CBIS Spotlight: Jillian Kossbiel

Jillian Kossbiel, PT, DPT, NCS, CBIS, is a clinical associate professor in the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program at the University of Hartford, where she teaches in the neurological curriculum. She earned her DPT from the University of Scranton and began her career at Johns Hopkins Hospital before transitioning to Mount Sinai Rehabilitation Hospital in Hartford, Conn. There, she became the lead PT on the Traumatic Brain Injury Unit, where she developed a passion for brain injury rehabilitation. Jill became a Certified Brain Injury Specialist in 2007 and a Board-Certified Neurologic Clinical Specialist in 2023. She continues to practice clinically in outpatient neurorehabilitation through the Hartford Healthcare Rehabilitation Network.

Why have you chosen a career in brain injury? Why are you passionate about brain injury?

In many ways, a career in brain injury chose me. As a new therapist, I was given the opportunity to take over the brain injury unit when a position became available. With the guidance and collaboration of my colleagues in occupational and speech therapy, I quickly developed a deep appreciation for the complexity, variability, and incredible recovery potential within this population. Being part of someone’s journey after a brain injury is profoundly meaningful work—it gives purpose to what I do every day and continually inspires me to grow both personally and professionally.

How has the field of brain injury changed in your time working?

Over my 20 years as a therapist, the field of brain injury rehabilitation has evolved significantly. One of the more challenging shifts has been the reduction in lengths of stay and the limited availability of appropriate care following acute rehabilitation. These changes have required clinicians to adapt quickly and deliver more intensive care in shorter timeframes. On the positive side, there has been a growing awareness of mild traumatic brain injury (concussion), which has led to important advancements in both prevention and early intervention strategies. These developments have improved outcomes and broadened our understanding of brain injury across the spectrum of severity.

Why is having a CBIS(T) important to you? How is it helpful in your daily work?

Becoming a Certified Brain Injury Specialist has enhanced both my clinical practice and my role as an educator. It reflects not only my experience but also my ongoing commitment to providing evidence-based, specialized care to individuals with brain injuries. The certification reinforces my credibility with both patients and students, giving them confidence in my knowledge, skills, and dedication to the field. It has also deepened my understanding of brain injury rehabilitation and keeps me connected to current best practices, which directly benefits my day-to-day work.

What are some challenges you have faced working with individuals with brain injury?

Working with individuals after a brain injury presents unique challenges, particularly when it comes to behavioral and cognitive impairments. These issues often require a high level of flexibility, creativity, and patience in order to adapt treatment plans effectively. The emotional aspect can also be difficult—especially when patients don’t make the progress we hope for, despite the dedication of the care team and the support of their families. Navigating these moments requires empathy, resilience, and a strong therapeutic alliance to help guide patients and their loved ones through the recovery journey.

How can clinicians best support individuals, caregivers, and family members?

Supporting individuals after a brain injury—and their families—is a true privilege. Clinicians can best serve this population by approaching each case with an open heart and an open mind. Recognizing the individuality of every person and their unique journey allows us to deliver compassionate, person-centered care. Even in the face of challenges inherent to this field, maintaining empathy, patience, and a commitment to excellence ensures that both patients and their loved ones receive the support and respect they deserve.

What do you see as the future of the brain injury field/research/education?

With growing awareness of traumatic brain injury and its risk factors, I’m hopeful that the future of the field will focus increasingly on prevention. Advancements in research can help drive safety improvements in sports, fall prevention strategies, and motor vehicle regulations. By prioritizing prevention through education, policy, and innovation, we have the potential to significantly reduce the incidence of brain injuries and improve long-term outcomes for individuals at risk.