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Call us: (619)-255-2101

Brain Treatment Center San Diego CA

Brain Treatment Center San Diego CA

Autism, Depression, PTSD and Concussion Treatment using TMS and MeRT

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    • Dr. Kim, Medical Director
    • K. Anthony Kim, M.D.
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  • What Is MeRT?
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    • MeRT Treatment Featured on “The Broken Brain” Podcast
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Conditions Treated

Conditions Treated with MeRT are Showing Significant Improvements in Symptoms

Are You or Someone You Know Experiencing Any of The Following Conditions?

  • Depression, also called Major Depressive Disorder
  • Anxiety
  • Traumatic Brain Injury/Post Concussive Syndrome
  • Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
  • Autism
  • Cognitive decline
  • Learning disabilities
  • Dementia
  • Parkinson’s Disease
  • After-effects of stroke

 

There is Hope for Various Conditions Treated with MeRT

MeRTMaybe you have tried drug therapies that did not work or that caused unpleasant side effects, or perhaps you have tried other types of therapies that provided some help, but you are still not experiencing relief. The Brain Treatment Center of San Diego is excited to bring this emerging technology to San Diego, California, and surrounding areas for various conditions.

MeRT has been successful when medications haven’t worked and can also be used with other therapies. In fact, many of our patients have reported that MeRT has improved the success of accompanying therapies.

Conditions treated by MeRT include Autism, Traumatic Brain Injuries, and Concussions, Major Depressive Disorder and Depression, PTSD, as well as other neurological conditions.

You don’t have to decide whether MeRT is right for you right now. Talk to our New Patient Coordinator to get more information. Then, if you are interested, do the initial testing followed by a consultation with the doctor. If you and the doctor decide to move forward, next is an assessment period to see if you respond to this treatment. You are then in a position to decide if full treatment is right for you.

Call Our New Patient Coordinator to Learn More

(619) 255-2101

Or fill in the form below and she will contact you.

 

 

What is MeRT?

Conditions

MeRT, which stands for Magnetic E (EEG/EKG) Resonance Therapy, is a non-pharmaceutical and non-invasive treatment used for various types of brain dysregulation.

MeRT is an emerging technology that aims to improve brain function and communication. The equipment used in MeRT is FDA-cleared to treat Major Depressive Disorder and OCD and is used off-label to treat a wide variety of conditions.

This treatment uses transcranial magnetic stimulation, also referred to as TMS. However, TMS alone is more of a one-size-fits-all method of treatment since it uses a fixed frequency to target a single area of the brain.

MeRT is a more sophisticated treatment because we can customize it to individual needs based on the results of the quantitative EEG and EKG. We tailor the treatment protocol to each person’s specific condition based on the location, frequency, and amount of power used by the magnet.

This technology uses a magnetic coil to gently neuromodulate the brain’s electrical activity. We perform a quantitative EEG on each patient to determine the exact frequency of the brain. Our clinical and scientific teams then review and evaluate the test results so that the treatment is specific to each patient’s unique condition.

Conditions treated by MeRT include Autism, Traumatic Brain Injuries and Concussions, PTSD, Major Depressive Disorder, and Depression, as well as multiple other neurological conditions.

 

Do You Have Questions?

 Our New Patient Coordinator is standing by and ready to answer any questions you may have, explain our protocols and fees, and help you decide if MeRT is the right treatment for you. She can also get your initial EEG and consultation scheduled, as a next step to seeing if you may benefit from MeRT.

Call Our New Patient Coordinator to Learn More

(619) 255-2101

Or fill in the form below and she will contact you.

Conditions Treated – Depression

MeRT Conditions Treated DepressionThe equipment used in the MeRT treatment protocols is FDA-cleared to treat Depression. This non-pharmaceutical and non-invasive treatment has been used successfully to treat depression conditions that have not responded to medication or other therapies.

Patients who are clinically depressed have markers visible in their EEG studies. MeRT is unique because treatment is guided by the qEEG results to target your specific dysfunction. What is generally seen is an imbalance in brainwave activity between the left and right hemispheres, which is called asymmetry. The MeRT protocol identifies the asymmetry by gently stimulating the brainwave activity which can reduce depression symptoms.

According to the Mayo Clinic, over three million people are diagnosed with Major Depression Disorder every year. They also report that new research is confirming that factors that may contribute to depression cause changes in brain function to include altered activity of certain neural circuits in the brain.

