performance of a given task and generating potential solutions for improving performance. Participants become equipped with these skills through repetitive application of the GPDC process. First, participants identify a specific goal (Goal). Then, participants consider a detailed plan (Plan) for accomplishing the goal. By carrying out the plan (Do) and critically analyzing the results (Check), participants determine how the plan worked. The intervention focuses on learning GPDC with gradual withdrawal of guided discovery methods.