Neurological Diagnosis and Treatment for Learning Disabilities  
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Bright Minds offers Neurological Examinations Tailored for each Child


We offer a multi-disciplinary approach composed of:

Cognitive Neurology
Cognitive Neurology is a discipline of neurology that deals with the relationship between the brain structure, the brain electrical activity, and brain function. Brain function is expressed by judgment, memory, language, reading, spatial orientation, motor performance, and sensory integration. In addition, behavior is one of the manifestations of brain function. These include: mood, socialization, attention, and forethought.

Neurological Examination
A neurological examination may include two elements, an assessment of neurological functioning, and an examination of “soft” (subtle) neurological signs if a learning disability is suspected. An assessment will include a family and medical history, as well as physical examination of specific neurological functions. In some cases, a neurological examination may also include more specialized procedures such as an EEG to measure electrical activity in the brain, visual evoked response tests assess how well information travels from the eyes to the occipital lobes (visual cortex), MRI scans, or other brain-imaging techniques.

Digital EEG & Evoked Potentials Assessment (DEEP)
Measures objectively the correlation between the brain function and the electrical activity of the neural tissue: at rest, through the circadian rhythm and during specific tasks. It may measure dysfunction, mild deviations from normal or definite abnormalities in the maturational process. Evoked responses (ERP) use stimuli in the visual and auditory domains to show objective links between perceptive-cognitive deficits and electrical maturational or structural damage to the brain. Evoked responses may be altered by changes in the individual’s psychological state, underlining the importance of differentiating between focused attention and non specific alertness. DEEP also offers an objective follow up to the improvement in the functional connectivity achieved when the right method is used in the treatment of a dysfunctional state.

Neuropsychology
Neuropsychology is the study of the relationship between brain function and behavior. Neuropsychological evaluations are concerned with exploring the behavioral expression of brain dysfunction. To fully understand an individual’s unique neuropsychological profile, the following areas are assessed and integrated into a comprehensive analysis that includes recommendations for intervention. These areas include attention and concentration; memory; language; visual-spatial abilities; sensory-motor abilities; higher cognitive abilities including intellectual and executive functioning; and emotional factors.


Clinical Psychology
Psychologists are trained in human behavior, normal development, learning, and memory. They work with many kinds of mental disorders and different types of therapy. They are trained to use IQ tests, personality tests, and career tests to help children and young adults. They may provide therapy to individuals, couples, families, and groups. They cannot prescribe medicines in most states.


Educational Psychology

An educational psychologist is a PhD-level mental health expert who specializes in assessment and consultation relating to educational issues, and learning disabilities. Educational psychologists use a range of assessment tools, including intelligence and academic achievement testing.

Cognitive Therapy
Cognitive therapy takes the approach that how you think affects how you feel and behave. This therapy helps you recognize unhealthy ways of thinking that keep you stuck. You learn to identify automatic negative thoughts. You learn how to change your thoughts and this can lead to changed behaviors. It can also improve self-esteem and confidence.


Behavioral Therapy

Behavioral therapy is very structured and goal oriented. It starts with what you are doing now, then helps you change your behavior. Behavioral therapists may use techniques such as:

  • Exposure therapy or desensitization.
    This teaches you to face your fears while practicing relaxation skills.
  • Role-playing.
    This may increase assertiveness or help resolve conflicts between family members.
  • Self-monitoring, or keeping a log of your daily activities.
    This may help identify which behaviors are causing problems.

Speech Therapy
Therapists are trained to treat all aspects of speech and language pathology including: expressive and receptive language disorders, oral-motor weakness, dysphagia (swallowing difficulties), articulation disorders, dysfluency (stuttering), and voice disorders. The therapist addresses augmentative communication as needed. Typically therapy is on a weekly basis (1-2 hours per day, 2-3 days per week).


Individual Tutors

The trained tutors work with children and young adults to assess their educational level, and create an individualized program that will help achieve the appropriate educational goals.


Physical Therapy

Therapists are trained to treat all areas of gross motor dysfunction including: coordination issues, gait deviations, poor balance, developmental delays, strength deficits, endurance problems, orthopedic issues and sensory integration dysfunction. Typically therapy is on a weekly basis (1-2 hours per day 2-3 times per week). The therapist offers an intensive program (3 hours per day, 5 days per week, for 3 weeks). During all sessions children have access to specialized equipment from Europe (the Therasuit and the Universal Exercise Unit).

Occupational Therapy
Therapists are trained to treat all aspects of fine motor dysfunction including: activities of daily living (dressing, feeding, bathing, etc.), handwriting problems, sensory integration dysfunction, strength deficits, assistive technology needs and feeding. Typically therapy is on a weekly basis (1-2 hours per day 2-3 times per week).

Family Therapy
Family therapists view the family as a system. They work with the whole family rather than just one person. The therapist helps family members to openly express feelings and change negative family patterns.


Art Therapy

Drawing, painting, or working with clay with an art therapist can help you express things that you may not be able to put into words. Art therapists work with children, teens, and adults, including people with disabilities.


Pharmacological Therapy (Medicines)

Medicines can help improve brain activity. They are prescribed by a Psychiatrist or a Neurologist. We will work with you to carefully select the right medicine. Medicines may be used alone, but most people find that using medicine along with other kinds of therapy works best.

Biofeedback
Biofeedback is a therapy in which you are trained to improve your health by using information from your own body. You can learn to control many body activities that most people usually don't think of as within their control. Among these are: blood pressure, heart rate, muscle tension, and many brain wave patterns.

 

 

San Francisco Office (415) 561 - 6755
Los Angeles Office (310) 820 - 1084

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