Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License
ORCID
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9808-5393
Date of Graduation
5-14-2026
Semester of Graduation
Spring
Degree Name
Master of Arts (MA)
Department
Department of Graduate Psychology
First Advisor
Cara Meixner
Abstract
Acquired brain injury (ABI) is a chronic condition that can produce long-term physical, cognitive, and social challenges. Survivors and their caregivers frequently encounter fragmented service systems, limited awareness of resources, and barriers to coordinated care. Despite these challenges, little research has examined how brain injury resources, needs, and service experiences vary across Virginia. This hybrid explanatory mixed methods study examined resources, needs, and barriers reported by survivors and their caregivers within Virginia, while incorporating case manager perspectives to expand understanding of service delivery and coordination. Convergent surveys collected quantitative and open-ended responses from survivors and caregivers while interviews with case managers followed to expand upon survey findings. Results indicated that survivors most frequently accessed brain injury resources and professionals, while persistent needs included career development, financial assistance, and social and emotional support. Caregivers emphasized stress management and long-term planning needs. Across groups, financial strain, insurance inequities, transportation limitations, and system navigation difficulties were consistent barriers. Case managers further highlighted gaps in informal support, housing instability, provider ABI training, and fragmented coordination among services. Although core needs were largely consistent across regions, variation emerged in service availability, transportation infrastructure, and provider collaboration. Results suggest that while regional context shapes experiences, many barriers reflect broader systemic challenges. These findings underscore the importance of strengthening case management, improving interagency coordination, and expanding equitable access to community-based supports across Virginia.
Included in
Clinical Psychology Commons, Community Psychology Commons, Health Psychology Commons, Quality Improvement Commons