We customize MeRT to each individual’s needs based on the results of the EEG and EKG. We tailored the treatment protocol based on the location, frequency, and amount of power used by the magnet. This technology works by using a magnetic coil to neuromodulate the brain’s electrical activity. We performed a quantitative EEG on each patient in order to determine the exact frequency of the brain. These results are then reviewed and evaluated by the clinical and scientific team at the Brain Treatment Center San Diego so that the treatment is specific to each patient’s unique condition. To learn more about how the providers at the Brain Treatment Center San Diego utilize MeRT treatment for depression, click here.

 

Conditions Treated – Traumatic Brain Injury/Concussion

MeRT Conditions Treated - Traumatic brain injuryMeRT, or Magnetic E (EEG and EKG) Resonance Therapy, is a non-pharmaceutical and non-invasive treatment that has been successfully used to treat TBI and post-concussive syndrome. If you have suffered a head injury and are still experiencing symptoms, MeRT treatment may benefit you.

People who have suffered a brain injury will have markers visible in their EEG studies. Research has shown that people who have experienced a traumatic brain injury will have a higher power in their delta band frequencies and a lower power in the alpha bands. What this means is that parts of your brain that were injured may be “asleep.” MeRT can help to “wake up” these areas of the brain again.

The qEEG is performed on each patient before treatment in order to determine the exact frequencies of the brain. Our physicians then review and evaluate these results so that the treatment plan is specific to each patient’s unique condition. MeRT technology uses magnetic fields that pass through the scalp from an electromagnetic coil to help the brain return to normal function. Most patients have noted significant clinical improvements.

People with traumatic brain injuries often go through other types of therapies to help them regain function and cope with their injury or disability. MeRT treatment can be used in conjunction with these therapies. For more information regarding how the Brain Treatment Center of San Diego uses MeRT treatment protocols for Traumatic Brain Injury, click here.

 

Conditions Treated – Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

MeRT Conditions Treated Post-traumatic Stress DisorderPost-Traumatic Stress Disorder, or PTSD, can be a life-altering mental health problem. It is caused by experiencing or witnessing terrifying events, violence, or going through extended periods of extreme stress.

For most people who go through a traumatic event, there is a coping or grieving period that occurs afterward, but the majority usually recover with time. However, other people will have symptoms that get much worse and can last for extended periods of time. The onset of symptoms can occur right after a stressful time or can appear many years later, such as in child abuse cases, for example.

Symptoms can also disappear, only to be suddenly triggered by hearing a particular sound, seeing someone associated with the trauma, or even particular smells. It can occur out of nowhere and be no less terrifying than when the event originally occurred. PTSD can be severe enough to completely disrupt someone’s life and make it difficult to function normally. Research shows that every year, an estimated 3.6% of adults are diagnosed with PTSD, suggesting that this is a growing problem.

For more information about how the Brain Treatment Center San Diego utilizes MeRT treatment protocols for PTSD, click here.

 

MeRT Treatment Featured on “The Broken Brain” Podcast

If you suffer from Depression, Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and other conditions treated, we highly recommend watching this incredible podcast. Dr. Erik Won, from Wave Neuroscience (the parent company behind MeRT technology), speaks about how this technology has evolved and the utilization of MeRT treatment for members of the military who have experienced depression, TBI, and PTSD as a result of their service to their country. Dr. Won also gives testimony to the incredible successes that these veterans have realized as a result of going through treatment. For MeRT, conditions treated also include Autism and other neurological conditions.

With other repercussions that can occur for both military and veterans, this is incredibly important. For example, suicide is at twice the rate for veterans, with approximately 17 veteran deaths per day. In a high-stress environment, such as serving in the military, the transition afterward can be complicated, and there are often underlying reasons for conditions that may occur. MeRT may help to address these issues.

Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, and TBI don’t just affect veterans; if you are experiencing any symptoms as a result of any of these conditions, this podcast can be of help to you. Click here to watch this amazing podcast! 

Conditions Treated – Autism

MeRT Conditions Treated AutismThe Brain Treatment Center of San Diego offers MeRT treatment for children and adults who have Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). There are different types of therapies that can help with autism and we can use MeRT in conjunction with any of those, though MeRT treatment can be done independently of other therapies as well.

