Cognitive communication disorders result from an underlying cognitive deficit rather than from a primary language or speech deficit. These disorders often present as impaired functioning in one or more of the following areas:

• Attention            
• Memory
• Perception
• Insight and Judgment
• Organization
• Orientation
• Language
• Processing Speed
• Problem Solving
• Reasoning
• Executive Functioning
• Metacognition

Children and adults with cognitive communication disorders often have trouble participating in conversations, exhibit difficulty comprehending what is spoken and/or difficulty responding in a timely fashion. These individuals often have difficulty conveying their thoughts efficiently and effectively. Furthermore, difficulty reasoning and making decisions while communicating are common as is difficulty remembering conversations and experiences. The patient may lack “filters” necessary for appropriate social behavior and language, often resulting in unintentional disregard for another’s feelings. He or she may experience difficulty understanding basic modes of communication such as verbal instructions, movies, television, radio, and internet presentations, and some may experience difficulty with reading and writing, often resulting in school or vocational limitations.

At Cornerstone, the goal of treatment for cognitive communication disorders includes a combination of techniques to improve mental functioning, compensatory techniques for deficit areas, and educating the patient and family about the disorder and the best treatment options for each unique situation.