Soldiers in sunset

Your next mission is healing.

We help Veterans with traumatic brain injuries (TBI) and other health concerns.

Do you know the symptoms of a traumatic brain injury (TBI)?

A mild to moderate TBI can have wide-ranging physical and psychological effects. Symptoms can appear immediately after an injury, or days or weeks later. If you're a Veteran experiencing symptoms, contact us.
Headache
Blurred vision
Anxiety
Fatigue
Ringing in ears
Irritability
Nausea
Easily distracted
Aggression
Dizziness or loss of balance
Change in sense of taste/smell
Mood changes/swings
Speech problems
Poor memory
Impulsivity
Difficulty sleeping
Depression
Contact us
Two veterans talking with care team member.

Veteran stories

TBI will be my generation's Agent Orange.

They didn't just help me understand and start the recovery process for TBI. You're a whole body — a whole person — in this program. They put you on the path to addressing ALL of the issues, not just injuries directly related to the TBI. I feel better than I've felt in 20 years. Read more ...

— Michael Spivey, U.S. Army, Retired Special Operations
I know I’m a challenge.

I’m like one of those blooming onions. You have to peel back the layers I've put up to deal with physical and mental obstacles. The Center for Brain Health team did just that. They peeled back those layers, dug deep and ultimately provided me with the tools I needed to help me overcome many of my obstacles. Their holistic approach coupled with the medical evaluations were a lifesaver to me.

— Jon Manifold, U.S. Navy (Retired) Naval Special Warfare Combatant Craft Crewman DCCM (SS/SW/SWCC/DV)
Traumatic brain injury not only affects the Veteran...

... it also creates a ripple effect that affects relationships, workplace and social environments. It’s an extremely difficult web to untangle, especially in the combat wounded population. Our Purple Heart recipients are able to receive the care, compassion and respect they deserve from the Center for Brain Health. It’s providing more than treatment; it’s providing strength, encouragement, healing and hope.

— Colleen Orfanello, 2022 National President Military Order of the Purple Heart Auxiliary
As a veteran...

... I was hesitant to go down the same road, hear the same questions, and get the same exams from another veteran program. Several treatment facilities made me feel like nothing could be wrong with me because my combat service and trauma happened so long ago. The Center for Brain Health is different. The staff truly care about the process, the patient and my progress. I now have medications that work and a regimen I trust, and they helped my wife better understand my situation. My life has changed.

— Brian McGee, U.S. Navy (Retired), HMC (FMF)

Healing the Whole Veteran

Our care team focuses on individual treatment and therapies that address the powerful way physical, emotional, spiritual and social conditions can affect your health and well-being.

When you're in our care, you're always in the driver's seat. You steer your care team to the issues that matter most.
Veteran and his Daughter

What to expect

Your journey starts with a three-day evaluation at our clinic. You'll meet with a core team of specialists who make up your care team and at the end of the evaluation, you'll walk away with a care plan. You can take this plan home to your own doctors or caregivers, or you may be eligible to return for the three-week intensive outpatient program (IOP).
Person signing paperwork on a clipboard with another person present and watching.
Veterans Holding Hands

Asking for help is one of the bravest things you can do.

Fill out the inquiry form to start getting answers.

Get started

Get the latest news and information.

We are leading the way in brain health and wellness.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if my TBI occurred when I was not on active service duty or before or after my time in the military?

We treat patients with a TBI, regardless of when the brain injury occurred.

Can active service members go through this program?

At this time, only military veterans are eligible for the Veteran care program. Non-military individuals with traumatic brain injury can inquire about eligibility by contacting us at (504) 988-5195.

How much does the program cost?

Thanks to a generous grant from the Avalon Action Alliance and support from donors, including the Priddy Family Foundation and the Goldring Family Foundation, we accept Veterans with a TBI regardless of financial situation or health insurance coverage.

How many days does the program last?

There are two parts to our Veteran care program: the evaluation (three days) and the intensive outpatient program (three weeks/21 days). Veterans start by attending the three-day evaluation, and eligible Veterans may return to the clinic at a later date for the three-week IOP.

