Concussion Treatment in West Los Angeles: Drug-Free Brain Injury Recovery
Expert post-concussion syndrome treatment using advanced LENS neurofeedback in Mar Vista, serving Santa Monica, Culver City, Venice, and throughout West LA
Expert Concussion Treatment in West Los Angeles
If you’re struggling with persistent symptoms after a concussion—whether from sports, a car accident, or a fall—MYNeuroBalance offers specialized, drug-free treatment that addresses the root neurological dysfunction causing your symptoms. Since 2012, we’ve helped hundreds of Los Angeles area clients recover from post-concussion syndrome using advanced LENS (Low Energy Neurofeedback System) technology.
Located in Mar Vista, our clinic is easily accessible from Santa Monica (10 minutes), Culver City (8 minutes), Venice (12 minutes), Marina del Rey, Westwood, Brentwood, and throughout West Los Angeles. We’re conveniently situated just off the 405 freeway near Centinela and Washington Boulevard, with free parking available.
Why Traditional Concussion Treatment Often Falls Short
Most concussion protocols focus on symptom management—rest, pain medication, gradual return to activity. While appropriate for acute recovery, these approaches don’t address the underlying brain dysregulation that causes persistent post-concussion syndrome. LENS neurofeedback helps your brain identify and correct the dysfunctional patterns that standard treatments leave behind, typically producing noticeable improvements within 8-12 sessions.
“I sustained a concussion while surfing in El Segundo and dealt with debilitating headaches, brain fog, and light sensitivity for seven months,” says Marcus T., a 28-year-old software developer from Playa del Rey. “My neurologist said I just needed more time, but I wasn’t improving. After 10 LENS sessions at MYNeuroBalance, my headaches decreased by 80%, my mental clarity returned, and I could finally look at computer screens without pain. By session 15, I was back to surfing.”
What Makes MYNeuroBalance the Leading Choice for Concussion Treatment in West LA
1. LENS Technology Specifically Effective for Brain Injury
Unlike traditional neurofeedback that requires active concentration (which many concussion patients find exhausting or impossible), LENS neurofeedback is completely passive. You simply sit comfortably while tiny sensors read your brain’s electrical activity and deliver imperceptible feedback signals that help your brain self-correct.
This is crucial for concussion recovery because:
- No mental effort required: Sessions don’t tax your already-stressed brain
- Addresses dysregulation directly: LENS helps restore normal brainwave patterns disrupted by injury
- Faster results: Most clients see meaningful improvement in 8-15 sessions versus 40+ with traditional methods
- Minimal side effects: Gentle approach ideal for sensitive post-injury brains
- Brief sessions: Just 15-20 minutes, easy to tolerate even with fatigue or headaches
Research on LENS for traumatic brain injury shows significant improvements in cognitive function, headache frequency, emotional regulation, and overall quality of life. Our clinical experience over 12+ years confirms these findings—we consistently see clients recover function that standard protocols couldn’t restore.
2. Specialized Experience with Traumatic Brain Injury
Jon S. Haupers, our founder and lead LENS specialist, has focused extensively on brain injury recovery throughout his 12+ years of practice. With over 300 concussion and TBI cases treated, he understands the unique challenges of post-concussion syndrome—the unpredictable symptoms, the frustrating plateau in recovery, the emotional toll of lingering dysfunction.
“Concussion recovery isn’t linear, and no two brain injuries are identical. What makes LENS so effective is that we’re not applying a one-size-fits-all protocol. We map each client’s specific patterns of dysregulation and target exactly where their brain needs help. I’ve seen clients who plateaued months ago suddenly resume normal function once we address their unique pattern.”
— Jon S. Haupers, LENS Neurofeedback Specialist
Jon’s experience means he can identify subtle indicators that predict treatment response, adjust protocols when progress stalls, and combine LENS with complementary strategies (sleep optimization, visual exercises, vestibular rehabilitation recommendations) for comprehensive recovery.
