The last decade has seen considerable development in the field of neuropsychological rehabilitation following brain damage, and the use of computerized methods has attracted attention and stimulated controversy. This practically-oriented text reviews representative examples from the literature relating to the training of cognitive systems with the emphasis on studies describing the use of computerized methods. The topic is discussed in context and the contents include sections on cognitive change in neurological disorders, assessment techniques, the interaction between cognition and behaviour and the advantages and disadvantages of the use of microcomputers. The authors describe the evaluation of a computerized cognitive retraining programme run at the Regional Neurological Centre in Newcastle-upon-Tyne and draw on their experience of running such programmes to give practical guidance to those wishing to set up cognitive retraining programmes.