10 Years of Excellence at Pacific Neuroscience Institute | An OverviewPacific Neuroscience Institute2026-09-20 | 10 Years of Excellence at Pacific Neuroscience Institute | An OverviewPacific Neuroscience Institute: Santa Monica ClinicsPacific Neuroscience Institute2023-11-21 | Experience world-class neuro care at Pacific Neuroscience Institute®. In Santa Monica and surrounding areas, PNI clinics are conveniently located near our award-winning hospital partner, Providence Saint John's Health Center.
Experts across many specialties care for with all kinds of neurological conditions. Brain health & lifestyle interventions Brain tumor & pituitary disorders ENT & vision Movement disorders Stroke & neurovascular diseases Facial pain & hydrocephalus
Discover our practices!
2125 Arizona Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90404 1301 20th St, Santa Monica, CA 90404 2200 Santa Monica Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90404 11645 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90025
Learn more at PacificNeuro.org or by calling 310-582-7640.Frequently Asked Questions About Facial Nerve DisordersPacific Neuroscience Institute2023-11-21 | Webinar: Pacific Neuroscience Institute Facial Nerve Series Speaker: Dr. Amit Kochhar, PNI
Amit Kochhar, MD, is double board-certified in Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery and Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. He is the director of the Facial Nerve Disorders Program at Pacific Eye, Ear & Skull Base Center, Pacific Neuroscience Institute, Providence Saint John’s Health Center in Santa Monica. Uncover the answers to commonly asked questions in this enlightening webinar, providing invaluable insights and support tailored for patients.
Dr. Kochhar's Clinic: Pacific Neuroscience Institute / Pacific Head & Neck 11645 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 600, Los Angeles, CA 9002549. Exercise is Fertilizer for the Brain | Dr. David MerrillPacific Neuroscience Institute2023-11-21 | For decades, people thought physical exercise benefited only the body. But every year we learn how incorrect that was, and Dr. David Merrill, director of PNI’s brain health center, is one of the people pushing our knowledge forward. It turns out that exercise builds the brain by prompting the production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor, or BDNF. “Trophic” compounds cause things to grow, and BDNF helps create new connections among neurons, which is how we learn. In short, BDNF is fertilizer for the brain, Dr. Merrill says. In a perfect world, we would be able to take BDNF in a pill, like a vitamin. But it’s a big, clunky molecule that doesn’t pass easily from blood to brain. Exercise gets the job done, boosting BDNF and keeping our brains nimble. That fact makes exercise crucial as we age. Pumping iron, and therefore pumping up BDNF, promotes brain plasticity: the ability to change, grow and adapt to the insults that come with growing older. Listen to this episode to hear how you can boost BDNF through exercise and stay sharp into your golden years.A Sound Investment: Your Donation Provides the Gift of Hearing!Pacific Neuroscience Institute2023-11-06 | At PNI, our dedicated providers in the Hearing Restoration Program address a diverse range of needs, from infants grappling with congenital hearing loss to adults facing age-related challenges. By donating to PNI, you can help transform lives through the precious gift of hearing.
Together, let's amplify the joy of sound. Donate now: pacificneuro.org/donate48. Charting the Brain, in Great Detail | Dr. Garni Barkhoudarian & Josh EmersonPacific Neuroscience Institute2023-10-18 | When he’s not being a world-class neurosurgeon caring for patients with brain or pituitary tumors, Dr. Garni Barkhoudarian trains younger surgeons on the science and art of neurosurgery. As director of the Neuroanatomical Skills / Microdissection Anatomy Lab, he advances the procedures and technology used for minimally invasive surgery. Neurosurgeons can enter PNI’s fellowship program, and research fellows from around the world can learn these advanced techniques taking them into their practices and back to their home countries. In college, Josh Emerson wanted to study the neuroanatomy of whales and dolphins, but when he realized he’d have to spend time on boats he switched to human neuroanatomy instead. A talented artist, he often doodled the things he studied. One day, he drew a human spinal cord, complete with a herniated disk. A visiting surgeon looked over his shoulder, took out a $100 bill, handed it to him and told him to see a colleague about doing more medical illustrations. Emerson has never looked back. A medical illustrator for over two decades he is the Microdissection Lab Manager at PNI, where he works closely with Dr. Barkhoudarian. Josh has moved on from pen and ink to computer-aided animation. Listen to this podcast to learn how this pair works together to map some of the smallest, most important structures in the human body.Parkinsons Disease: Understanding the Impact of Social Isolation & LonelinessPacific Neuroscience Institute2023-10-11 | Welcome to the Everything Parkinson’s Webinar, your source for expert guidance on managing life with Parkinson's disease (PD). In this edition, join Maureen Feldman, Director of the Social Isolation Impact Project for the Motion Picture & Television Fund, as she shares the impact of social isolation and loneliness on the general population, as well as the heightened risk for individuals with PD.
