QUESTION:

I'm a 28-year-old woman living with my parents. Five years ago I had a really bad brain injury. I was in the hospital for a while and they say I was in a coma. I would love to move out of my house but can't afford to yet. My parents are overbearing. They treat me like a seven-year-old and they won't let me do anything. At first, I really needed help from my folks, but now I can do most things on my own. Still, my mother tells me what to do, like when to do chores, who I should hang out with, and even what to wear. Sometimes I lose my temper with her, but I just can't stand the way she treats me. Oh, I have a 20-year-old brother, and he is away at college. I used to talk to him about this, but he started school six months ago. How can I deal with my mother until I move out? I don't even like to talk to her.

QUESTION:

Over a year ago I was injured in a fall. While I look fine, I still experience problems due to a head injury. My memory is limited, and my emotions are difficult to control. I also have residual pain in my head, neck, and back. I am very frustrated dealing with these problems so long after the accident, but what is most upsetting is that my family does not believe me. They say that I look fully recovered and that my problems are "in my head" meaning imaginary. My family implies that I use my injury as an excuse to avoid finishing school, moving on with my life, assuming responsibility, etc. How can I convince my family that my problems are real? Is there a way to make them understand brain injury better?

QUESTION:

What are some resources for families in need of support and counseling after a traumatic brain injury has occurred? Would a family counselor be helpful, or is some type of therapist experienced in brain injury more appropriate?

QUESTION:

There are some counseling issues that are specific to families coping with brain injury, such as post-traumatic stress disorder, dramatic personality changes, family role changes, caregiving, etc. What are some suggestions for the therapist helping a family that has experienced brain injury?