The Leipzig Treatment Program for Interdisciplinary Diagnosis and Therapy of Neurocognitive Post-COVID Symptoms Experiences and Preliminary Results

Abstract

This study introduces a 3-week group program designed for patients with neurocognitive post-COVID-19 syndrome (PCS). The pro-gram represents a combination of evidence-based components of neurorehabilitation and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). Following a de-tailed assessment, we develop a personalized bio-psycho-social model that integrates perceived complaints and identifies modifiable and in-fluencing factors. We employed physiotherapeutic, cognitive, and communicative training methods to improve patients' awareness of energy limits and implement compensatory strategies, including pacing and mindfulness techniques. N = 33 patients completed the program between June 2021 and November 2022. A pre-post comparison of questionnaire-based self-assessments revealed significant positive effects on mood, self-efficacy, and participation but not on fatigue symptoms. The study provides recommendations for the neuropsychological treatment of patients with PCS.