In this enlightening webinar, you will gain insights into:
🔷 The 3 vital components of social connection. 🔷 Interventions to maintain social engagement. 🔷 The dangers of isolation. 🔷 The power of social connection for those living with PD.
Subscribe for additional clinical insights on your journey with PD.
Everything Parkinson's Webinars: pacificneuroscienceinstitute.org/resources/webinars/#parkinsons-webinarsMedical Assistants In Training Program at Pacific Neuroscience InstitutePacific Neuroscience Institute2023-10-07 | Young scholars who are college graduates with a bachelors or associates degree can find an exciting and fulfilling opportunity in the medical field at the Medical Assistants In Training (MAT) Program at Pacific Neuroscience Institute. Physician mentors and experienced MAs guide trainees through the 2-3 year program where they learn important and relevant skills to care for patients in the ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialty area.
To learn more contact 310-477-5558.
pacificheadandneck.comA PNI Minute: Ischemic vs Hemorrhagic Stroke with Dr. Sandra NarayananPacific Neuroscience Institute2023-09-29 | Sandra Narayanan, MD, Vascular Neurologist and Neurointerventional Surgeon at the Pacific Stroke and Neurovascular Center at Pacific Neuroscience Institute, explains the difference between hemorrhagic and ischemic stroke.
The main difference between the two types of stroke is the underlying cause of the brain damage. In ischemic stroke, the damage is caused by a lack of blood supply due to a blood clot, while in hemorrhagic stroke, it is caused by bleeding into the brain tissue. Both types of stroke are medical emergencies and require immediate medical attention to prevent further damage and improve outcomes.
pacificneuroscienceinstitute.org/stroke-neurovascular/conditions-and-treatments/strokeA PNI Minute: What Are Cavernomas? | With Dr. Adi IyerPacific Neuroscience Institute2023-09-25 | Cavernomas are a vascular mass made up of abnormal dilated blood vessels characterized by distended blood-filled “caverns.” Vessels of a cavernoma mass have a tendency to leak and bleed because they lack the proper junctions between neighboring cells as well as the necessary structural support from smooth muscle and the stretchable material (elastin) that normally supports regular blood vessels.
While a new diagnosis of brain cavernoma can produce natural anxious responses in many patients, the most important thing to remember is that you are not alone — cavernomas can occur in as many as 1 out of every 200 people – and our team of experts is here to help you understand your condition and determine an optimal, personalized treatment plan for your needs.
pacificneuroscienceinstitute.org/stroke-neurovascular/conditions-and-treatments/brain-vascular-malformation/cavernoma47. Keeping Dementia at Bay, Every Day | A PNI Panel DiscussionPacific Neuroscience Institute2023-09-20 | Dr. David Merrill is a psychiatrist who specializes in older adults. He has a PhD in the neurobiology of aging, and he directs PNI’s Brain Health Center. His colleague Dr. Karen Miller, has a PhD in geropsychology–the psychology of older people. She is the senior director of PNI’s Brain Wellness and Lifestyle Program. Molly Rapozo is a registered dietician nutritionist. They work as a trio to help older people stave off the ravages of dementia through diet, exercise, and cognitive training. Their work is crucial because, despite some recent, modest advances on a drug to treat Alzheimer’s, there just isn’t a pill that can keep our brains in tip-top shape as we age. What we have are some behaviors that are proven to protect the brain from premature dysfunction. Listen to this podcast to learn what our all-star team knows about the best strategies.Enhancing Your Brain Health With Parkinsons Ft. Giselle U. Tamula, MSN, NP-CPacific Neuroscience Institute2023-09-19 | Welcome to the Everything Parkinson’s Webinar, your source for expert guidance on managing life with PD. In this edition, join Giselle Therese U. Tamula, MSN, NP-C, nurse practitioner at Pacific Movement Disorders Center, as she imparts essential knowledge on elevating cognitive function.
