Behavioral Health

Brain Injury & Behavioral Health

The Relationship Between Brain Injury and Behavioral Health

The American Medical Association defines behavioral health as “generally referring to mental health and substance use disorders, life stressors and crises, and stress-related physical symptoms. Behavioral health care refers to the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of those conditions.”

How Brain Injury and Behavioral Health are Connected

According to hospital discharge data, 13,850 Nebraskans are hospitalized for brain injuries each year. This does not include individuals who are diagnosed with brain injury in medical offices, emergent care clinics, the VA, or being monitored by athletic trainers. It also does not include the many undiagnosed concussions and other forms of “mild” traumatic brain injuries that occur at large.

Brain injuries can often come with or are affected by co-occurring factors. One of the frequently misunderstood/misinterpreted factors is behavioral health/behavioral issues. Our brains play a large role in determining our behaviors and actions, so when a brain injury occurs, it can affect how a person behaves. However, these behavior changes are often attributed to stubbornness or attitude problems due to a lack of awareness about brain injury and its effects.

This can result in individuals being labeled as problematic or difficult, making it more challenging for them to receive proper support and resources for their needs/issues. Also, differences in function related to brain injuries can impact the ability to engage in traditional behavioral health treatment.

High-Risk Populations
While a brain injury can happen to anyone, there are factors that increase the risk of a person experiencing a brain injury and connected behavioral health challenges. These factors include:

  • Experiencing Homelessness
  • Suffering Domestic or Intimate Partner Violence
  • Being engaged with the Criminal Justice System
  • Being Discharged from Military Service (Veterans)
  • Having Adverse Childhood Experiences
  • Living in Poverty
Brain Injury Screening
When a brain injury is not identified and symptoms last for a long time, symptoms may be mistaken for other health or behavioral conditions. A brain injury can sometimes affect the ability to think, solve problems, or control one’s behavior.

Screening for brain injury helps:

  • Connect people to needed services and supports
  • Adapt treatment and care plans to be more effective
  • Helps providers understand and treat the whole person
  • Increases the likelihood someone will stay engaged in care

In the process of screening, it is important to keep in mind that a positive screen is not a medical diagnosis. It simply indicates a potential history of brain injury. Think of screening as a conversation starter for introducing the topic and the possibility of brain injury.

Want to learn more about brain injury and how your organization can implement a brain injury screening process? Fill out our Community Education Request form! Our Resource Facilitation team will be happy to work with you and your organization.

Additional Resources
Request a Training

Our Affiliations

Brain Injury Association of Nebraska is fortunate to work alongside likeminded associations – all driven to help educate the communities we live in.

Have a Question?

Have questions about brain injury support, resources, or how to begin your own journey of hope? We’re here to help. Reach out anytime through our Contact page, and one of our dedicated team members will gladly provide the guidance and information you need.

Connect With Us

Katie Freeman

Marketing & Special Events Intern

Katie is an Advertising and Public Relations major at the University of Nebraska - Lincoln in the college of Journalism and Mass Communications.

Katie was born and raised in Lincoln and decided to stay close to family by attending UNL. She enjoys spending time with friends and family, finding new recipes to try, and going shopping.

Katie is excited to be working with the Brain Injury Association of Nebraska team not only to learn about marketing, but also to help spread awareness about brain injury prevention and support.

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Elle Stecher

Marketing & Special Events Coordinator

Phone: 402-683-0724

As the Marketing and Special Events Coordinator, Elle works to improve the BIA-NE’s reach and impact through marketing, events, and outreach via social media and the website.

Elle has a bachelor's degree from the University of Nebraska – Lincoln's College of Journalism and Mass Communication in Advertising and Public Relations and is working on her Master's Degree in Integrated Media Communications.

Elle lives in Lincoln with her husband and two sons, Ezra and Jack, in a historic home. Outside of work, Elle enjoys baking and working on restoration projects at home, as well as spending time with friends and family.