Where will I stay in New Orleans during the program?

Veterans stay at the Jung Hotel and Residences, where lodging, meals, laundry and other comforts are available for the three-day evaluation and three-week IOP. A member of our care team will be in touch to arrange travel/transportation and other details about your stay.

What happens during the three-day evaluation?

Over the course of three days, Veterans meet our care team and participate in one-on-one evaluations with specialists. You will spend each weekday with us, from approximately 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. We  provide water, snacks and meals. You are welcome to bring any additional snacks or beverages. You may have some downtime between appointments, so you may want to bring a book, magazine, or small hobby during those times. This may also be a good time to check your messages and/or return calls on your electronic devices.

Learn more about the evaluation.

What happens during the three-week intensive outpatient program (IOP)?

During the three-week IOP, Veterans work with the same team of providers who guided the initial evaluation. You will follow a schedule of treatment therapies based on your individualized care plan. Expect to participate in up to eight hours of treatment each weekday.

Family members are welcome to join you during the last week of your stay to participate in programs and to learn skills that can help your loved ones navigate life at home and in your community.

You will spend each weekday with us, from approximately 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

We will provide water, snacks and meals. You are welcome to bring any additional snacks or beverages. You may have some downtime between appointments, so you may want to bring a book, magazine, or small hobby during those times. This may also be a good time to check your messages and/or return calls on your electronic devices.

We offer many different evaluations and diagnostic tools to assess and treat patients with TBI.

Read more about the evaluations and tools here.

Can a family member/spouse/caregiver join me during the program?

Family members are welcome to join you during the last week of your stay during the IOP to participate in programs and learn skills that can help your loved ones navigate life at home and in your community.

Where can I make a donation?

Donations can be made through the Tulane Giving portal and earmarked for the Center for Brain Health.


Operation Bootstrap is a sponsor support program that directly benefits Veterans by paying for food, travel, lodging and clinical service for the 3-day evaluation ($8,500) and 3-week IOP ($14,000).

Monthly donations and one-time gifts can also be earmarked for the Center for Brain Health.

For information about making a donation and other ways to support our Veteran care program, contact Bonnie McCollough, Director of External Relations.
Email: bmccollo@tulane.edu 
Phone: (504) 988-8481

Can I sponsor a Veteran in the program?

Yes. For more information about Operation Bootstrap and sponsoring travel, food, lodging and clinical care for a Veteran, contact Bonnie McCollough, Director of External Relations.
Email: bmccollo@tulane.edu 
Phone: (504) 988-8481

Can I volunteer?

To learn more about upcoming volunteer opportunities, contact Bonnie McCollough, Director of External Relations.
Email: bmccollo@tulane.edu 
Phone: (504) 988-8481

How can I help a Veteran?

Our Veteran care program is made possible through donations, in-kind gifts, employer gift matching, tributes, sponsorships, partnerships and many other types of community support.

Donations can be made directly through the Tulane Giving portal and earmarked for the Center for Brain Health.

If you have questions about donations or other ways to support the Center, please contact Bonnie McCollough, Director of External Relations.

Email: bmccollo@tulane.edu 
Phone: (504) 988-8481

If you'd like to refer or recommend a Veteran to our program, please submit an inquiry form with your contact information, as well as basic information about the Veteran's military status and injury. (Please note, this inquiry form is completely confidential and follows all HIPAA compliance protocols.)

Once you submit the form, a patient navigator manager will follow up with you to collect more information. You can also reach us by e-mail tbicare@tulane.edu, or call  (504) 988-5195.

We're in this together. Help starts here.

We help Veterans with traumatic brain injuries (TBI) — and their families.

Do you know someone with a traumatic brain injury (TBI)?

