The Power of Strategy: How Do We Optimize Independence?

Presented by J.J. Mowder-Tinney and Elizabeth Skidmore

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Neuro Navigators: The Power of Strategy: How Do We Optimize Independence? (Episode 25)

Audio Runtime: 58 Minutes; Learning Assessment Time: 21 Minutes

In this episode, host J.J. Mowder-Tinney sits down with Dr. Elizabeth Skidmore, PhD, OTR/L, FACRM, FAOTA, to challenge how we view the "silent epidemic" of cognitive impairments in rehabilitation. They explore moving from traditional "drill and repeat" exercises to Strategy Training. This metacognitive approach helps clients lead their recovery through active learning. You’ll discover how the START framework uncovers subtle executive function deficits, supporting greater independence for even complex patients. Learn how slowing down your clinical approach can accelerate patients’ return to meaningful community participation.

Addendum:This episode discusses Strategy Training for individuals who can learn new skills and generalize them, such as people with acquired brain injury. Dr. Skidmore notes that Strategy Training is not suitable for individuals with moderate to severe dementia or significant clinical apathy. For these populations, clinicians should instead focus on errorless learning and habit training to help maintain structured routines.

Learning Outcomes

Analyze the evidence around attention and executive function after acquired brain injury
Apply evidence-based, practical strategies to actionably improve rehabilitation outcomes for this population
Solve patient case scenarios focused on achieving community independence and participation after acquired brain injury

This is an audio-only course. Additional materials are available for download within the course. To receive continuing education credit, complete the course and the accompanying quiz.

Meet your instructors

Smiling person with long blonde hair in a blue top on a gray background.

J.J. Mowder-Tinney

Dr. J.J. Mowder-Tinney holds a bachelor of science degree in psychology from the University of Colorado Boulder, a master of science in physical therapy from the University of Miami, and a doctorate in physical therapy from Nova Southeastern University. With nearly three decades of diverse clinical experience, her expertise…

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A smiling woman with short gray hair in a burgundy blazer stands before blurred green plants and purple flowers at medbridge.

Elizabeth Skidmore

Elizabeth Skidmore is an occupational therapist and rehabilitation scientist with expertise in rehabilitation intervention and implementation studies. Over the last two decades, Skidmore conducted a series of federally funded studies examining optimal training methods that promote long-term independence, community…

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Chapters & learning objectives

1. The Power of Strategy: How Do We Optimize Independence?

Host J.J. Mowder-Tinney and Dr. Elizabeth Skidmore explore how clinicians can optimize independence despite cognitive impairments by moving beyond traditional exercises toward a metacognitive strategy training approach that empowers clients to lead their own recovery.