3. Comprehensive Brain Mapping Reveals Hidden Dysfunction
Many concussion patients are told their MRI or CT scan is “normal,” yet they clearly aren’t functioning normally. That’s because standard imaging shows structural damage, not functional problems. Quantitative EEG (qEEG) brain mapping reveals the electrical dysregulation that persists after structural healing is complete.
Our detailed 19-channel brain mapping typically shows:
- Hyperarousal patterns in areas causing headaches and hypersensitivity
- Slowed processing contributing to brain fog and cognitive fatigue
- Connectivity disruptions between brain regions affecting coordination and executive function
- Limbic system dysregulation underlying mood changes and emotional volatility
- Sleep architecture problems preventing restorative recovery
“Seeing my brain map after months of being told ‘everything looks fine’ was incredibly validating,” shares Rebecca K., a 34-year-old teacher from Westwood who suffered a concussion in a car accident on the 405. “Jon showed me exactly where my brain was stuck in abnormal patterns. Finally, someone could see what I was experiencing and had a plan to fix it.”
4. Truly Individualized Treatment Protocols
Cookie-cutter approaches rarely work well for brain injury recovery. Your brain mapping results guide a customized LENS protocol that:
- Targets your specific areas of dysregulation
- Adjusts intensity based on your brain’s sensitivity (often heightened after injury)
- Evolves as your brain heals and patterns shift
- Addresses both primary symptoms (headaches, cognitive issues) and secondary effects (sleep problems, mood changes)
- Incorporates re-mapping every 8-10 sessions to objectively track progress
Common Post-Concussion Symptoms We Successfully Treat
Our West Los Angeles clients typically seek help for: persistent headaches or migraines, cognitive difficulties (brain fog, memory problems, slow processing), light and sound sensitivity, sleep disturbances, mood changes (irritability, anxiety, depression), dizziness or balance issues, fatigue and low energy, difficulty concentrating or multitasking, and emotional dysregulation.
Understanding Post-Concussion Syndrome: When Recovery Stalls
Most concussions resolve within 7-10 days with appropriate rest and gradual return to activity. However, 10-20% of concussion patients develop post-concussion syndrome (PCS)—persistent symptoms lasting months or even years after the initial injury. If you’re still experiencing symptoms 4+ weeks after your concussion, you likely have PCS.
Why Does Post-Concussion Syndrome Develop?
A concussion disrupts your brain’s normal electrical activity and chemical balance. In most cases, the brain self-corrects within weeks. But sometimes the brain gets “stuck” in dysfunctional patterns—continuing to fire abnormally even after the initial injury has healed structurally. Think of it like a computer that’s crashed and keeps trying to boot from corrupted files.
These persistent dysregulation patterns cause the ongoing symptoms of PCS. Your brain isn’t damaged anymore, but it’s operating inefficiently, producing symptoms like:
Physical Symptoms
Headaches, dizziness, light/sound sensitivity, vision problems, balance issues, nausea, fatigue
Cognitive Symptoms
Brain fog, memory problems, slow processing, difficulty concentrating, confusion, mental fatigue
Emotional Symptoms
Irritability, anxiety, depression, mood swings, emotional dysregulation, loss of interest
Sleep Symptoms
Insomnia, non-restorative sleep, difficulty falling asleep, daytime drowsiness, altered sleep cycles
The LENS Neurofeedback Solution
LENS doesn’t just manage symptoms—it helps your brain identify and correct the dysfunctional patterns causing them. By providing gentle feedback about its own activity, LENS enables your brain to “reboot” into healthier patterns. Most clients experience progressive improvement: headaches become less frequent and severe, cognitive clarity gradually returns, energy levels stabilize, and emotional regulation improves.
“I’d tried everything—medications, physical therapy, vision therapy, vestibular rehab,” says David L., a 42-year-old attorney from Santa Monica who sustained a concussion while cycling. “All helped a little, but I was still functioning at maybe 60%. LENS was the missing piece. It addressed the underlying brain dysregulation the other therapies couldn’t touch. Within 12 sessions, I was finally back to feeling like myself.”