A mild to moderate brain injury can have wide-ranging physical and psychological effects. Symptoms can appear immediately, or days or weeks later. If you know someone experiencing symptoms, contact us.
Headache
Blurred vision
Anxiety
Fatigue
Ringing in ears
Irritability
Nausea
Easily distracted
Aggression
Dizziness or loss of balance
Change in sense of taste/smell
Mood changes/swings
Speech problems
Poor memory
Impulsivity
Difficulty sleeping
Depression
Contact us
Two veterans talking with care team member.

Veteran stories

TBI will be my generation's Agent Orange.

They didn't just help me understand and start the recovery process for TBI. You're a whole body — a whole person — in this program. They put you on the path to addressing ALL of the issues, not just injuries directly related to the TBI. I feel better than I've felt in 20 years. Read more ...

— Michael Spivey, U.S. Army, Retired Special Operations
I know I’m a challenge.

I’m like one of those blooming onions. You have to peel back the layers I've put up to deal with physical and mental obstacles. The Center for Brain Health team did just that. They peeled back those layers, dug deep and ultimately provided me with the tools I needed to help me overcome many of my obstacles. Their holistic approach coupled with the medical evaluations were a lifesaver to me.

— Jon Manifold, U.S. Navy (Retired) Naval Special Warfare Combatant Craft Crewman DCCM (SS/SW/SWCC/DV)
Traumatic brain injury not only affects the Veteran...

... it also creates a ripple effect that affects relationships, workplace and social environments. It’s an extremely difficult web to untangle, especially in the combat wounded population. Our Purple Heart recipients are able to receive the care, compassion and respect they deserve from the Center for Brain Health. It’s providing more than treatment; it’s providing strength, encouragement, healing and hope.

— Colleen Orfanello, 2022 National President Military Order of the Purple Heart Auxiliary
As a veteran...

... I was hesitant to go down the same road, hear the same questions, and get the same exams from another veteran program. Several treatment facilities made me feel like nothing could be wrong with me because my combat service and trauma happened so long ago. The Center for Brain Health is different. The staff truly care about the process, the patient and my progress. I now have medications that work and a regimen I trust, and they helped my wife better understand my situation. My life has changed.

— Brian McGee, U.S. Navy (Retired), HMC (FMF)

Healing the Whole Veteran

Our care model centers around mind-body therapies that address the powerful way physical, emotional, spiritual and social conditions can affect a veteran's health and wellbeing.

Families and caregivers can be an essential component of our care program, helping a loved one steer our care team to the issues that matter most.

We help Veterans and their loved ones live their best lives.

We understand that families and loved ones like you are facing significant challenges. If you have questions about the symptoms, treatment, or the "new normal" of living with someone with a TBI, we can help.
Person signing paperwork on a clipboard with another person present and watching.
Veterans Holding Hands

Healing starts here.

Fill out the inquiry form to start getting  answers.

Contact us

Get the latest news and information.

We are leading the way in brain health and wellness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a family member/spouse/caregiver participate in the program?

Family members are welcome to join during the last week of a patient's stay during the IOP to participate in programs and learn skills that can help you navigate life at home and in your community.

What can family/caregivers expect during the family portion of the IOP?

Spouses or caregivers can engage in educational sessions about TBI, Adjustment to Disability, Caregiver Support, yoga and culinary group, as well as introductions to music therapy and integrative therapy. "Family training" sessions with our Speech Language Pathologist and Physical Therapist are also available to help improve functioning and quality of life at home while caring for someone with a TBI.

How can caregivers/family support the Veteran during the 3-day evaluation?

With the Veteran's permission, a caregiver, spouse or other family member can be included in the evaluation's briefing and exit conferences. Because you have firsthand experience and knowledge about the Veteran and his or her injury, you can offer critically important information to help our providers throughout the evaluation. Attending the exit conference also allows you to hear our team's findings and recommendations, ask questions, discuss ways you can help implement the care plan at home, and help establish accountability. You can participate in these conferences in person at the clinic or through a secure online conference platform.

How can caregivers/family provide support if they can't travel with the Veteran?

