Ways to Strengthen Resilience on the Brain Recovery Journey (with Wendy Ellmo, CCC-SLP)
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In this episode…
Recovering from any type of concussion or brain injury can feel like a really long journey. But what if you have been developing a resilience you didn’t know you had all along? Whether you’ve had the injury yourself, or if you are a loved one - join us in this episode for some encouragement.
In this episode, host Cristabelle Braden interviews Speech-Language Pathologist Wendy Ellmo, who shares both her professional expertise and personal insight after sustaining a severe traumatic brain injury at age 17. Wendy breaks down the foundations of cognitive recovery, offering practical tools to reframe accommodations and strategies as empowering safety nets rather than limitations. Listen for practical ways to foster resilience and find purpose along the journey.
We also feature a spotlight with Dr. Jeremy Schmoe from The Functional Neurology Center on neurological resilience and neuroplasticity. Dr. Schmoe shares how intentional stimulation, including quick eye movements, visualization, breath mechanics, and cognitive dual-tasking, helps neurons fire and wire together while calming microglial neuro-inflammation.
🧠 In this episode:
Recognizing attention as the foundational building block for memory, word-finding, and cognitive organization.
Overcoming resistance to compensatory strategies and embracing accommodations as supportive tools.
Making the crucial mental shift from "rehab mode" into "living mode" after brain injury.
How gratitude and tracking small daily victories physically alter brain chemistry and elevate mood.
Navigating the grief of changed identity and learning to give yourself grace on tough days.
How family members and friends of the brain injured person can adapt communication and stay connected to prevent isolation.
Meet Our Guest
Wendy Ellmo, MS CCC-SLP, BCNCDS, CBHP
Wendy Ellmo is a speech-language pathologist and Brain Injury Specialist for Brain Links. She is board-certified in neurologic communication disorders and was the Clinical Service Supervisor for JFK Johnson’s Center for Head Injuries’ Cognitive Rehabilitation Department, where she worked with people with brain injuries for twenty years. Wendy was an adjunct faculty member at Kean University, developing and teaching their first class on traumatic brain injury. Wendy is a certified brain health professional and certified trauma-informed practitioner. She has served in many leadership roles, including President of the NJ Speech Language Hearing Association, and ultimately received their Honors of the Association Award for her distinguished service.
Thank you to The Functional Neurology Center for sponsoring our podcast and programs. The FNC offers personalized neuro-recovery programs for anyone going through brain injury and a wide range of neurological conditions. When you trust your brain to the team at The Functional Neurology Center, they take the time to get to know the whole you so they can personalize your recovery program for your unique and complex condition. There is hope for a better tomorrow and the FNC is committed to helping you get back to what matters most. Learn more: thefnc.com
This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.
