By participating in the evidence-based methods of the Arrowsmith Program, individuals can increase their likelihood of success in school, the workforce, and daily life. These methods enhance key cognitive skills, including reasoning, processing speed, attention, and comprehension, resulting in improved performance across domains.

Our brains are distinctly unique to each of us, and our individual cognitive abilities have a significant impact not only on our learning but also on our overall well-being.
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What is the Symbol
Relations Cognitive
​Function?

Symbol Relations is a higher-order cognitive function that is responsible for understanding and connecting ideas. It is involved in tasks that enable an individual to reason using logic and to connect and process complex relationships and concepts simultaneously. It is involved in comprehension across all academic subjects and in life.

What are the benefits?

Strengthening Symbol Relations means a more powerful and positive capacity to understand, participate in and contribute to the world.
☑Comprehending and processing information
☑Reasoning mathematically
☑Keeping focus and attention
☑ Completing tasks on time
☑ Staying organised
​☑Insight
☑Thinking logically
☑Improved memory
☑Increased processing speed
☑ Understanding cause and effect
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Evidence Based Results

Research shows that participants engaging in the Arrowsmith Program Experience:
Improved Cognitive and
​Academic Performance
Increased rate of learning
Increased independent and 
self-directed learning
A shift to a
growth mindset
Increased emotional and social well-being
Increased sense of 
locus of control
Independence in activities and daily living
Increase in attention, listening well, staying focused
The fact that Arrowsmith trains the brain processors that make possible reasoning and rationality, is arguably one of the most important positive developments one could imagine for our world, with its complex problems.
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Norman Doidge: Author of “The Brain That Changes Itself”, psychiatrist and researcher
Increasing the functionality of the Symbol Relations cognitive function enables the individual to understand and make sense of themselves, of others and their world. These individuals experience an increased ability to learn and understand social and emotional behaviours that were once lost to them.
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Barbara Arrowsmith-Young: Founder and Director of the Arrowsmith Program, and author of “The Woman Who Changed Her Brain”

Learn more about the Symbol Relations cognitive function:

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Dr. Greg Rose from Southern Illinois University presented his research at the Society for Neuroscience conference in October 2019 which showed significant changes in the brain as well as “real-world consequences” seen in students after just 6 weeks of the Symbol Relations Cognitive Intensive Program.  View Research
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Our Solutions:

We have a range of flexible options to fit individuals needs and schedules.  following programs are available online. Start anytime – enrolment is open all year long.
Independent Check-In
Who's it for?

Designed for individuals who can work independently and require scheduling flexibility.
Best suited for: 
  • Working adults
  • Seniors
  • High school and post-secondary students
Time Commitment

4 hours per week
Check-in session with their instructor once every two weeks
Available year round
Cognitive Enhancement
Who's it for?
Designed for individuals looking to strengthen their brain while having access to an instructor for assistance and structure. 
Best suited for: 
  • Elementary, High school and post-secondary students
  • Working adults
  • Seniors
Time Commitment
45 minutes per day, Monday to Friday
Independent practice is beneficial
Available year round
Cognitive Intensive
Who's it for?
Designed for individuals wanting rapid progress within a short timeframe.
Best suited for: 
  • Adults
  • Seniors
  • High school and post-secondary students
  • Children and teens during Christmas break
Time Commitment
3.5 to 4 hours per day*, Monday to Friday
Available year round
*depending on age
Empowering Lives is an initiative of 
Teen Challenge Queensland​




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