Experiencing seizures can be frightening, especially when the cause is unclear. For some individuals, seizure-like episodes are not caused by epilepsy but by a condition known as Psychogenic Non Epileptic Seizures, or PNES. Although the symptoms can closely resemble epileptic seizures, the underlying cause is different, which means the approach to treatment is different as well.

According to Medscape, between 20 and 30 percent of patients referred to epilepsy centers for evaluation are ultimately diagnosed with PNES rather than epilepsy. Understanding the condition is an important step toward finding the right treatment and improving quality of life.

If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with PNES, neurofeedback may offer a natural, non-invasive approach that can help support emotional regulation and reduce the frequency of symptoms.

What Are Psychogenic Non Epileptic Seizures?

Psychogenic Non Epileptic Seizures are episodes that resemble epileptic seizures but are not caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain. Instead, they are believed to be associated with psychological stress, emotional distress, or trauma.

During an episode, a person may experience:

  • Temporary loss of awareness
  • Shaking or convulsions
  • Staring spells
  • Unresponsiveness
  • Sudden changes in movement or behavior

Because the symptoms can closely resemble epilepsy, a thorough medical evaluation is essential to determine the correct diagnosis. Proper diagnosis helps ensure individuals receive treatment that addresses the underlying cause of their symptoms.

How PNES Differs From Epileptic Seizures

Although the physical symptoms may appear similar, epileptic seizures and PNES develop for very different reasons.

Epileptic seizures occur because of abnormal electrical activity within the brain that results from a neurological condition.

PNES, on the other hand, is not caused by these electrical changes. Researchers believe it is more closely connected to the brain and body’s response to emotional distress or traumatic experiences. Because the causes differ, treatment strategies also differ.

Receiving the correct diagnosis is one of the most important steps in developing an effective care plan.

What May Contribute to PNES?

Researchers continue to study why some individuals develop PNES while others do not. Although there is no single known cause, many cases are associated with significant emotional stress or trauma.

Experiences that may contribute include:

  • Loss of a loved one
  • Relationship changes
  • Emotional or physical abuse
  • Witnessing violence
  • Serious illness
  • Accidents
  • Ongoing stress
  • Post Traumatic Stress Disorder

For some individuals, emotional distress may become so overwhelming that it begins to affect the body physically. PNES is considered one way the body may express emotional pain that has not yet been fully processed.

Every person’s experience is unique, which is why personalized evaluation and treatment are so important.

How Neurofeedback May Support Recovery

Neurofeedback is a form of biofeedback that helps train the brain to develop healthier patterns of activity. Using real-time information about brain function, neurofeedback encourages the brain to improve its own self-regulation through a learning process known as operant conditioning.

During treatment, many providers begin with a quantitative EEG, often called brain mapping, to identify patterns that may be contributing to symptoms. This information helps create an individualized training program designed for each patient’s specific needs.

During a typical neurofeedback session, patients watch visual feedback while their brains respond naturally to changing brain activity. Over time, the brain practices healthier patterns that may improve emotional regulation and resilience.

Neurofeedback is:

  • Drug free
  • Non invasive
  • Comfortable and painless
  • Personalized to each individual

Research has shown encouraging results for individuals with PNES. One published study found that neurofeedback combined with psychotherapy was associated with meaningful improvements in individuals experiencing psychogenic seizures. While results vary from person to person and additional research continues, these findings suggest neurofeedback may be a valuable part of a comprehensive treatment plan.

Neurofeedback May Help Support Other Conditions

Because emotional regulation affects many aspects of brain function, neurofeedback is also used to support individuals experiencing a variety of neurological and emotional challenges, including:

Every treatment plan is tailored to the individual’s symptoms, history, and goals.

Learn More About Neurofeedback

Living with Psychogenic Non Epileptic Seizures can be challenging, but there are treatment options that may help you regain confidence and improve your quality of life. If you are looking for a natural, non-invasive approach that supports emotional healing and healthy brain function, neurofeedback may be worth exploring.

Dr. Ed Carlton and the team at Carlton Neurofeedback Center provide personalized neurofeedback care for individuals experiencing PNES and other neurological conditions. We invite you to schedule a free in-office evaluation to learn whether neurofeedback may be right for you.

If regular office visits are not convenient, ask us about our home neurofeedback rental options that allow qualifying patients to continue treatment from the comfort of home. During your consultation, our team can also discuss available treatment plans and pricing so you can make an informed decision about your care.

You can also learn more about neurofeedback by downloading our free guide, Neurofeedback eBook, which explains how this innovative therapy works and what you can expect during treatment.

To get started, schedule your Free In-Office Evaluation, call us at 703-335-9149, or Contact Us today. We look forward to helping you explore a personalized path toward better brain health.

References

Medscape. Psychogenic Nonepileptic Seizures Overview. https://www.medscape.com/

National Library of Medicine. Neurofeedback and Psychogenic Non Epileptic Seizures Research. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/