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Paula Dodds

MBA Director of Operations

Phone: 402-706-0986

From her first office job at the age of 15, Paula fell in love with putting systems in place, organized, and easy to access. Granted, she started just one step above the mailroom as a file clerk, but she quickly grew that skill set to become a company trainer and then office manager by nineteen.

With over twenty-five years of administrative and team-building experience, Paula brings professionalism, innovation, and ingenuity to every project and event she works on. During Paula’s career, she has served the executive search, human resources, nonprofit, and healthcare markets, in addition to professional business and life coaches.

She lives in Omaha, Nebraska, and is currently raising four beautiful, independent daughters (preschool to grad school ages) with her very patient (and VERY outnumbered) fiancé, Matt.

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Peggy Reisher, MSW

Executive Director

Phone: 402-890-0606

Peggy Reisher has worked in the field of brain injury for over 25 years. She helped establish the Brain Injury Association of Nebraska (BIA-NE) in 2009 and became the Executive Director in July 2013. Prior to being the Executive Director, she served as the Director of Programs and Services.

Peggy has a master’s degree in social work and worked 14 years on the traumatic brain injury unit at Madonna Rehabilitation Hospital in Lincoln, Neb. where she helped patients and families identify community resources upon discharge from the hospital.

Peggy is currently the President of the United States Brain Injury Association and is on the Munroe Meyer Institute Board of Directors.

Peggy grew up in St. Paul, NE, but has spent her adult life in Lincoln where she and her husband Tom raised their three children, Nathan, Amy, and Erica.

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Gina Simanek, MA, LMHP

Support Group Volunteer Leader & Resource Facilitator Lincoln & Southeast Nebraska

Gina is a tenacious advocate of those with brain injury across the state of Nebraska. As a licensed mental health practitioner, consultant, educator, and volunteer, she was the first to ever provide outreach services in Lincoln and the entire state of Nebraska for individuals with Brain Injury (BI) and their families. Gina did this solo while working another full-time position to meet unmet needs for individuals with BI and their caregivers for 30 years and continues this work today.

In 2008, Gina contracted as the Nebraska State BI Ombudsperson and a Statewide Information and Referral Specialist for the Brain Injury Association of Nebraska (BIA-NE). In 2021, Gina joined BIA-NE full-time.

Gina has a background with administration and interpretation of various psychological and neuropsychological assessments; educates professionals, individuals, and families about brain injuries and mental health; is experienced in neurofeedback and biofeedback; facilitates mental/medical health support groups, served on several state advisory boards, and did a research study on brain injury coping in parents that gained recognition (2001 Student Research Award – Division 22, Rehabilitation Psychology), and has contributed to other brain injury research publications.

Outside of work, Gina is also active in biking long distances and assisting other runners and bikers to accomplish a marathon or long biking adventure successfully. She enjoys the outdoors, animals, artistic endeavors, and being around family, friends, and those who appreciate the value of assisting others in various ways.

Shir Smith

Resource Facilitator Western Nebraska

As someone who suffers from a brain injury and has overcome obstacles in her life, Shir Smith is ready and willing to help others. Shir has a passion for making people aware of brain injury and how it affects people’s lives. Shir always states, “There is no limit to your Sky, go Above and Beyond.”

Before joining the Brain Injury Association of Nebraska, Shir spent a large part of her life volunteering for and working with non-profit programs. From the Salvation Army to the Lincoln County Jail to Guardian Light Family Services, she saw needs that helped shape her passions and skills–guiding her to where she was meant to be–helping others to help others.

Shir is certified in a wide range of programs and training and brings a wealth of training and knowledge to the team. She has experience working with a Rape and Domestic Abuse Program as an advocate, starting a Wise Minds and an Incarcerated Victim Advocacy Program in the Lincoln County Jail, working with an Anti-Violence program for women, and working as a Sexual Assault Coordinator.

