[AndromedaJulie]

Hello everyone,

I don't feel that I am under anyone's specific care at this point. Does anyone have suggestions about how to find/what kind of specialist? I know there is a TBI rehab center nearby, but it’s inpatient, for people who are truly messed up. (pause for moment of gratitude.) I am struggling with stuff like major sound/sensory issues (hyperacusis), greatly increased anxiety/depression, much decreased verbal communication ability, general more confusion.

I am also getting concerned about repeated injuries. I had hit my head several times in the past, certainly concussions, prior to my big one in July. Since then, 3 more. Each one is a re-injury within the recovery roller coaster. While this is going on, I am concerned that I may be experiencing some general overall decline in mental ability. (Or, I may just be panicking about that possibility.) Also, we just are not sure if these problems result from new injuries, or a combination of injuries. Maybe it doesn't even matter.

Here are the professionals I have seen:

1. My neurologist: Awesome and competent, I saw her prior to injuries for migraines. She can diagnose my concussions, but she is not able to manage me for ongoing deeper rehabilitation, I think.

2. Concussion Rehabilitation Specialist: I saw a well respected neuropsychologist 4 times. There are 2 problems: 1) Despite my promised 70%, the insurance is running me around with the reimbursal. 2) I am not sure what good it is doing me. She administers the IMPACT - that was helpful for a while, might be somewhat helpful now. After that she discusses the results of the test and asks me about any other issues and basically tells me to continue to rest and/or do things as my symptoms allow, etc. I mean, I can come on this forum and get that advice for free, and people here are more empathetic.

3. My psychiatrist: Also awesome, she doesn't simply write me a script but actually listens and talks to me and is not arrogant. (I know! unbelievable!!) However, she is not trained in brain injury.

I had vestibular therapy, which was very helpful.

I think my beloved husband and I are in need of some feeling of competent professional guidance. Does this exist?

Thanks for any suggestions.
Julie