Our Concussion Treatment Process
Step 1: Complimentary Phone Consultation (20-30 minutes)
We begin with a detailed phone conversation about your injury, symptoms, previous treatments, and recovery goals. This helps us determine whether LENS neurofeedback is appropriate for your specific situation and answer your initial questions. We’ll explain how the technology works for brain injury and discuss realistic expectations based on your symptom profile.
If you’re working with other providers (neurologist, physical therapist, concussion specialist), we’re happy to coordinate care. LENS often works synergistically with other concussion therapies.
Step 2: Comprehensive Brain Mapping Session (75-90 minutes)
Your first in-office visit includes thorough brain mapping to identify exactly where and how your brain is dysregulated:
- Symptom Assessment: We document your current symptoms, severity, triggers, and how they impact your daily life. This creates our baseline for tracking improvement.
- qEEG Brain Mapping: Using a comfortable cap with 19 sensors, we record your brain’s electrical activity for about 10 minutes. This is completely painless—the sensors only read activity, nothing is being sent into your brain during mapping.
- Analysis & Review: Your brain map is analyzed against normative databases and examined for patterns typical of post-concussion syndrome. We then review your results together, showing you the specific areas of dysregulation contributing to your symptoms.
- Treatment Planning: Based on your brain map and symptoms, Jon creates a personalized LENS protocol targeting your specific areas of concern.
“The brain mapping session was fascinating,” recalls Jennifer M., a 31-year-old graphic designer from Culver City. “I could see the areas of overactivation causing my migraines and the slowed processing contributing to my brain fog. Jon explained everything clearly and outlined how LENS would address each problem. For the first time since my injury, I felt hopeful.”
Step 3: LENS Treatment Sessions (15-20 minutes each)
Treatment sessions are remarkably brief and require zero effort on your part:
- Frequency: Typically 1-2 times per week initially, spacing out as you improve
- Duration: Just 15-20 minutes per session
- Your role: Simply sit or recline comfortably—no active participation needed
- What you’ll feel: Most clients feel nothing during the session; some notice subtle relaxation
- After the session: You can immediately drive, work, or resume normal activities
- Between sessions: Many clients notice improvements emerging in the 24-48 hours after treatment
During each session, sensors are placed at specific sites identified during your brain mapping. The LENS system reads your brain’s dominant frequency and sends back an imperceptible signal offset by a few hertz. This tiny disruption prompts your brain to shift out of stuck patterns and reorganize into healthier activity.
Step 4: Progress Tracking & Protocol Adjustment
We monitor your recovery through multiple methods:
- Session-by-session tracking: Brief symptom check-ins before each treatment
- Clinical observation: Jon notes changes in your presentation, energy, and functioning
- Follow-up brain mapping: We remap every 8-10 sessions to objectively measure neurological changes
- Protocol refinement: Your treatment plan evolves based on your response patterns and updated brain maps
Most concussion clients notice initial improvements within 5-8 sessions—often improved sleep or reduced headache frequency. More significant cognitive and functional gains typically emerge by sessions 10-15. Complete protocols usually range from 15-25 sessions depending on injury severity and symptom complexity.
Location, Parking & Accessibility
Our West Los Angeles Clinic
MYNeuroBalance is conveniently located in Mar Vista at:
4029 Alla Road
Los Angeles, CA 90066
Easy Access from Throughout West LA:
- Santa Monica: 10 minutes via Centinela Ave
- Culver City: 8 minutes via Washington Blvd
- Venice: 12 minutes via Venice Blvd
- Marina del Rey: 15 minutes via Lincoln Blvd
- Westwood: 12 minutes via Sepulveda Blvd
- Brentwood: 15 minutes via San Vicente Blvd
- Playa del Rey: 12 minutes via Culver Blvd
- Playa Vista: 10 minutes via Centinela Ave
Parking & Accessibility
- Free street parking on Alla Road
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Ground-floor office (no stairs)
- Quiet, calm environment ideal for post-concussion sensitivity
- Dim lighting options available for light-sensitive clients
Scheduling & Availability
Office Hours: Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Appointment Times: Morning, afternoon, and early evening sessions available
Booking: Call (424) 625-5445 or email [email protected]
We understand post-concussion fatigue and cognitive challenges can make scheduling difficult. We’re happy to work with you to find appointment times when you’re typically at your best energy-wise.