Support from loved ones at home during the evaluation and IOP is important. Here are a few ways you can show your support:

  1. You can participate in sessions — when Veterans meet with providers — through a secure online conference platform. We strongly encourage family members and caregivers to attend these sessions. Our Case Managers are great resources and understand different family dynamics, so they can help you troubleshoot and overcome any obstacles, including getting set up online.
  2. Three weeks is a long time to be away from home. We know it's not easy to be away from your loved ones, and we're grateful to the families who make this sacrifice. We recommend planning activities and events carefully during this time. Gracefully accept offers of assistance from families and friends. Avoid planning major events or taking on a new project to minimize distractions or burdens on the household.
  3. Your loved ones will be very busy during the weekdays. Minimize phone calls and text messages during regular business hours so Veterans can focus on their sessions. Instruct other family members and friends to do the same as a sign of respect for this healing time.
Where can I make a donation?

Donations can be made through the Tulane Giving portal and earmarked for the Center for Brain Health.


Operation Bootstrap is a sponsor support program that directly benefits Veterans by paying for food, travel, lodging and clinical service for the 3-day evaluation ($8,500) and 3-week IOP ($14,000).

Monthly donations and one-time gifts can also be earmarked for the Center for Brain Health.

For information about making a donation and other ways to support our Veteran care program, contact Bonnie McCollough, Director of External Relations.
Email: bmccollo@tulane.edu 
Phone: (504) 988-8481

Can I sponsor a Veteran in the program?

Yes. For more information about Operation Bootstrap and sponsoring travel, food, lodging and clinical care for a Veteran, contact Bonnie McCollough, Director of External Relations.
Email: bmccollo@tulane.edu 
Phone: (504) 988-8481

Can I volunteer?

To learn more about upcoming volunteer opportunities, contact Bonnie McCollough, Director of External Relations.
Email: bmccollo@tulane.edu 
Phone: (504) 988-8481

How can I help a Veteran?

Our Veteran care program is made possible through donations, in-kind gifts, employer gift matching, tributes, sponsorships, partnerships and many other types of community support.

Donations can be made directly through the Tulane Giving portal and earmarked for the Center for Brain Health.

If you have questions about donations or other ways to support the Center, please contact Bonnie McCollough, Director of External Relations.

Email: bmccollo@tulane.edu 
Phone: (504) 988-8481

If you'd like to refer or recommend a Veteran to our program, please submit an inquiry form with your contact information, as well as basic information about the Veteran's military status and injury. (Please note, this inquiry form is completely confidential and follows all HIPAA compliance protocols.)

Once you submit the form, a patient navigator manager will follow up with you to collect more information. You can also reach us by e-mail tbicare@tulane.edu, or call  (504) 988-5195.

Can I help a Veteran enroll in the program?

Yes. To refer a Veteran to our program, please submit the inquiry form with your contact information, as well as basic information about the Veteran's military status and injury. (Please note, this inquiry form is completely confidential and follows all HIPAA compliance protocols.)

Once you submit the form, a Clinical Patient Navigator will follow up with you to collect more information.

You can also reach us by e-mail (tbicare@tulane.edu) or call (504) 988-5195.

Veteran talking with a member of his care team. Looking at paperwork together.

A new network of care.

We help Veterans with traumatic brain injuries (TBI) and other health concerns.

Veteran stories

TBI will be my generation's Agent Orange.

They didn't just help me understand and start the recovery process for TBI. You're a whole body — a whole person — in this program. They put you on the path to addressing ALL of the issues, not just injuries directly related to the TBI. I feel better than I've felt in 20 years. Read more ...

— Michael Spivey, U.S. Army, Retired Special Operations
I know I’m a challenge.

I’m like one of those blooming onions. You have to peel back the layers I've put up to deal with physical and mental obstacles. The Center for Brain Health team did just that. They peeled back those layers, dug deep and ultimately provided me with the tools I needed to help me overcome many of my obstacles. Their holistic approach coupled with the medical evaluations were a lifesaver to me.

— Jon Manifold, U.S. Navy (Retired) Naval Special Warfare Combatant Craft Crewman DCCM (SS/SW/SWCC/DV)
Traumatic brain injury not only affects the Veteran...

