Get Support

Get Support for Traumatic Brain Injury

Living with a traumatic brain injury (TBI) often means navigating challenges that affect every part of life – physical health, emotions, relationships, work and independence. Support systems play a vital role in recovery. Whether it’s joining a support group, finding community activities or connecting with trained specialists, having access to ongoing support can reduce feelings of isolation, improve daily life skills and build hope. In Washington state there are a wide range of resources designed to promote healing, connection and community integration for individuals with TBI, their families and caregivers.

Information & Referral – Your First Step

Your first step should be to call 2-1-1. Trained specialists will listen to your needs, answer questions, and connect you to any available local TBI-related services and support. They can also connect you to resources for health, housing, food, employment, transportation, financial assistance and more. 

This kind of service is called Information & Referral (I&R). In Washington, it’s funded by DSHS and delivered in partnership with Washington 211 (WA 211). Learn more about WA 211 I&R

Support Groups

Support groups for traumatic brain injury are a place to share your story, find community, learn and discover new ways to navigate life after injury.

The Washington TBI Council, in partnership with DSHS, offers free virtual and in-person TBI-related support groups bringing together individuals with TBI, families, caregivers and providers. These support groups emphasize connection, education, and community engagement. Learn more about:

Community Integration Activity

After experiencing a traumatic brain injury, community integration activities are an opportunity to fully participate, contribute and thrive in community life across social, educational and professional areas. Accessible and inclusive, activities such as yoga, art, adaptive outdoor sports and more, support individuals in their neighborhoods, schools, workplaces and beyond – providing community, connection and a sense of belonging. Learn more about community integration activities. 

These groups are not therapy. They provide knowledge, resources, and peer support that may feel therapeutic.

Caregiver Support

Caring for someone who has experienced a traumatic brain injury can be both meaningful and challenging – and caregivers deserve support along the way. There are resources to help with everything from daily needs, like housing, food and transportation, to emotional and educational support designed just for caregivers. Learn more about Caregiver support.

Additional Resources

  • TBI Support Group Guide (PDF) - Step-by-step guide to start or join a TBI Support Group. This guide walks you through the process of creating a support group, choosing the best facilitator, managing support group sessions, and connecting with available resources to best educate and build a support group. 
  • TBI Learning and Support Resources Flyer (PDF) - Training and development resources for individuals and providers.
  • Washington Community Living Connections - Access home and community-based supports for people of all ages and abilities.
  • GetSetUP Washington - Free interactive online classes to stay engaged, active and connected.

Culturally Responsive Resources

Stay Connected and Informed

Subscribe to Heading Forward, the TBI Council e-newsletter, to receive ongoing information about TBI support groups and events. Once you enter your email and click submit, scroll down until you see News and Resources and select Traumatic Brain Injury Council.