Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Persistent Post-Concussive Symptoms in Youth: Adaptations, Treatment Recommendations, and Implementation in Medical Settings

While many youths recover from concussions within several weeks, a subset of patients experience persistent postconcussive symptoms (PPCS), lasting 4 weeks or longer. PPCS have a significant negative impact on children’s social and academic functioning, often leading to extended absences from school, disruption of normal activities, and increased mental health burden. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) has demonstrated promise as a treatment for PPCS but requires tailoring to specifically address concussion-related targets. This paper describes the clinical adaptation of CBT for pediatric patients with PPCS, including core intervention modifications and recommendations for the implementation and delivery of CBT in medical settings. A model of an integrated concussion clinic with pediatric neurology and psychology is discussed.