... it also creates a ripple effect that affects relationships, workplace and social environments. It’s an extremely difficult web to untangle, especially in the combat wounded population. Our Purple Heart recipients are able to receive the care, compassion and respect they deserve from the Center for Brain Health. It’s providing more than treatment; it’s providing strength, encouragement, healing and hope.

— Colleen Orfanello, 2022 National President Military Order of the Purple Heart Auxiliary
As a veteran...

... I was hesitant to go down the same road, hear the same questions, and get the same exams from another veteran program. Several treatment facilities made me feel like nothing could be wrong with me because my combat service and trauma happened so long ago. The Center for Brain Health is different. The staff truly care about the process, the patient and my progress. I now have medications that work and a regimen I trust, and they helped my wife better understand my situation. My life has changed.

— Brian McGee, U.S. Navy (Retired), HMC (FMF)

Your referral can help a Veteran continue the recovery process.

We understand that Veterans with a TBI face significant challenges, and the road to recovery is complex and ongoing. A Veteran's primary care physician and other providers or caregivers at home play an integral role in their long-term healing. With your referral, you can help a Veteran with a TBI to receive care from a team of specialists, all under one roof.
Veterans Holding Hands

Let's help our Veterans together.

Refer a Veteran

Get the latest news and information.

We are leading the way in brain health and wellness.

Frequently Asked Questions

What assessments are given during the three-day evaluation?

Assessment are tailored to the Veteran’s needs, based on information gathered during the intake process. These evaluations may include lab work, a brain MRI and orthopaedic X-rays, balance/hearing tests, and psychiatric, speech/language or nutrition assessments.

Learn more: What to Expect: Three-Day Evaluation

Can a family member/spouse/caregiver participate in the program?

Family members are welcome to join during the last week of a patient's stay during the IOP to participate in programs and learn skills that can help you navigate life at home and in your community.

How do I refer a patient?

To refer a Veteran or other patient, please submit the inquiry form with your contact information, as well as basic information about the patient’s military status and injury. (Please note, this inquiry form is completely confidential and follows all HIPAA compliance protocols.)

Once you submit the form, a Clinical Patient Navigator will follow up with you to collect more information.

You can also reach us by e-mail (tbicare@tulane.edu) or call (504) 988-5195

What treatments and therapies are provided during the three-week IOP?

During the three-week IOP, patients follow the schedule of treatment and therapies outlined in the care plan they created during the three-day evaluation.

A Veteran’s care plan may include:


  • Animal-assisted therapy* (U.S. Veterans Service Dogs)
  • Art therapy* (Whole Village Art)
  • Audiology/Vestibular services
  • Behavioral health
  • Cognitive rehabilitation
  • Cooking/Nutrition/Dietary counseling (Goldring Center for Culinary Medicine)
  • Individual, family & group counseling/education
  • Integrative psychiatry
  • Mind-body medicine
  • Music therapy* (Loyola University)
  • Neurology
  • Neuropsychology
  • Occupational therapy
  • Physical therapy
  • Speech/Language therapy
  • Veterans relations
  • Yoga therapy* (LoveYourBrain Foundation)

* These programs are funded through a generous gift from ThePriddy Family Foundation

 

Can I volunteer?

To learn more about upcoming volunteer opportunities, contact Bonnie McCollough, Director of External Relations.
Email: bmccollo@tulane.edu 
Phone: (504) 988-8481

Can I help a Veteran enroll in the program?

Yes. To refer a Veteran to our program, please submit the inquiry form with your contact information, as well as basic information about the Veteran's military status and injury. (Please note, this inquiry form is completely confidential and follows all HIPAA compliance protocols.)

Once you submit the form, a Clinical Patient Navigator will follow up with you to collect more information.

You can also reach us by e-mail (tbicare@tulane.edu) or call (504) 988-5195.

Your support can make a difference.

You can help Veterans with traumatic brain injuries (TBI) and other health concerns.

