ABSTRACT
This chapter reviews of why goal setting is important in neuropsychological rehabilitation. It outlines the core components of goal setting and how they are implemented. Several common issues that present challenges for rehabilitation teams are highlighted, with potential solutions offered. The chapter argues that goal setting serves a motivating, directive function for both the rehabilitation team and the client. For people with cognitive impairment there are many reasons why it may be difficult to self-motivate, self-direct and self-regulate and therefore a goal-setting process might contribute to motivation and help people stay focused on achieving the things they want to achieve. The accounts are also broadly consistent with the Goal setting and Action Planning (G-AP) framework of Scobbie and colleagues, which includes processes of goal negotiation, goal setting, action planning, developing coping plans, appraisal and feedback. The G-AP framework is adopted as it provides a helpful structure for thinking about the various stages of goal setting and goal review in rehabilitation.
