Optimizing the Adult Brain (Live, in-person - Toronto)

Research shows that the brain continues to grow and change in adulthood, particularly through neuro-engagement and effort-based learning. ‘Optimizing the Adult Brain’ will explore how to establish strong brain health habits using insights from concussion and depression research, and examples from patient advocacy, community, and neurotechnology experts. Panelists will offer practical, evidence-based strategies to optimize daily routines, foster cognitive resilience, and create supportive environments for adults aged 25 to 65.

Speakers:

• Ariel Garten –Creator of the Muse headband, designed to support brain health, Ariel is dedicated to creating accessible tools to help people track and improve their brain.
• Dr. Fabiano Gomes – An Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences at McMaster University, an Academic Psychiatrist in the Mood Disorders Treatment and Research Clinic at St Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton, and a member of OBI’s Canadian Biomarker Integration Network in Depression program, Fabiano has a particular interest in bipolar disorder and treatment-resistant depression.
• Andrew Kcomt - Knowledge Translation & Research Manager at the Mood Disorders Association of Ontario, and co-lead of the Canadian Biomarker Integration Network in Depression’s Community Advisory Committee, Andrew advocates for a lived experience perspective in research.
• Naomi Kramer – With a Master’s in Social Work and as well as a Certificate in Dispute Resolution, Naomi works as a Program Manager at JIAS Toronto, a government and community funded not-for-profit organization that welcomes, supports, and integrates new immigrants to Canada.
• Dr. John Leddy – A Clinical Professor and primary care sports medicine physician at the University at Buffalo’s Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, as well as a member of OBI’s TRANSCENDENT concussion program, John’s goal is to provide the best evidence-based evaluation and treatment practices to patients with concussion and post-concussion syndrome and to conduct clinical and physiological research on these conditions.

Moderator: Dr. Krishana Sankar, a trained scientist and science communicator, currently working as a science advisor for a globally recognized anti-misinformation initiative.

Host or Publisher Ontario Brain Institute