FND is understood as a disorder of brain functioning rather than brain structure. Research suggests that areas of the brain involved in emotion, attention, and threat processing may interfere with networks responsible for movement, sensation, and other neurological functions, causing symptoms that are real but not caused by neurological disease.

functional neurological disorder

what is FND

FND may be diagnosed by a neurologist or psychologist following a thorough evaluation. Because symptoms can closely resemble those caused by neurological disease, appropriate medical causes should first be evaluated and ruled out. Many individuals with FND undergo extensive medical evaluation before receiving an explanation for their symptoms.

how is someone diagnosed with FND

Effective treatment for FND is often multidisciplinary, with collaboration among medical and mental health providers. Therapy is a core component of treatment and may focus on emotion regulation, identifying symptom triggers, reducing avoidance, addressing trauma when relevant, and involving family or other supportive individuals when appropriate.

how is FND treated

FND shows up in a variety of ways, including:

how does FND manifest

  • Psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES)
  • Tremors
  • Weakness
  • Speech changes
  • Tics

Dr. Esses' approach to FND treatment includes collaboration with you and your other treating providers.  It's often also helpful to include loved ones in certain parts of treatment to develop shared understandings of and plans for responding to symptoms. 

collaboration

what to expect in treatment

  • Understanding the diagnosis
  • Identifying triggers and vulnerability factors
  • Reducing symptom-focused fear and avoidance
  • Improving emotion regulation and coping
  • Targeting patterns that may unintentionally reinforce symptoms

treatment focus

Dr. Esses has received specialized training in the treatment of Functional Neurological Disorder (FND). Her approach is informed by CBT-based interventions commonly used in FND treatment and focuses on helping individuals understand symptom patterns, strengthen coping skills, and improve quality of life.

specialized care

are fnd symptoms real?

Yes. Symptoms associated with Functional Neurological Disorder are real, involuntary, and can significantly affect daily functioning. FND is a recognized condition involving disruptions in how the brain functions rather than structural damage to the nervous system.

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What symptoms can occur in Functional Neurological Disorder?

FND can present in many different ways. Common symptoms include non-epileptic seizures (PNES), tremors, tics, weakness, gait difficulties, numbness, sensory changes, vision problems, speech difficulties, and blindness.

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Is FND the same as Conversion Disorder?

Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) and Conversion Disorder generally refer to the same condition. "Conversion Disorder" is the diagnostic term that has historically been used in mental health settings, while "Functional Neurological Disorder" is the term more commonly used today by neurologists and other medical and mental health professionals.
The shift in terminology reflects a growing understanding that FND is a disorder of brain functioning rather than a condition that is simply caused by psychological distress.

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Can therapy help with Functional Neurological Disorder?

Research supports the use of CBT-based interventions as part of treatment for FND. Therapy may help individuals identify symptom triggers, improve emotion regulation, reduce avoidance, develop coping skills, and increase engagement in meaningful activities.

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Do I need a neurologist before starting therapy?

Because FND symptoms can resemble those caused by neurological disease, an appropriate medical evaluation is recommended before diagnosis. Treatment is often most effective when mental health providers work collaboratively with neurologists and other members of the treatment team.

next steps

Initial consultation call

Complimentary consultation calls are for those who are considering therapy and would like to explore next steps. This is a brief call for us to get a sense of fit and for me to answer any questions you may have.

If it feels like a potential fit, you can fill out the inquiry form and I’ll follow up shortly to coordinate a time to connect.

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