Psychogenic non-epileptic seizures program
Directors:
Lorna Myers, PhD and Marcelo Lancman, MD
Program description:
Psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (also known as dissociative or functional seizures) are events that resemble epileptic seizures but are provoked by emotional dysregulation and/or physical stress rather than abnormal electrical brain activity. Treatment for psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES) is a team effort by the epileptologist, clinical psychologist, neuropsychologist, and psychiatrist (if needed).
NEREG's clinicians have a unique and specialized diagnostic and treatment approach for this condition. Once the diagnosis has been made by the epileptologist following VEEG and other testing procedures, a referral is made for a psychological interview by a licensed clinical psychologist. During this interview, questions are asked about current and past history, including social, educational, psychological, and medical background. A comprehensive neuropsychological assessment is also completed with a special battery of tests to assess memory, language, attention, and general thinking as well as key emotional factors and personality. Based on these results, a decision is made between the clinician and patient regarding possible treatment options and, if needed, a referral to psychiatry for medication evaluation is made.
Once it is determined that our program is appropriate for the patient, individual and/or group (12 sessions) psychotherapy can begin. Treatment often targets trauma symptoms, depressive worldviews, anxiety, and problems with anger and stress management. Treatment can be trauma-focused (e.g., prolonged exposure) or psychoeducational and skills-based. It is supportive, but also teaches the patient skills and techniques to learn to reduce or eliminate the non-epileptic events, attain a healthier and adaptive way of functioning, and better stress coping methods. Once the patient completes the therapy program, a monthly virtual support group is available.
In-person treatment is offered in the following location:
NEW YORK:
Manhattan
Virtual treatment through Doxy.me is also offered to patients who prefer to be seen through this modality
Recent publications on psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES):
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/?term=lorna%20myers%20psychogenic&page=3
Webinars
• Psychogenic non epileptic seizures webinar: an Introduction for patients and loved ones - Dr. Lorna Myers
• Psychogenic non epileptic seizures: what psychologists need to know - Dr. Lorna Myers
• Dr. Lorna Myers, New book: Psychogenic non- epileptic seizures: A Guide
• Crisis Psicogenas no-epilepticas
Other resources:
https://nonepilepticseizures.com/
Make an appointment:
Services are offered in many of our New York and New Jersey offices. Talk to your epileptologist about obtaining a referral, or call 212-661-7467.
Email Inquiries: dramyers@yahoo.com