Pathways to Learning Center

Simply stated “Neuronal Pathways” are tracks or avenues much like trains or cars use to get from one place to another. Stated in more modern terms, when we speak to someone on the telephone, fiber optic pathways are used to connect one person to another. The brain works in much the same way. However, sometimes the pathway is weak or not sending signals strong enough. This results in areas of the brain not communicating with each other even though the pathway is intact.

Neuronal Plasticity

Neuronal plasticity is the ability of a nerve to change and grow based upon proper stimulation.

Research has shown through advanced imaging using SPECT, functional MRI, and PET scans that most of the problems with children and adults with learning and attention challenges are due to decreased electrical activity in the brain due to weakened neurons.

If we think of a neuron like a tree, we can have a tree with many branches (dendrites) and roots. This neuron will be able to receive and transmit information most efficiently (strong neuron).

 

On the other hand we can have a tree with a few branches and roots.

This neuron will not be able to receive and transmit information very efficiently (weak neuron).

The good news is that with proper stimulation, weak neurons can become strong neurons.

This is the basis of Hemispheric Integration Therapy.

You may have noticed or perhaps your child has been diagnosed with specific physical and cognitive difficulties with;

• initiating and sustaining attention

• organizing, planning and prioritizing

• auditory processing

• critical thinking skills

• balance and coordination

• inability to cross the midline

• fine and gross motor control

• following directions

• visual and spatial environments

These are challenges to both student and parent alike. Challenges that can be successfully met and overcome!

                                                       The Science of Hemispheric integration Therapy (HIT):

We have built upon and expanded current research to actually strengthen the brains foundation. Our approach is known as Hemispheric Integration Therapy (HIT) and is based upon current well documented brain research.

(“HIT”) is a unique program that incorporates a multi-modal approach to hemispheric imbalances associated with learning disabilities.

In order for a child to have a complete or holistic view of the world, both the right and left halves of the brain must be communicating efficiently.

Most learning and attention challenges involve one hemisphere (half) of the brain being out of balance with the other half. This is due to an under activation of one hemisphere as compared to the other. As a result both halves of the brain are out of “synch” or not communicating properly.

The majority of developmental and learning disabilities are the result of a problem with the development of specific areas of the brain which results in a child having difficulty processing information. This is not brain damage as MRI’s and other imaging tools are usually normal.

                                                       There is merely a decrease in activity or functioning of certain brain regions resulting in those brain regions being functionally disconnected with other areas of the brain.

Functional Disconnection

The left and right hemispheres of the brain become functionally disconnected when the development/function of one hemisphere is out of balance with the other (“Functional Disconnection Syndrome”).

A right brain deficit tends to result in specific disorders such as:

• Attention deficit disorders

• Obsessive compulsive disorders

• Tourette syndrome

• Non verbal learning disabilities

• PDD, Asperger Syndrome, Autism

• Lack of social comprehension

• Visuo-spatial difficulties (difficulty processing visual information, eye movement difficulties, problems with depth perception and difficulty finding ones way on a map or in unfamiliar territory)

Left brain deficits can also result in a wide variety of disorders and may include:

• Learning disabilities

• Dyslexia

• Low IQ

• Speech and language problems

• Depression

• Lack of motivation

Dr. Mark Goldenberg has extensively researched the use of brain based approaches to learning challenges and attention deficits with a particular focus on the above imbalances.

Through HIT optimal brain function is achieved allowing the two halves of the brain (hemispheres) to communicate and work together.

Under aroused hemispheres are strengthened and the brain’s timing, planning and sequencing abilities are improved.

Cerebellum

Research reveals that a part of the brain known as the cerebellum is responsible for fine tuning the thinking process. (Schmahmann, Leiner, Berquin). Research has also revealed that one of the root causes of learning or attention challenges have to do with a weakness or underdevelopment of the cerebellum (Levinson, Castellanos) which is why 90% of children with learning or attention challenges have signs known as “soft motor signs” such as challenges with; balance, coordination, eye tracking, fine or gross motor control. By performing specific exercises to stimulate the cerebellum, learning and attention are improved.

Timing, Planning and Sequencing

Timing, Planning, and sequencing abilities are essential to academic achievement. Most clients with learning difficulties have deficits with these critical elements of brain function. (Greenspan).

With the use of the Interactive Metronome (IM), a research based computer protocol, the brain’s planning, sequencing, and timing are significantly improved.

The (IM) is a computer based therapy that provides a systematic way to improve timing, focus and concentration by stimulating both sides of the brain through the use of a feedback mechanism utilizing a metronome beat.

The IM objectively measures an individual’s timing, rhythm, coordination and capacity to plan actions. Based upon this measurement, deficiencies and challenges in planning actions such as those commonly found in people with ADHD, poor coordination, and other learning and processing problems can be identified.

Our Treatment Program

HIT uses hemisphere specific stimulations such as motor, sensory, nutritional and cognitive modalities directed toward the under activated hemisphere of the brain. This allows improved communication between hemispheres of the brain (binding).

Our treatment program is individually designed to best address the client’s needs and include:

• Hemisphere specific exercise

• Interactive Metronome

• Nutritional Guidelines

• Visual Stimulation

• Auditory Stimulation

• Balance, coordination, and eye tracking exercises

• Activities to improve memory and thinking

Results

• Improved attention and focus

• Increases in Math and Reading Fluency

• Increased processing speeds

• Improved coordination and balance

• Improved planning and sequencing ability

• Improved social capacities

• Improved analytical thinking

Building the Pathways for Learning:

Clients of all ages benefit from ages six through adulthood

The program is a one time protocol, 12 weeks in duration comprising 36 sessions.

The sessions are individualized in relation to the client’s specific age and needs. No client can begin the protocol with out a thorough evaluation and secondary analysis of any existing diagnoses. Sessions are scheduled on an hourly basis three times per week. Daily assessments are given to monitor each students progress. At the conclusion of the program post testing of all initial tests are preformed.

About the Center:

Dr. Goldenberg, a Board Certified Chiropractic Neurologist, lecturer and brain researcher, has written on the topics of brain based approaches to learning challenges and attention deficits. He has been a key note speaker for both professional, educational and parent organizations.

Because each situation is important and unique we feel it very important that the parent have a complete understanding of what is possible to help each child. In doing so the parent becomes a vital partner in the process. Towards this end, Dr. Goldenberg invites each parent to attend a free parent workshop which explains, from a neuro-physiological standpoint, what is happening in the brains of our kids, why this is happening and how our program can improve your child on a premanent basis without medication.