In this enlightening webinar, you will gain insights into:
🔷 The 6 Pillars of Cognitive Well-being - Explore the foundational principles that underpin a healthy and vibrant brain.
🔷 Crafting a Personalized Strategy - Learn the art of creating a tailored plan to effectively integrate these lifestyle adjustments into your routine.
🔷 Professional Support - Benefit from expert guidance, tailored for both you and your care partners, as you progress on your path toward optimized brain health.
Subscribe for additional clinical insights on your journey with Parkinson's Disease.
Everything Parkinson's Webinars: pacificneuroscienceinstitute.org/resources/webinars/#parkinsons-webinars29. Medications Updates for Motor Symptoms of Parkinsons Disease | August 2023Pacific Neuroscience Institute2023-09-14 | Dr. Melita Petrossian provides a comprehensive review of medication updates for Parkinson's disease. Dr. Petrossian is the director of Pacific Movement Disorders Center, and is a movement neurologist at Pacific Neuroscience Institute - Santa Monica, California.
Sam Oyer, MD, FACS is a facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon. He provides cosmetic and reconstructive treatments of the face and neck in all age groups ranging from minimally invasive, in-office treatments to extensive reconstructive surgery. He has a particular interest in facial paralysis treatment, including options for partial and complete paralysis. Learn about the social and psychological impacts of facial paralysis in this informative webinar, offering valuable insights and support for patients.
Dr. Oyer's Clinic: Facial Cosmetic and Reconstructive Surgery 415 Ray C. Hunt Dr 2nd Floor, Suite 2200, Charlottesville, VA 22903
Dr. Kochhar's Clinic: Pacific Neuroscience Institute / Pacific Head & Neck 11645 Wilshire Blvd., #600, Los Angeles, CA 9002546. Psilocybin for Major Depressive Disorder | Guest PodcastPacific Neuroscience Institute2023-09-06 | In a study sponsored by Usona Institute and published on August 31, 2023, in the Journal of the American Medical Association, psilocybin showed promise as a treatment for major depressive disorder (MDD).
JAMA Associate Editor Dr. Donald C. Goff, speaks with publication author Dr. Charles L. Raison, from the Usona Institute, about the study, as well as Dr. Rachel Yehuda from Mount Sinai School of Medicine, who wrote an accompanying editorial about the potential benefits of psychedelic therapies.
Pacific Neuroscience Institute's director of Treatment & Research In Psychedelics Center, Dr. Keith Heinzerling and PNI director Dr. Daniel Kelly were a co-investigators in this study.Attention as a Building Block in Cognition | Jesús Barreto Abrams, PhDPacific Neuroscience Institute2023-08-31 | Clinical neuropsychologist, Dr. Barreto explains how attention is essential to our understanding. Learn about the difference between attentional issues can manifest as memory problems.
For more information: 424-212-5361Brain Wellness & Lifestyle Classes at Pacific Neuroscience Institute | Karen Miller, PhDPacific Neuroscience Institute2023-08-30 | Dr. Karen Miller discusses the Brain Wellness & Lifestyle Program available at Pacific Neuroscience Institute in Santa Monica, California. The expert team provides a wide range of specialized classes designed to strategically address your cognitive concerns. Whether you prefer individual or group sessions, we offer flexible options to suit your needs. Our programs are available both virtually and in-person, ensuring accessibility and convenience.
For people with cognitive concerns including mild cognitive impairment, Alzheimer's disease, and other dementias, these classes address: Memory, sleep, nutrition, exercise, & stress.