MenDi McCuiston

Peer Mentoring Program Coordinator • Resource Facilitator Western Nebraska

MenDi is the mother of a child that received a brain injury in a car accident at the age of sixteen and dealt with the repercussion of the school and court system treating her child as an uncontrollable child instead of treating the symptoms. She understands the struggles of a parent feeling helpless, hopeless, and abandoned by the “system.” Her goal with the Brain Injury Association of Nebraska is to educate others on the signs and symptoms of brain injury and offer support for those in the same position she found herself in seven years ago.

MenDi has a bachelor’s in behavioral science and has worked as a life coach, a family support worker, and has held various other positions within the non-profit realm helping individuals to set goals, recover from grief, and find their purpose. She has a passion for helping others and is inspired by those who do not let their situation keep them down.

MenDi was born and raised in North Platte, spent 14 years in McCook but missed home, and returned to North Platte where she lives with her husband. She has five children and six grandchildren who keep her busy and young at heart.

Michelle Meyer

Resource Facilitator Lincoln & Southeastern Nebraska

Michelle Meyer joined BIA–NE from Bryan Health, where she worked as an insurance verification specialist and patient registrar. Recognized for her training skills, rapport building, and commitment to excellence, Michelle enjoys work that requires empathy, innovation, and problem-solving and brings a diverse work history to the Resource Facilitation team.

Michelle continues her dedication to supporting individuals through empathy and guidance, leveraging her background in patient interaction.

As the primary caregiver and medical point of contact for her aging parents and mother-in-law, she knows that access to helpful resources is empowering and invaluable during a health crisis. She looks forward to sharing her hope and enthusiasm with BIA–NE clients throughout their recovery process.

Michelle lives in Lincoln with her husband and dog and enjoys gardening, art, and spending time with family and friends.

Marisa Mears

Resource Facilitator Western Nebraska

Marisa is a dedicated caregiver with a nursing degree from Mid Plains Community College, who has been in the nursing field since 1999. She has a passion for helping others and supporting their needs, which has led her to expand her skills from nursing to health and fitness, and now to focus on brain injury.

Marisa's greatest accomplishments in life are her three lovely children, who bring her immense joy and fulfillment. When she is not busy being a mom, Marisa enjoys spending quality time with her husband, traveling, and attending concerts.

Having witnessed the impact of brain injury both professionally and personally, Marisa is committed to raising awareness in her community. She aims to provide prevention education, advocacy, and support to those in need, in order to make a positive difference in the lives of individuals affected by brain injury. With her caring and compassionate nature, Marisa is dedicated to making a meaningful impact in the lives of others.

Teresa Larsen

Peer Mentoring Program Coordinator Panhandle Region

Teresa has been fascinated with the brain since high school and dreamed of being a Neurologist.

Teresa has a natural talent for teaching and explaining the complicated in an understandable and relatable way. As a mother of three, whom she home-educated, Teresa enlisted her teaching, nurturing, and management skills to raise her three children. Teresa has always had a strong desire to serve others. She volunteered with crisis pregnancy centers as well as domestic violence organizations. Teresa served her community in leadership positions such as Vice president of her local 4H council and as president of the Nebraska Extension Education Club, The Stateliners.

As a family support worker, Teresa grew and expanded her skills to be a "toolbox" for her clients. It's the "toolbox" mentality that helps her bring a multitude of resources to each situation to bring about the best for those with whom she works.

Brenda Horner

Resource Facilitator Central Nebraska

Brenda’s husband had a hemorrhagic stroke in 2009 while serving in the military, so she understands brain injury from a spouse's/caregiver’s perspective. Over the years, Brenda has learned to navigate family life, military life, and the VA system regarding her husband's brain injury. She has 20 years of experience working with people of all ages and disabilities.

Brenda also has ample experience working in and with various Special Education programs across the state of Nebraska. Previously, she helped families as a Service Coordinator for The Early Development Network as well as working in hospice and as a Registered Behavior Technician.

Brenda grew up in York, NE. She currently resides in Grand Island, NE with her husband and has 2 daughters, 2 sons-in-law, and 2 granddaughters that keep her busy in her spare time.

