An ABI is an injury to the brain that has occurred after birth, which results in any combination of focal and diffuse central nervous system dysfunction, both immediate and/or delayed at the brain stem level and above.  This dysfunction of the central nervous system is acquired through the interaction of any external force and the body including blows to the head and violent movements of the body (Traumatic Brain Injury); as well as through oxygen deprivation; infection; toxicity; surgery; and vascular disorders not associated with aging.  This dysfunction is not congenital, developmental or degenerative.

The ABI Community Integration Specialist (CIS) is the primary staff/point of contact regarding qualification for services as well as issues pertaining to individuals who have an Acquired Brain Injury and is responsible for the following:

• Processing all referrals to the ABI Community Services Program
• Serving as a link for people to in-patient services
• Arranging for clinical consultations
• Assisting in the development of treatment plans
• Serving as liaison to private/public services
• Providing monitoring of services
• Providing support to consumers, family members and conservators

The CIS coordinates with other programs within the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS) and with other departments within the state/local services constellation that can provide services, funds, etc., to the person with brain injury.

Program Eligibility

To be eligible for ABI services one must:

• Be 18 years of age or older
• Be accepted For DMHAS services and currently receiving qualifying services
• Have a qualifying Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) as determined through appropriate documentation
• Not have a primary diagnosis of a congenital, developmental or degenerative cognitive disorder
• Accept the services  voluntarily

Program Manager: Katherine Connell

Funding for this program is provided by the CT Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS).