Metacognium vs STEPS Problem Solving Training

Metacognium is a neuroscience-informed cognitive training program designed for adults, with a focus on college students. Through four structured sessions, users learn how the brain works, train core cognitive abilities, and discover how external stressors like drugs and alcohol can impair mental performance. Each session targets specific cognitive functions including building awareness, strengthening mental resilience, and giving users the knowledge to protect their brain health. Whether you're looking to sharpen your thinking or better understand the science behind cognitive impairment, Metacognium puts the tools in your hands.

STEPS (Steps To Effective Problem Solving) is a mobile app developed to help individuals apply the evidence-based problem-solving strategy taught in Problem-Solving Training (PST). PST is a metacognitive approach that teaches users a structured, step-by-step method (A-B-C-D-E-F) to break down challenges, set realistic goals, develop action plans, and evaluate outcomes. PST helps users avoid impulsive or discouraging problem-solving attempts and instead promotes self-efficacy through achievable, meaningful progress. Decades of research - including in traumatic brain injury (TBI), stroke, and caregiver populations - support its ability to reduce distress, enhance independence, and improve problem-solving skills across diverse conditions and life challenges. The STEPS app brings this powerful strategy to users' fingertips, offering a low-cost, accessible, and scalable way to use the PST strategy independently. Designed with the cognitive and emotional needs of individuals with TBI in mind, the app also holds promise for anyone seeking a simple and effective tool to manage life's daily problems. STEPS supports personalized goal setting and real-time application of the PST method. STEPS was funded in-part by the US Department of Defense.