For more information, please contact: 213-344-2037 | Lifestyle@pacificneuro.org 1301 20th St, Santa Monica, CA 9040445. Hearing Restoration with the Miracle of Cochlear Implants | Courtney Voelker, MD, PhDPacific Neuroscience Institute2023-08-16 | When people notice their vision blurring, they will frequently dash off to the eye doctor. Not so with hearing loss. It often goes ignored and undiagnosed until it becomes unbearable. Dr. Courtney Voelker is trying to change that. She’s a neurotologist, a head and neck surgeon who specializes in diseases of the ear and related structures. She spends much of her time giving the gift of hearing to her patients using cochlear implants. These near-magical devices restore hearing after an intricate two-hour, outpatient surgery. They help newborns get on the path to mainstream development and cognition. Dr. Voelker has watched many toddlers light up when they hear the world for the first time. Cochlear implants help older adults avoid the isolation and cognitive decline that comes with hearing loss. With Bluetooth technology, cochlear implants are becoming almost bionic in their capabilities. They can connect to sound systems in music venues or classrooms. Listen to this episode to find out how Dr. Voelker is opening up access to the world of sound for all.Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy: A New Dawn for Mental Health | Daniel Kelly, MDPacific Neuroscience Institute2023-08-09 | Adapted from lecture at Claremont McKenna College Thu, September 16, 2021
Alum, Daniel Kelly, M.D. '82, a neurosurgeon and neuroscientist, discusses the history, current state and future opportunities of psychedelic-assisted therapies for a wide spectrum of mental health, and other neuroscience disorders including depression, anxiety, addiction, and PTSD. He provides an overview of ongoing clinical trials with psilocybin, MDMA and other psychedelics and describes current clinical trials at Pacific Treatment & Research in Psychedelics (TRIP) Center at Pacific Neuroscience Institute in Santa Monica, CA.
Neuro-oncology, PNI-Santa Monica | 310-829-8265Radiation Series: 02 Radiation Therapy vs. Other Treatments | with Akanksha Sharma, MDPacific Neuroscience Institute2023-08-08 | Neuro-oncologist and palliative care specialist, Dr. Akansksha Sharma, talks about radiation treatment for brain tumors.
Neuro-oncology, PNI-Santa Monica | 310-829-8265Radiation Series: 03 The Effects of Radiation Therapy | with Akanksha Sharma, MDPacific Neuroscience Institute2023-08-08 | Neuro-oncologist and palliative care specialist, Dr. Akansksha Sharma, talks about radiation treatment for brain tumors.
Neuro-oncology, PNI-Santa Monica | 310-829-8265Brain Tumor Clinical Trials at Pacific Neuroscience InstitutePacific Neuroscience Institute2023-07-24 | Santosh Kesari, MD, PhD, and Emma Chacon talk about the extensive brain tumor clinical trial program at Pacific Neuroscience Institute. Providing innovative and outside-the-box options for challenging brain tumors, our team of neuro-oncologists offer options including individualized protocols.
Or call: 310-829-826544. Preventing Stroke and Getting the Best Treatment if One Occurs | Dr. Sandra NarayananPacific Neuroscience Institute2023-07-21 | Every 40 seconds, someone in the U.S. has a stroke. That adds up to about 800,000 Americans a year. Yet, not everyone knows what a stroke is, or what the symptoms are. Very simply, a stroke is either a blockage or a rupture in a blood vessel that deprives the brain of blood. Blockages are most common, and the symptoms include difficulty with speaking or walking, paralysis in the face, arms of legs, and headache. Dr. Sandra Narayan is a surgeon who treats strokes. The good news, she says, is that a healthy lifestyle can help most people avoid stroke. Listen to this podcast to find out about those healthy habits, and to learn why it’s best to call 911 when symptoms appear instead of having a friend or family member drive you to the hospital. Hint: Artificial intelligence is getting involved, in a very helpful way.July 4th Firework Noise | with Dr. Courtney Voelker on ABC7Pacific Neuroscience Institute2023-07-05 | Dr. Courtney Voelker talks to ABC7 about protecting your ears from the excessive noise of fireworks during July 4th celebrations. Hearing loss has a direct correlation to developmental delays and cognitive decline.43. Magic Mushrooms: Pushing Frontiers in Mental Health - Guest Podcast | Dr. Kelly, Dr. HeinzerlingPacific Neuroscience Institute2023-06-29 | This episode comes from the Saint John’s Health Center Foundation’s podcast, Your Daily Dose with Kym Douglas. Pacific Neuroscience Institute experts, Dr. Keith Heinzerling and Dr. Daniel Kelly discuss the Treatment & Research in Psychedelics (TRIP) program at PNI. Dr. Heinzerling, an addiction medicine specialist and TRIP director, and Dr. Kelly, director and one of the four founders of PNI describe how psychedelic-assisted therapy with compounds such as psilocybin from “magic mushrooms” in clinical trials can help treat conditions such as alcohol use disorder, anxiety, and depression. Listen to this episode to learn how these doctors envision psychedelic-assisted therapy transforming the current model of mental health care.Pediatric Cochlear Implantation for Bilaterial Hearing Loss | Siennas StoryPacific Neuroscience Institute2023-06-28 | Sienna was born with profound bilateral hearing loss (deafness in both ears). As her family's hearing modality choice is listening and spoken language, they decided to pursue cochlear implant surgery with Neurotology Surgeon Dr. Courtney Voelker when Sienna was just 5 months old. One month later, after activation of her implants with Audiologist Dr. Rebecca Lewis, Sienna is experiencing how to hear for the first time. Getting auditory stimulus to the developing brain as early as possible is the number one factor in better outcomes in babies with profound hearing loss.