Veteran stories

TBI will be my generation's Agent Orange.

They didn't just help me understand and start the recovery process for TBI. You're a whole body — a whole person — in this program. They put you on the path to addressing ALL of the issues, not just injuries directly related to the TBI. I feel better than I've felt in 20 years. Read more ...

— Michael Spivey, U.S. Army, Retired Special Operations
I know I’m a challenge.

I’m like one of those blooming onions. You have to peel back the layers I've put up to deal with physical and mental obstacles. The Center for Brain Health team did just that. They peeled back those layers, dug deep and ultimately provided me with the tools I needed to help me overcome many of my obstacles. Their holistic approach coupled with the medical evaluations were a lifesaver to me.

— Jon Manifold, U.S. Navy (Retired) Naval Special Warfare Combatant Craft Crewman DCCM (SS/SW/SWCC/DV)
Traumatic brain injury not only affects the Veteran...

... it also creates a ripple effect that affects relationships, workplace and social environments. It’s an extremely difficult web to untangle, especially in the combat wounded population. Our Purple Heart recipients are able to receive the care, compassion and respect they deserve from the Center for Brain Health. It’s providing more than treatment; it’s providing strength, encouragement, healing and hope.

— Colleen Orfanello, 2022 National President Military Order of the Purple Heart Auxiliary
As a veteran...

... I was hesitant to go down the same road, hear the same questions, and get the same exams from another veteran program. Several treatment facilities made me feel like nothing could be wrong with me because my combat service and trauma happened so long ago. The Center for Brain Health is different. The staff truly care about the process, the patient and my progress. I now have medications that work and a regimen I trust, and they helped my wife better understand my situation. My life has changed.

— Brian McGee, U.S. Navy (Retired), HMC (FMF)

Your support can help a Veteran start the recovery process.

Veterans with a TBI face significant challenges, and the road to recovery is complex and ongoing. With support from individuals, businesses and community partners, our program makes it easy for Veterans with a TBI to receive care from a team of specialists, all under one roof.
Veteran and his Daughter

Make a difference today.

Support a Veteran

Get the latest news

Learn about fundraisers, community events and updates.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I make a donation?

Donations can be made through the Tulane Giving portal and earmarked for the Center for Brain Health.


Operation Bootstrap is a sponsor support program that directly benefits Veterans by paying for food, travel, lodging and clinical service for the 3-day evaluation ($8,500) and 3-week IOP ($14,000).

Monthly donations and one-time gifts can also be earmarked for the Center for Brain Health.

For information about making a donation and other ways to support our Veteran care program, contact Bonnie McCollough, Director of External Relations.
Email: bmccollo@tulane.edu 
Phone: (504) 988-8481

Can I sponsor a Veteran in the program?

Yes. For more information about Operation Bootstrap and sponsoring travel, food, lodging and clinical care for a Veteran, contact Bonnie McCollough, Director of External Relations.
Email: bmccollo@tulane.edu 
Phone: (504) 988-8481

Can I volunteer?

To learn more about upcoming volunteer opportunities, contact Bonnie McCollough, Director of External Relations.
Email: bmccollo@tulane.edu 
Phone: (504) 988-8481

How can I help a Veteran?

Our Veteran care program is made possible through donations, in-kind gifts, employer gift matching, tributes, sponsorships, partnerships and many other types of community support.

Donations can be made directly through the Tulane Giving portal and earmarked for the Center for Brain Health.

If you have questions about donations or other ways to support the Center, please contact Bonnie McCollough, Director of External Relations.

Email: bmccollo@tulane.edu 
Phone: (504) 988-8481

If you'd like to refer or recommend a Veteran to our program, please submit an inquiry form with your contact information, as well as basic information about the Veteran's military status and injury. (Please note, this inquiry form is completely confidential and follows all HIPAA compliance protocols.)

Once you submit the form, a patient navigator manager will follow up with you to collect more information. You can also reach us by e-mail tbicare@tulane.edu, or call  (504) 988-5195.