About Centre for Neuro Skills

Centre for Neuro Skills was created out of compassion and necessity. In 1972, a devastating brain injury left 21-year-old Steve Ashley completely disabled. Conventional medicine and available long-term care gave Steve no hope for regaining independence.

Steve was the first CNS patient and the brother of Dr. Mark Ashley, CNS founder and CEO. Steve’s journey became the model for CNS’ philosophy and practice. Our core belief is that people recovering from brain injuries should be treated with respect and dignity. Not every patient will regain the same level of function, but CNS is the place where individuals are rehabilitated to their fullest potential and given back a measure of control over their world.

Steve’s life post rehabilitation speaks to the power of Dr. Ashley’s vision. He found a new life. His ability to speak, operate a wheelchair, and live independently was restored. He even got married. At CNS, every patient is a Steve Ashley. Our bias for action is to return patients to the highest level of independence possible.

Given the right therapy at the right time by experienced professionals, we believe that most survivors of brain injury can do more. This is what Steve Ashley taught us.

A Legacy of Superb Care

At CNS, achieving the best possible outcome drives treatment planning for each patient. Our therapists are specially trained in working with persons who have endured a brain injury, stroke, or concussion. Several have family members who have lived through this devastating event. This first-hand experience gives staff an invaluable perspective: they offer your loved one the benefit of clinical training coupled with a deep compassion for what patients and families go through. Since our founding in 1980, our legacy of excellence has been rooted in these practices.

Relearning Core Living Skills

Each treatment plan is based on an evaluation of the patient's medical history and current level of function. A multidisciplinary team contributes to a plan focused on building skills lost to brain injury. This patient-centered objective is best accomplished through real-life experiences in real world surroundings. In all programs offered, CNS patients apply newly acquired skills in home-like settings, and re-establish familiar daily rhythms of living. Learn more about our core values here.

Ongoing Support FOR PATIENTS AND FAMILIES

From the first day of treatment, CNS works with families to plan for the day their loved one will be discharged. A host of options are evaluated to support the best interests of all concerned. Clinical case managers assist families in this endeavor, helping them find solutions that work for everyone. A cornerstone of the CNS philosophy is continued concern for the well-being of patients. To accommodate each patient’s journey, staff are available for ongoing advice and support after discharge.