Learn more about the PNI Cochlear Implant program: Clinic: 310-477-5558
Natalie Díaz, MD, neuróloga certificada por la junta con capacitación en trastornos del movimiento en el Centro de Trastornos del Movimiento del Pacífico en el Instituto de Neurociencia del Pacífico (PNI) en Torrance, CA, discute los síntomas no motores y neuropsiquiátricos en la enfermedad de Parkinson.
Pacific Movement Disorders Center: pacificneuroscienceinstitute.org/movement-disorders Torrance: 424-212-5361 | Santa Monica: 310-582-7433Brain Tumor Webinar: Managing Your Symptoms With RoninPacific Neuroscience Institute2023-06-05 | Guest speaker Michelle Abramowski, CRNP, AOCNP, ACHPN, Clinical Engagement Lead at Project Ronin, discusses how cancer intelligence software provides oncologists with real-time data to create the best treatment plans.
May is Brain Tumor Awareness Month. We “Go Gray in May” and celebrate our patients, their loved ones, and their important journeys. Our brain tumor patients and their loved ones often report that they feel unseen, overshadowed, and isolated. A “rare” or “uncommon” diagnosis of a brain tumor can be challenging in the extreme, but may not be externally visible in its signs or even in its treatment side effects.
During Go Gray In May, we host a series of educational, informative, and fun events for our community to interact, socialize, express themselves, ask questions, learn about specific topics, and share their own experiences.
For more information on brain tumors and tools for coping and resilience, contact the Pacific Neuroscience Institute today.
PacificNeuro.org | PacificBrainTumor.org 310-829-826542. Treating Brain Tumors - Guest Podcast | Dr. Daniel KellyPacific Neuroscience Institute2023-05-31 | Treating Brain Tumors with Dr. Daniel F. Kelly On "From Cancer A to Z" with Dr. Rosalyn Morrell | Guest Podcast
Brain tumors don't get the same amount of attention as the other types of cancers. But they are still very important to talk about. Dr. Daniel F. Kelly is a neurosurgeon and founder of Pacific Neuroscience Institute.
Listen in to learn about Daniel's non-linear path to becoming a neurosurgeon. You'll also hear how the Pacific Neuroscience Institute uses keyhole surgery to reduce the amount of time patients need to stay in the hospital.PNI TRIP Ketamine Ad TikTok R3Pacific Neuroscience Institute2023-05-26 | Ketamine-assisted therapy at PNI Using ketamine in a psychedelic-assisted approach, we treat people 16 years and older who are treatment-resistant or who wish to effectively tackle deep-rooted, unresolved trauma that has not been adequately addressed by other treatment options.
Ketamine is approved for use at high doses as an anesthetic in the operating room. Although not FDA-approved, lower dose “sub-anesthetic” ketamine injections are used “off-label” to treat depression, pain, and other mental health/substance use disorders.
Our program includes one or a few in-clinic ketamine dosing sessions under clinician supervision integrated with preparatory and integration counseling. By harnessing the potential psychedelic effects of ketamine, we aim to achieve more sustained results with fewer ketamine treatments compared to IV ketamine infusions without accompanying psychotherapy.
PacificNeuro.orgGlioblastoma Clinical Trial with Phase One Foundation | Santosh Kesari, MD, PhDPacific Neuroscience Institute2023-05-25 | PHASE ONE Foundation provided the initial funding for a breakthrough clinical trial for patients with brain cancer. The trial’s principal investigator and author Santosh Kesari, MD, PhD, conducts the study at Pacific Neuroscience Institute, Saint John’s Cancer Institute and Providence Saint John’s Health Center.