A diagnosis of autism can be overwhelming for parents, but early intervention can be key to the child’s development. MeRT isn’t a cure for Autism, but most patients see significant improvement in social skills, communication skills, and many others, which allow kids to be more independent and function to the best of their ability.

MeRT is not currently FDA-approved for autism and is considered “off-label.” However, studies have shown that for many children, it can be instrumental in helping them develop skills to function more normally.

For more information about how the providers at the Brain Treatment Center San Diego can help patients with Autism, click here.

MeRT treatment for autism was featured on the television show “The Doctors.” You can watch the episode here.

 

The MeRT Process

Studies have shown altered brain wave oscillations in patients suffering from conditions such as Depression and Major Depression Disorder (MDD), as well as other conditions such as PTSD, Traumatic Brain Injury, Autism, Dementia, and others.

MeRT treatment protocols use a magnetic field to balance and stimulate brain function. The technology involves using brain imaging and sophisticated diagnostics to customize treatment for each individual. This personalized protocol is tailored based on the location, frequency, and amount of power used by the magnet. The objective of MeRT is to improve brain communication and synchronization, leading to significant and long-lasting improvements.

Conditions

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Do You Have Questions?

 Our New Patient Coordinator is standing by and ready to answer any questions you may have, explain our protocols and fees, and help you decide if MeRT is the right treatment for you. She can also schedule your initial EEG and consultation as a next step to see if you may benefit from MeRT.

Call Our New Patient Coordinator to Learn More

(619) 255-2101

Or fill in the form below and she will contact you.

 

What to Expect When Starting as a New Patient

We understand that MeRT is a relatively new, cutting-edge treatment, and you may not be certain if this is right for your situation. But this is not a decision that you need to make right away or all alone.

Your first step would be a simple phone consultation with our New Patient Coordinator. Here you can discuss symptoms and history, ask all the questions you want, and have her explain the protocols, fees, and details of treatment.

Testing and Evaluation

If you are interested in taking the next step, we can set up an appointment for an EEG (a simple, painless, and non-invasive brain scan).

At your first appointment, we will perform a qEEG (quantitative EEG)/EKG test to evaluate brain activity. This test, also called “brain mapping,” will show us any dysfunction and confirm that your brain health issue falls under the conditions treated by MeRT. This tool is valuable as it allows us to customize treatment specifically for YOU. Our chief neurotechnician performs this test, which takes approximately 45 minutes to complete. However, if you are seeking treatment for your child with autism, please plan on spending an hour with us. We will also gather your new patient paperwork and schedule you for your initial assessment period of treatment.

Conditions treatedThe second appointment is a clinical evaluation with Nurse Practitioner Kayleigh Prowse and takes approximately 45 minutes. You can complete this appointment via telemedicine or in-clinic, whichever you prefer. Please note that if you choose a telemedicine appointment and are seeking treatment for your child, your child will need to be present. During this consultation, Kayleigh will answer any questions you may have and discuss your applicable treatment plan. Additionally, you will have an opportunity to meet with our physician and Medical Director, Julie Kim, M.D.

Assessment Period

We recommend six weeks of treatment for patients undergoing MeRT to achieve optimal and long-lasting results. However, prior to committing to the six weeks, we have each patient go through an assessment period of treatment to see how they will respond. We include this assessment period as part of the six weeks of treatment.

The assessment period is two weeks long. It consists of nine treatment sessions, followed by a repeat qEEG. We provide treatment for the first week, Monday through Friday, and the following week, Monday through Thursday. A typical treatment session lasts about 30 to 45 minutes. Additionally, your provider will go over the follow-up qEEG results with you.

Continued Treatment

If clinical changes are occurring as they should, and the qEEG also shows progress, then you would then continue treatment, which would occur five days per week, Monday through Friday. Generally, you will begin to feel the benefits of treatment within a week or two. However, because treatment is cumulative, you should continue to note improvements throughout the course of your treatment and even for some weeks after. As treatment is consecutive, you must be able to stay in or around the area while undergoing your therapy.

Improvements and results of MeRT are based on strict and active observation of our treatment protocols. Results may vary based on each person and are not guaranteed.

Because each person’s brain and condition are unique, we customize treatment protocols for each patient, guided by the qEEG results. Repeat qEEGs and clinical consultations occur every two weeks throughout treatment. The effects of treatment generally last a lifetime, though some people prefer occasional follow-up treatment.

