Psychogenic Nonepileptic Seizures (PNES) & Functional Neurologic Symptoms

 Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) can take over your life. Psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES), Functional movement disorders (FMD), and Persistent postural perceptual dizziness (PPPD) interfere with life and pull you out of the things you love. Before starting, it will be helpful to have a workup with a neurologist to rule out other medical conditions. We think of these symptoms as a dysfunction of the nervous system. There are many ways our nervous system tries to communicate with us, and sometimes it sends  FND when other forms of communication have not worked.

 

Our approach to FND treatment is based in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), two evidence-based treatments for these conditions. This includes nervous system education, improving the mind-body connection, relaxation strategies, identifying and responding to “triggers”, communication with family and employers, improving participation in meaningful life activities, and cognitive strategies. FND treatment is typically 10-14 visits.