Called the Precision Immunotherapy in the Neoadjuvant Setting (PIN) trial, this study provides an alternative immunotherapy option to the current standard of care treatment that patients receive when presenting with a new diagnosis of glioblastoma.
PHASE ONE Foundation: phaseonefoundation.orgRediscovering Music After Hearing Loss | Ronnies Inspiring Patient StoryPacific Neuroscience Institute2023-05-19 | Ronnie overcame severe ear pain and hearing loss with the help of Courtney Voelker, MD, PhD, at Pacific Head and Neck . Follow his journey through two successful surgeries to restore his hearing, including a tympanoplasty and stapes bone reconstruction.
Music By: www.bensound.comMeet Dr. Alexander SolomonPacific Neuroscience Institute2023-05-19 | Alexander M. Solomon, MD, is a neuro-ophthalmologist and strabismus surgeon at Pacific Neuroscience Institute in Santa Monica and Torrance, CA. Dr. Solomon’s personal philosophy is that each patient is an individual and that diagnosis and optimal management of any disease is best carried out in conjunction with patient and family education, and understanding.
His skillset includes visual field analysis and optical coherence tomography interpretation, as well as advanced adult strabismus diagnosis and treatment including thyroid eye disease, cranial nerve palsies, and orbital disease.
PNI-SOUTH BAY 5215 Torrance Blvd #300, Torrance, CA 90503 424-212-5361
PNI-SANTA MONICA 2125 Arizona Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90404 310-829-8701Meet Dr. Jesús O. Barreto Abrams | ASL VersionPacific Neuroscience Institute2023-05-19 | Jesús O. Barreto Abrams, PhD, is a clinical neuropsychologist at the Pacific Brain Health Center, Pacific Neuroscience Institute. He evaluates patients in American Sign Language (ASL), Spanish, or English. He mainly works with adult and older adults with cognitive concerns consulting with physician and other allied health professionals in the diagnosis and treatment of neurocognitive disorders due to neurological conditions (e.g., dementias, strokes, traumatic brain injuries) and other medical illnesses (e.g., COVID-19, cancer). Dr. Barreto Abrams also occasionally holds a pediatric neuropsychological clinic specialized in working with Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing children with neuropsychological concerns. Further, he serves as a neuropsychologist liaison to the cochlear implant (CI) team at the Pacific Neuroscience Institute assisting with candidacy evaluations for children and adults who may have neuropsychological concerns.
pacificneuroscienceinstitute.org/people/jesus-barreto-abrams pacificneuroscienceinstitute.org/brain-health/our-centerConoce al Dr. Jesús Barreto AbramsPacific Neuroscience Institute2023-05-19 | Jesús O. Barreto Abrams, PhD, es neuropsicólogo clínico en Pacific Brain Health Center, Pacific Neuroscience Institute. Evalúa a los pacientes en lenguaje de señas americano (ASL), español o inglés. Trabaja principalmente con adultos y adultos mayores con problemas cognitivos consultando con médicos y otros profesionales de la salud relacionados en el diagnóstico y tratamiento de trastornos neurocognitivos debido a condiciones neurológicas (p. ej., demencias, accidentes cerebrovasculares, lesiones cerebrales traumáticas) y otras enfermedades médicas (p. ej., COVID -19, cáncer).
PNI-South Bay 5215 Torrance Blvd #300 Torrance, CA 90503 424-212-5361Meet Dr. Jesús Barreto AbramsPacific Neuroscience Institute2023-05-19 | Jesús O. Barreto Abrams, PhD, is a clinical neuropsychologist at the Pacific Brain Health Center, Pacific Neuroscience Institute. He evaluates patients in American Sign Language (ASL), Spanish, or English. He mainly works with adult and older adults with cognitive concerns consulting with physician and other allied health professionals in the diagnosis and treatment of neurocognitive disorders due to neurological conditions (e.g., dementias, strokes, traumatic brain injuries) and other medical illnesses (e.g., COVID-19, cancer). Dr. Barreto Abrams also occasionally holds a pediatric neuropsychological clinic specialized in working with Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing children with neuropsychological concerns. Further, he serves as a neuropsychologist liaison to the cochlear implant (CI) team at the Pacific Neuroscience Institute assisting with candidacy evaluations for children and adults who may have neuropsychological concerns.