Anna Cole

Resource Facilitator Special Projects

Anna’s focus on and passion for care is evident throughout her life—beginning with her early career as a Registered Nurse. She then cared for and raised four wonderful sons as a stay-at-home mom. When her children reached school age, she accepted various positions in their schools, all of which involved caring for and helping hundreds of children. Prior to joining the Brain Injury Association of Nebraska, Anna most recently served as the full-time Congregational Care Coordinator at her church.

As a freshman at an out-of-state college, Anna’s youngest son was involved in a serious car accident that resulted in a brain injury. Finding and accessing providers and resources to assist in his recovery and successful return to school ignited Anna's passion to assist others facing a similar challenge.

Anna grew up in New Hudson, Michigan, but has lived in Omaha for over 35 years. She and her husband Blake are empty-nesters with their dog, Jack. Anna has four awesome grown sons, two beautiful daughters-in-law, and two wonderful grandchildren.

Heather Carroll

Resource Facilitator Omaha & Lincoln Metropolitan Areas

Heather Carroll is a passionate and creative woman who loves her twins and family. She is active in her church community where she serves teaching Sunday School, and as a care pastor, board member, and part of the worship team (where she is a vocalist and plays the guitar and violin).

Heather retired from the Air Force after 22 years. While serving in the Air Force, Heather worked as a Nationally Registered Emergency Medical Technician (NREMT). During her service, she was stationed in Cheyenne Wyoming, Denver Colorado, Minneapolis Minnesota, and Lincoln Nebraska. Some highlights from her service have been touring with the premier Tops-In-Blue performance team where she was afforded the opportunity to represent the Air Force's Finest performers, entertaining the troops abroad. She deployed to Kuwait in 2007 to serve and support the global war on terrorism where she managed and led a team in the Contingency Aeromedical Staging Facility. Upon arriving at Lincoln Air National Guard, she served in the Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, and High Yield Explosives (CBRNE) Enhanced Response Force. She retired as a Master Sergeant (MSgt) from the Lincoln Air National Guard in April of 2016.

In 2016, after retirement, Heather began a new pathway for her education in Psychology. She successfully completed her bachelor’s in psychology in 2018 with distinction. While attending school, she was also employed by Bellevue University working as an Evaluations Specialist, Research Analyst, and Manager of the Military Veteran Services Center (MVSC). Heather is passionate for mental health and helping others heal from past experiences and traumas. She is currently pursuing her master’s in mental health clinical counseling where she desires to continue to service the veterans and others with their traumatic experiences and injuries.

Heather is no stranger to Resource Facilitation having spent the last four years as the manager of the MVSC, where she helped veterans get and remain connected to the resources in the community that support them with their service-connected disabilities. She managed the staff and partners of the facility to ensure they streamlined processes and procedures, delivered excellent customer service, and met the veterans where they were at, ensuring the team left them better than when they walked into the facility.

Heather has more than 30 years of serving others and their medical needs and getting people connected to the resources in the community. In the Air Force, she assisted in educating and training peers and patients. At Bellevue University, she ensured veterans received the resources and programs available to them for the last four years.

Lastly, Heather is very excited to be on the Brain Injury Association of Nebraska team and is looking forward to serving those with brain injuries as well as helping to inform and educate the community and partners in the community.

Rachel Brandenburg

Resource Facilitator Omaha Metropolitan & Northeast Region

Rachel brings over 20 years of experience in healthcare to her role. Before pursuing higher education, she dedicated over a decade as a Certified Nursing Assistant, providing compassionate care that helped individuals maintain independence while addressing their social and emotional needs. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Healthcare Management and a Master's in Public Health, with extensive experience assisting individuals and caregivers through complex physical and social health challenges.

Rachel lives south of Plattsmouth in a small lake community with her husband, son, two daughters, and two dogs. She enjoys crafting, cooking, staying active, and supporting her children’s various extracurricular activities.

A caregiver and volunteer at heart, Rachel serves annually on her community’s Election Committee. She also contributes her expertise as a member of the ENOA Senior Companion Program Advisory Council and as Treasurer for the Keep Cass County Beautiful Board of Directors.