Mindfulness Based Communication Enhancement (MBCE) Group for Special Forces with TBI: Developed from Quality Improvement

Individuals with mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) have a constellation of deficits, including cognitive-communication disorders in processing speed, and attention negatively impacting social communication skills. Noted within the TBI population are Active-Duty Special Forces. These individuals have additional contributing factors impacting their premorbid communication skillset, such as belonging to a relatively small, insular community with similar psychological and physiological makeups. These soldiers are now returning home and admitting to one of the five TBI Polytrauma System of Care National Sites before transitioning to the civilian world. To create a consistent methodology for treating the unique social communication needs for transition, a multisite interdisciplinary team in the Veterans Affairs and the Department of Defense systems, identified and created a novel mindful communication program with significant results. The quality improvement approach method, findings, therapy rendered and unique needs of Special Operators with TBI will be discussed.