pacificneuroscienceinstitute.org/people/jesus-barreto-abrams pacificneuroscienceinstitute.org/brain-health/our-centerCare Partner Series: Managing Seizures | Emmaline Mauritson, MPAP, PA-CPacific Neuroscience Institute2023-05-19 | This is part of a series of “How To” videos for our families, specifically focused on care partners. If you are caring for a loved one who has brain tumor, or other neurological disease that may result in seizures, this informative video provides instructions about how to care for them safely at home. This does not substitute for medical advice, so always be in touch with your healthcare professional.
pacificneuroscienceinstitute.org/brain-tumor/our-center/supportive-care-clinicMeet Dr. Sandra NarayananPacific Neuroscience Institute2023-05-19 | Sandra Narayanan, MD, FAHA, FANA, FSVIN, FAAN, is board-certified in neurology and vascular neurology by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and CAST (Committee on Advanced Subspecialty Training)-certified in neuroendovascular surgery. She is a vascular neurologist and neurointerventional surgeon at Pacific Stroke & Neurovascular Center, Pacific Neuroscience Institute. She is director of the neurointerventional program and co-director of the stroke program at Providence Saint Joseph Medical Center in Burbank.
PROVIDENCE SAINT JOSEPH MEDICAL CENTER 501 South Buena Vista St., Burbank, CA 91505 818-847-6049 | Fax: 818-847-4842
PNI-SANTA MONICA PROVIDENCE SAINT JOHN’S HEALTH CENTER 2125 Arizona Ave., Santa Monica, CA 90404 310-829-8319Care Partner Series: Meditation FAQs | Sujata Dube, MAPacific Neuroscience Institute2023-05-18 | This is part of a series of “How To” videos for our families, specifically focused on care partners. The information presented here however is universal and can benefit anyone. There are often many questions about starting a meditation practice. Learn more through this informative video.
pacificneuroscienceinstitute.org/brain-tumor/our-center/supportive-care-clinic41. What’s the Best Way to Help Someone With Brain Cancer? | A Patient Panel DiscussionPacific Neuroscience Institute2023-05-17 | Tatiana lives with a brain tumor that causes pain like the very worst migraine. Van Nessa had a sarcoma in her cheekbone and has had eight surgeries. Ben has an inoperable brainstem glioma that is kept in check with a new drug. Do you have someone in your life who is living with cancer? Tatiana, Van Nessa and Ben have some thoughts on how to help them. For Ben, the best thing was when a friend just left dinner on the porch and didn’t even ring the doorbell. Tatiana likes it when friends check in, if not with her, with her mother, who is “in it with her everyday.” Dr. Akanksha Sharma, a neuro-oncologist at Pacific Neuroscience Institute has helped hundreds of patients who live with brain cancer. She joins me in moderating this discussion on what helps and what doesn’t when someone is facing the toughest diagnoses.Care Partner Series: What is Meditation? | Sujata Dube, MAPacific Neuroscience Institute2023-05-17 | This is part of a series of “How To” videos for our families, specifically focused on care partners. The information presented in "What is Meditation?" however is universal and can benefit anyone.
Melita Petrossian, MD, Director of the Pacific Movement Disorders Center, discusses Parkinson's related disease (PD) related conditions and mimics, including idiopathic Parkinson's disease, Multiple Symptoms Atrophy (MSA), Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP), Corticobasal syndrome (CBS), and other rarer conditions.
Parkinsonian syndromes may overlap and appear similar in the early stages. Learn about the diagnostic criteria for Parkinson’s disease (PD), including the accuracy of a clinical diagnosis, biomarkers, and anticipated diagnostic tests. PNI’s Movement Disorders Center is here for you and your care partners throughout your journey.
Torrance: 424-212-5361 | Santa Monica: 310-582-7433Brain Tumor Webinar: Optimizing Wellness for Brain TumorsPacific Neuroscience Institute2023-05-11 | Guest speaker L.J. Amaral MS, RD, CSO, Clinical Nutrition Coordinator at Cedars Sinai, discusses how to optimize wellness for brain tumors using nutrition and exercise.
May is Brain Tumor Awareness Month. We “Go Gray in May” and celebrate our patients, their loved ones, and their important journeys. Our brain tumor patients and their loved ones often report that they feel unseen, overshadowed, and isolated. A “rare” or “uncommon” diagnosis of a brain tumor can be challenging in the extreme, but may not be externally visible in its signs or even in its treatment side effects.
