What is Cognitive Attention Training? Cognitive training consists of exercises designed to help improve working memory ( click here for working memory info ), which is the gateway through which all intellectual functioning and learning is processed. Working memory is the search engine of the brain . Individuals with impaired or just weak working memory skills have difficulty learning and performing mental tasks. A weakness in working memory is a core difficulty for many ADHD and learning disabled individuals. The program Dr. Smith offers is the Cogmed Working Memory Training program ( click for Cogmed Info ), which has been validated through scientific double-blind that have ben published in leading scientific journals. The Cogmed program is developed for pre-school, elementary, middle and high school students, adults and seniors. The program is 5 days a week for 5 weeks of training, which is like going to the gym to build muscle, but in this case you will be strengthening your brain. Studies have found that improved brain functioning is maintained even though you are no longer doing the training. The Solution The most practical, cost efficient way to provide this training is to use your own home based computer and the Cogmed internet website that administers the remedial exercises, which are presented in computer gamelike format. This software allows me to directly monitor daily progress and intevene with weekly phone calls. This monitoring and professional supervision by a provider was a crucial part of the orginal validating research that helped the student successfully complete the program. 80% of people who complete the program showed signficant improvement in functioning. Can't I Just Buy A Program Myself? No, Cogmed cannot be purchased by individuals because a crucial part of the program is the professional superivsion by the provider to help the student complete the program. There are software programs available for individual purchase and use, but these other systems are not validated by scientific research. Scientific American Article about Cogmed Research Insurance Reimbursement The Cogmed Working Memory Training system is under review by many insurance companies. Check with your insurance to see if the Cogmed Working Memory Training systmem has been approved for re-imbursement.