Your Brain is a Wonderous Thing!

The brain is composed of approximately 100 billion neurons.

You are probably familiar with the fact that the brain is composed of approximately 100 billion neurons. It’s interesting because the brain works through populations of neurons interacting with each other. One of the ways that they interact is through tiny electrical oscillations or brain waves.

If we can positively affect injured or non-neurotypical brains, we may not be far from improving connections in healthy brains and enhancing intelligence in a generalized way.” – Luke Nosek of Founders Fund on Brain Treatment Center

What is MeRT?

Your neurons can be disrupted by many things

The quality of behavior between your neurons can be disrupted by many things; you may have a:

• Sleep disorder
• Congenital condition
• Chemical trauma / addiction
• An acute injury to the head
• High amounts of stress, Emotional Trauma, Anxiety
• Illness or Disease
• Developmental disorders such as Autism, Learning disorders, ADD, ADHD

Disruptions can be minor or significant – everyone has different thresholds of tolerance, but what is amazing is that with a little nudging in the right direction, the brain can be improved. Some people can still function in their day-to-day activities, while others are completely debilitated and have no quality of life.

Call Our New Patient Coordinator to Learn More

(619) 255-2101

The MeRT Platform

Our technology is a platform to restore the mind

Through the measurement and analysis of your brainwave activity, we identify disruptions to your brain network and build treatment parameters specifically tailored to your needs. In most cases we can visibly reshape brainwave activity, regardless of what may have caused the disruption to begin with.

The MeRT platform is a patent-protected process that is currently undergoing rigorous research by the Department of Defense and several private institutions.

MeRT Approach

Analyzes brainwave data to deliver targeted treatment parameters & give you the best outcomes possible

By combining our deep expertise in neuroscience with machine learning analysis we can decode and classify functional indicators in the brain that can be changed by using individualized treatment tools.

We can identify exactly where the brain waves are not communicating properly and help to restore proper function. MeRT technology can reshape the activity in the brain, regardless of what caused the dysfunction.

What is MeRT and How Does it Work?

MeRT, or Magnetic e-Resonance Therapy is an emerging treatment protocol that uses the combined technologies of rTMS (Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation), qEEG (Quantitative Electroencephalogram, and EKG (Electrocardiogram) to tailor treatment protocols to each person’s unique brain wave patterns.

MeRT is non-surgical, non-invasive, painless and completely drug-free. Gentle magnetic waves are used to reprogram dysfunctional electrical signals in the brain to modify behavior and restore function.

The Four Steps to MeRT

Evaluation

First, we will perform a q-EEG and an EKG. These diagnostic tests are used to determine the frequencies in the brain and the brain-heart coherence. Once this has been done, our scientists and physicians will interpret and analyze the results to determine the exact function of the brain.

Analysis and Protocol

We use a scientific and patented approach with the data gathered from testing to develop a tailored treatment plan for each individual with the goal of restoring function and brain communication.

MeRT Treatment

Once your treatment protocols are in place, you will come to therapy, 5 days a week, in two-week intervals. All that is needed from you is to sit in a comfortable chair while a highly-trained neuro-technician places a magnetic coil on your head. This device produces a low-frequency magnetic field to induce mild electrical signals in the targeted areas of the brain. Time spent in the chair is typically 30-minutes. The stimulation occurs for 6-8 seconds every minute. You will be required to close your eyes during the 6-8 second periods that the magnet is being used.

Progress Evaluation

An additional qEEG and EKG will be performed after two weeks of treatment to allow us to track your progress and make any needed modifications. We also monitor your progress throughout your daily treatments to confirm how you are feeling and to track improvements in the way that you are feeling.

To achieve optimal success results from MeRT, most conditions require 6-8 weeks of treatment.

Results are based on strict compliance with our treatment regimens. Results may vary based on each individual and are not guaranteed. Currently, MeRT is FDA approved to treat Major Depressive Disorder. Treatment for all other conditions is considered “off label” at this time, although we do anticipate FDA approval soon for Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

There have been numerous studies that have shown the effectiveness of MeRT treatment on various conditions and research continues to be ongoing.

 

Common Benefits of MeRT Treatment Can Include:

• Improved sleep
• Relaxation, and better mood
• Better able to concentrate and focus
• Improved mental clarity
• Improved memory
• Better ability to cope with stressors
• Improved social skills
• Increased motivation
• Fewer cravings for drugs and/or alcohol
• Better ability to adapt to change
• Less anxiety
• Improved ability to interact with others
• Improved confidence

Call Our New Patient Coordinator to Learn More

619-255-2101

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

What to Expect

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 needs to be made 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.

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

Your first appointment with us will consist of us performing a qEEG (quantitative EEG)/EKG test which is used to evaluate brain activity and will show us any dysfunction or communications that are occurring. A qEEG is sometimes referred to as a “brain map” and shows exact areas of the brain that are experiencing dysfunction. This tool is valuable as it allows us to customize treatment specifically for YOU. This test is performed by our chief neuro technician and 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 at this time, and get you scheduled for your initial assessment period of treatment.