During your session, you will sit in a comfortable chair while the neuro technician administers this gentle treatment with a hand-held magnet near the scalp. While you may feel a slight sensation during treatment, it is not painful or uncomfortable. We deliver magnetic pulses for 6-8 seconds during each minute of treatment.

Potential side effects of treatment are minimal and should begin to dissipate after you begin to progress through treatment.

 

Insurance

We are an in-network provider with TRICARE. If you have TRICARE insurance, it is possible that your policy may provide coverage for you or a family member, depending on your specific policy and condition.  Our New Patient Coordinator can discuss this with you in further detail.
For all other insurance, we are out of network and are unable to file insurance on your behalf. We can provide you with the appropriate paperwork at the end of your treatment. You can submit it to your insurance company to see if they would provide you with any reimbursement.
 
Currently, the FDA has approved rTMS for Depression and OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder.) Treatment for all other conditions is considered “off-label.” However, for non-FDA-approved treatment, it is not likely that insurance will provide reimbursement for our protocols.
 
Some patients have reported that they have been able to receive some reimbursement for EEGs or clinical evaluations. But this depends on their health coverage. Medicare patients have reported that their coverage provides no reimbursement for MeRT.
 
We take all major credit cards, including Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover.
 
Care Credit is also an option for financing medical expenses. This is a separate company from The Brain Treatment Center Newport Beach. It is a credit card that can be used to cover medical expenses and services. They typically offer zero-interest financing for 12 months.
 
Usually, when you go to the Care Credit website and apply, they will let you know of your approval. 

 

Contact Our New Patient Coordinator for More Information

Conditions treatedOur New Patient Coordinator is here for you. She will take the time to answer any questions that you may have, listen to your concerns, carefully explain all the details, and confirm that we can treat your health issue.

If, after talking to her, you wish to further explore whether you could benefit from MeRT, the next step is to schedule your EEG and a consultation. With thorough diagnostics, the doctor can show you what is happening in your brain and what may be causing the issue. At this point, we can determine whether you may benefit from MeRT treatment. Then you can decide if you would like to move forward.

Call Our New Patient Coordinator to Learn More

(619) 255-2101

Or fill in the form below and she will contact you.

Contact Us

For more information or to speak with our New Patient Coordinator, please fill in the information below.

  • Absolute Contraindications

    Absolute contraindications for cortical MeRT treatment: Pacemaker, Defibrillator, Vagal Nerve Stimulator, VP Shunt/ Magnetic intracranial shunts, Deep Brain Stimulator, Epidural Cortical stimulator, Steel shunts/stents, Cranial metal fragments (i.e. shrapnel, excluding titanium), Cochlear implant, Aneurysm clips, coils, pipelines flow diversion, Pregnant or breastfeeding, Primary brain cancer / metastatic legions in brain (unless palliative care), Magnetic dental implants, Implanted cardio-verter defibrillators (ICD), Ocular implants.
  • Relative Contraindications

    Relative contraindications require closer protocol attention and may or may not disqualify someone from receiving cortical MeRT treatment, depending on the doctor’s discretion and the person’s individual condition. These include:: History of Seizure or seizure disorder, Titanium shunts/stents, Spinal Cord Stimulator, Hearing aids, Ferrous cortical implants, Magnetic ink tattoo, Bipolar Disorder Type I/II, Baha Implant.

 

Life Can Be Better

You can be at peace and enjoy life again! We encourage you to explore the possibilities of MeRT Treatment. If it is right for you, it can have a lasting impact and greatly improve your quality of life.

THE PATH TO A BRIGHTER FUTURE

LET’S GET STARTED

We identify & nurture where the brain has difficulty communicating. Our New Patient Coordinator is happy to talk with you, explain the our treatment protocols and fees and answer any questions you may have.

Contact our New Patient Coordinator for a Consultation

CALL: (619) 255-2101

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Contact Us

New Patients:
Contact our New Patient
Coordinator at

(619)-255-2101

 

Existing Patients:
Contact Our Clinic at
(619)-255-2101

Hours of Operation


Monday to Friday

8AM to 4PM

Our Locations

Brain Treatment San Diego
2445 Fifth Avenue, Suite 300

San Diego, CA 92101


Our Cardiff Location:
2181 San Elijo Avenue
Cardiff, CA 92007