During Go Gray In May, we host a series of educational, informative, and fun events for our community to interact, socialize, express themselves, ask questions, learn about specific topics, and share their own experiences.
For more information on brain tumors and tools for coping and resilience, contact the Pacific Neuroscience Institute today.
PacificNeuro.org | PacificBrainTumor.org 310-829-826540. Brain Cancer Care Partners | Elaine Lipworth, Ari Nowain and Emmaline MauritsonPacific Neuroscience Institute2023-05-10 | When it comes to cancer, the focus is most often on the patient. But the best treatment happens when their care partners are cared for, too. The first step is knowing what it’s like to be the partner, son, daughter or friend of a cancer sufferer. Elaine Lipworth is a writer who lost her husband Stephen to a brain stem tumor. Ari Nowain, MD, is a gastroenterologist whose father is living with a glioblastoma. Emmaline Mauritson is a physician’s assistant at the Pacific Brain Tumor Center who works with patients and their families in the neuro-oncology clinic and infusion center on their cancer journey. We talked about what’s hard, what’s surprising, and what’s rewarding about being a cancer care partner. Listen to this podcast to learn about one of the toughest roles we’re called upon to play in this life, and what we might learn from it.
pacificneuroscienceinstitute.org/brain-tumor pacificneuroscienceinstitute.org/brain-tumor/our-center/supportive-care-clinic Neuro-oncology: 310-829-8265 Neurosurgery: Santa Monica 310-582-7450 | Torrance 424-212-5361 | Burbank 818-847-6049Acoustic Neuroma: Surgical Approaches & Reconstruction | Drs. Courtney Voelker & Garni BarkhoudarianPacific Neuroscience Institute2023-04-28 | In this installment of the Acoustic Neuroma Association (ANA) Support Group webinar series, Pacific Neuroscience Institute (PNI) experts Courtney Voelker, MD, PhD, and Garni Barkhoudarian, MD, present "Surgical Approaches and Reconstruction for Acoustic Neuroma Patients - What approach is best for you? " Learn how to decide if surgery is needed for acoustic neuroma, surgical approaches and reconstruction for acoustic neuroma patients, and cochlear implant placement to restore hearing.
At PNI, our experts are focused on compassionate, state-of-the-art, multi-specialty care for patients with acoustic neuromas. We are focused on your health and our team encourages shared discussion of treatment strategies. Your treatment team considers all aspects of disease presentation to provide a comprehensive, personalized, management plan.
For more information on acoustic neuromas, contact the Pacific Neuroscience Institute today.
310-582-7450Care Partner Series: Incontinence Management | Mariah Mahotz, BSN, RN, OCNPacific Neuroscience Institute2023-04-28 | This is part of a series of “How To” videos for our families, specifically focused on care partners. Incontinence Management is one of the most requested pieces of information for care partners looking after loved ones who have limited mobility.
This instructional video covers the following • Proper mechanics to log roll • Removing and replacing soiled linens and brief underneath a patient. • Use of a bed pan or urinal when family member is able to relay when they need to use the restroom • Methods of incontinence management • Briefs • Pure-wick • Condom catheter • Safe handling if a family member is taking chemotherapy
pacificneuroscienceinstitute.org/brain-tumor/our-center/supportive-care-clinicBrain Tumor Webinar: Living with Optune (Tumor Treating Fields) for GlioblastomaPacific Neuroscience Institute2023-04-26 | Guest Speaker Janice discusses what is it like to live with Optune (Tumor Treating Fields) for glioblastoma. The webinar was hosted by Akanksha Sharma, MD, Neuro-oncologist at the Pacific Brain Tumor Center at Pacific Neuroscience Institute.
May is Brain Tumor Awareness Month. We “Go Gray in May” and celebrate our patients, their loved ones, and their important journeys. Our brain tumor patients and their loved ones often report that they feel unseen, overshadowed, and isolated. A “rare” or “uncommon” diagnosis of a brain tumor can be challenging in the extreme, but may not be externally visible in its signs or even in its treatment side effects.
During Go Gray In May, we host a series of educational, informative, and fun events for our community to interact, socialize, express themselves, ask questions, learn about specific topics, and share their own experiences.
For more information on brain tumors and tools for coping and resilience, contact the Pacific Neuroscience Institute today.