Our Approach
We Study the Neuroscience & Help Therapists Use Neuroplasticity
Using Neuroplasticity to Reduce Symptoms
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Stop focusing on only labeling symptoms and learning to cope.
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By focusing on the brain, we can reduce most symptoms that are interconnected and improve skills that generalize across environments.
A Bottom-up Approach to improve Mental Health, Balance & Coordination, and Quality of Life.
It starts with an observational Neurological Assessment. Our therapists are trained in mapping deficits within the Central Nervous System and then exercising the weak regions. We no longer only practice skills, but rather first treat the root of the deficit.
We assess regions of the brain, through symptoms and observational assessments.
Assessment Templates
You’ll receive a neuro assessment template to aide in the evaluation process and learn how to map your findings and design a treatment protocol. Click the image for a larger view.
Neurological Input to Strengthen the Brain
Once this deficits are mapped, we do basic and specific physical movement in order to stimulate the weak regions of the brain.
We prioritize input based on the nervous system’s hierarchy. We repeat these movements, as tolerated, to build strength in the brain.
Similarly to performing bicep curls to build strength and endurance.
Same Occupational Therapy Goals, New Advanced Approach
Increase independence in daily life by improving the brain’s ability to control.
Attention
Sensory Processing
Memory
Impulses
Balance
Coordination
Initiation
Frustration / Anger
We aim to Balance the Brain to Improve Global Skills for Everyday Life
Many of our weaknesses in our functional day-to-day performance is related to an imbalance in our Central Nervous System.
Anxiety, for example, is our check-engine light. It alerts us that something new is coming and to pay attention, something may be wrong. It’s a normal and essential part of our physiology.
However, it becomes a concern and diagnosis, when it is chronic and interferes with our ability to perform in activities of daily living, including work, school, relationships. and leisure.
When anxiety is not based on a current life stressor and we feel “stuck”, it becomes and Central Nervous System dysfunction. By providing the “just-right” amount of input, we can train the brain out of it’s dysfunctional pattern.
Developing a Balanced Nervous System
At birth we are in a primitive state, reflexive, primarily operating from our brainstem. We are hardwired to cry when we are hungry, root to the nipple to feed, and startle to cry hard to alert caregivers of potential danger and protect vital organs.
Then our system starts to be more relaxed and engaged. The infant starts to follow mom with their eyes, kicks, lifts head, rolls over, and smiles.
Through Strategic CNS Input, We Can Solve Problems
- ADHD
- Sensory Processing Dysfunction
- TBI / Concussion
- Learning Disabilities
- Anxiety / Panic Disorders
- Stroke
- Autism
- Chronic Fatigue
- Autonomic Dysfunctions
Our Training
Due to the natural development of our nervous system, CNSI is a bottom-up approach. We first introduce the idea of treating the brain through learning the lobes. Sequentially, CNSI therapists, learn to establish a foundation for the nervous system through stabilizing the brainstem and vestibular function. Therapists additionally learn how to grade exercises to avoid neuro fatigue, the relationship between autonomic dysfunction and signs of systematic pathology.
Level 1 & 2
Therapists will leave our course with skills and resources to assess and exercise the brain.
Level 3 & 4
Therapists have confidence in knowing when to push their clients and when to be reserved. As well as, when to focus on the peripheral system versus the central.
Level 5 & 6
Therapists are trained in recognizing inflammation, autonomic dysfunction, and medical conditions that may need referrals and how that fits into their treatment.
Although we are exercising the brain, our goals are directed at improving day-to-day function that is meaningful to our clients. Just like if we increase the speed of our computer, our whole work day runs smoother. If we improve the brain, our whole life gets easier.