Dr. Donalee Markus' cognitive restructuring treatment is featured in The Ghost in My Brain by Clark Elliott, Ph.D., a compelling account of recovery that highlights the transformative power of brain plasticity for those with concussion and brain trauma.
Dr. Markus’s work uses hierarchically organized visual puzzles that move from simple to more advanced challenges. This approach is informed by research showing that repeated practice, sustained attention, and increasing challenge can support learning and neuroplastic change.
The brain changes through behavior, practice, and experience rather than through a shortcut or passive method.
Increased struggle during practice can lead to greater learning and structural change in the brain.
Northwestern’s SuperAger research studies older adults with exceptionally strong memory to learn what supports healthy cognitive aging.
Hierarchical puzzles create a gradual increase in difficulty, which keeps the brain actively engaged and learning at each level.
Designs for Strong Minds is connected to a growing body of neuroscience research. The approach draws on brain plasticity science, SuperAger studies, and decades of clinical observation.
Over 40 years of clinical work in cognitive restructuring. Dr. Markus developed a system of context-free exercises that engage the brain's visual processing networks to support learning, memory, and reasoning.
The broader neuroscience community has established that the brain continues to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections throughout life — a principle at the core of this work.
SuperAger research explores why some people maintain exceptional memory and cognitive function well into old age. This body of work informs the design of the exercises and training approach.
Clark Elliott's book documents his experience with cognitive restructuring after a traumatic brain injury — including his work with Dr. Donalee Markus and the exercises that supported his recovery.
Each app targets a key domain of cognition, with natural overlap that reinforces overall performance — memory tracking, recall speed, visual reasoning, and more. Together, they form a connected suite for lifelong brain training.
For those who want personalized guidance, Dr. Donalee Markus offers one-on-one cognitive restructuring consultations.
Neuroscience is the
science of HOPE!
Dr. Donalee Markus with
The Father of Teachable Intelligence
Professor Reuven Feuerstein
Explore 40+ years of research, tools, and resources from the Designs for Strong Minds library.
SuperAgers are individuals over 80 whose memory performance rivals people decades younger. Their brains offer clues about what keeps cognition sharp — and how training may play a role.