The second appointment is a clinical evaluation with Kate Ryan, R.N., and takes approximately 45-minutes. This appointment can be completed 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, Kate 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.

6-weeks of treatment is recommended for patients undergoing MeRT in order to achieve optimal and long-lasting results. However, prior to committing to the 6-weeks of treatment, we have each patient first go through an assessment period of treatment to see how they will respond. The assessment period is included in the 6-weeks of treatment.

The assessment is 1 to 2 weeks long depending on the age of the patient. For children who are 10 years and younger, the assessment period is 1 week in length. It consists of attending 4 treatment sessions, Monday through Thursday, and is followed by a repeat qEEG to determine progress.

Assessment for anyone 11 years and older is 2-weeks in length and consists of 9 treatment sessions followed by a repeat qEEG. Treatment would be provided the first week, Monday through Friday, and the following week, Monday through Thursday. A typical treatment session lasts about 30-45 minutes.

Additionally, the follow-up qEEG results will be covered with you by your provider.

If clinical changes are occurring as they should, and the qEEG also shows progress, then you would then continue treatment which would occur 5 days per week, Monday through Friday. Generally, you will begin to feel the benefits of treatment within a week or two, but because treatment is cumulative, should continue to note improvements throughout the course of your treatment, and even for some weeks after treatment. Because treatment is consecutive, you must be able to stay in or around the Newport Beach area while undergoing your therapy.

For those who are not ready to commit to an assessment period, or if we need to see the results of the testing to confirm that MeRT can help, we also offer the option of coming in for a qEEG/EKG and then having a consultation with Kate and/or Dr. Kim to go over the results. After your clinical consultation, you will still have the option of going through an assessment period should you choose to do so.

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 brains and conditions are unique, treatment protocols are customized specifically for each individual which are guided by the qEEG results. Repeat qEEGs and clinical consultations occur every 2-weeks throughout treatment. The effects of treatment generally last a lifetime, though some folks do prefer occasional follow-up treatment as needed.

During your treatment session, you will sit in a comfortable chair while the neuro technician administers this gentle treatment with a hand-held magnet that is held near the scalp. While you may feel a slight sensation during treatment, it is not painful or uncomfortable. Magnetic pulses are delivered 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 Coverage and Payment Options

We can provide you with the appropriate paperwork at the end of your treatment so that you can submit it to your insurance company to see if they would provide you with any reimbursement. Currently, rTMS is FDA cleared for Depression and OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder.) Treatment for all other conditions is considered “off-label” at this time, though we are hopeful that treatment for TBI (Traumatic Brain Injury) and PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) will be FDA cleared at some point in the next couple of years.

Some patients have reported that they have been able to receive some reimbursement for EEGs or clinical evaluations, depending on their health coverage. Medicare patients have reported that their coverage provides no reimbursement for MeRT. For non-FDA-approved treatment, it is highly unlikely that any insurance will provide reimbursement for our protocols.

We take all major credit cards including Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover.

Contact Our New Patient Coordinator for more Information

It’s normal for patients and their families who are affected by neurological conditions to feel frustrated and isolated. Many have lost hope that treatment can improve the condition.

MeRT is a treatment protocol that has helped patients restore their brain function, reclaim their lives, and feel passionate about living again. We have some understanding of what you may be going through.  We want to help guide you through the process so that you can make an informed decision about whether or not MeRT is the right treatment for you or your child.

It doesn’t cost anything to call us and talk about what is happening. Our New Patient Coordinator is here for you. She understands your pain. She listens. She can explain the process and protocols, costs, possible insurance benefits, and any other details you want to know. She can answer your questions. There are no obligations and she will take the time you need to know whether or not you should take the next steps.

Call Our New Patient Coordinator to Learn More

(619) 255-2101

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

MeRT Treatment Protocol Featured on “Broken Brain” Podcast

Mark Hyman, M.D. is an esteemed functional medicine physician and best-selling author. He founded the Cleveland Clinic Functional Medicine Clinic and created an ongoing podcast called “The Broken Brain.” This podcast focuses on all sorts of different things that affect brain and overall health, from diet to sleep, to therapy.

MeRT was featured on one of his podcasts as an exciting new treatment for patients suffering from traumatic brain injuries, post-traumatic stress disorder, and major depressive disorder.

Dr. Erik Won, president of The Brain Treatment Center, was interviewed and spoke extensively about the origins of MeRT technologies, and how it has been used to treat veterans who have suffered these types of conditions after returning from war. The Department of Defense completed extensive studies on how MeRT treatment has been able to help these people, and Dr. Won talks about the many successes that have been realized in this podcast.  Click here to watch this amazing podcast! 

MeRT Treatment Featured on “The Doctors” TV Show for Autism Treatment

Many children with Autism have experienced some miraculous results in their overall function after going through MeRT treatment.**  “The Doctors” interviewed neurologist, Spencer O. Miller, MD who has been utilizing this treatment, and some moms of kids with Autism give their testimonials as well! Click here to watch this episode!