Investment & Insurance
Initial Brain Mapping: $250 (includes comprehensive qEEG analysis and detailed review session)
LENS Treatment Sessions: Package rates available; individual session pricing discussed during consultation
Insurance: While we don’t bill insurance directly, we provide detailed superbills for possible reimbursement through out-of-network benefits. Many clients have successfully received partial reimbursement, particularly when LENS is recommended by their neurologist or physician.
HSA/FSA: Neurofeedback for post-concussion syndrome typically qualifies for HSA and FSA payment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Concussion Treatment
How long after my concussion can I start LENS treatment?
We typically recommend waiting until you’re at least 2-3 weeks post-injury and have been medically cleared by your physician. In the acute phase (first 1-2 weeks), your brain needs rest to allow initial healing. However, if you’re 4+ weeks out and symptoms persist, LENS can help address the lingering dysregulation.
There’s no upper time limit—we’ve successfully treated clients months or even years after their injury. The brain retains its ability to reorganize and heal, even when symptoms have persisted for extended periods.
Is LENS safe for brain injury patients?
Yes, LENS is exceptionally safe and particularly well-suited for post-concussion brains. The energy levels used are far below what you’re exposed to from a cell phone—about 1/1000th the power. Because LENS is passive (requiring no mental effort), it doesn’t stress an already-compromised brain the way active therapies might.
We do adjust protocols carefully for concussion patients, often starting with very gentle treatment and monitoring response closely. Some clients experience temporary adjustment effects (mild fatigue or temporary symptom fluctuation) as their brain reorganizes, but these typically resolve within 24-48 hours. Jon modifies your protocol if needed to ensure treatment remains comfortable.
How many sessions will I need?
Most post-concussion clients see meaningful improvement within 8-15 sessions and complete their protocol in 15-25 sessions total. However, this varies based on several factors:
- Time since injury (recent injuries often respond faster)
- Injury severity and complexity
- Number and severity of symptoms
- History of previous concussions
- Overall health and stress levels
We reassess every 8-10 sessions using follow-up brain mapping to objectively track progress and determine when you’ve reached optimal recovery.
Will LENS interfere with other concussion treatments?
No, LENS typically works synergistically with other therapies. Many of our clients continue physical therapy, vision therapy, vestibular rehabilitation, or other treatments while doing LENS. In fact, addressing brain dysregulation with LENS often enhances the effectiveness of these other modalities.
We encourage communication with your other providers and are happy to coordinate care. Some clients find that LENS allows them to progress further in their other therapies because their brain is functioning more efficiently.
What if I’ve had multiple concussions?
LENS can be especially helpful for people with a history of multiple concussions. Each injury can compound dysregulation patterns, making recovery more complex. Brain mapping reveals the cumulative effects of multiple injuries, and LENS addresses the layered dysfunction systematically.
Many of our clients with multiple concussions have found that LENS helps them reach a higher level of function than they’ve experienced since before their first injury. The treatment helps “reset” patterns that may have been gradually deteriorating over time.
Can children receive LENS for concussions?
Absolutely. LENS is particularly appropriate for children because it’s completely passive and sessions are brief (15-20 minutes). We’ve successfully treated children as young as 6 years old who sustained concussions in sports, playground accidents, or other incidents.
Young brains often respond very well to LENS because of their natural neuroplasticity. Parents consistently report improvements in their child’s symptoms, behavior, academic performance, and overall functioning. We work closely with parents and coordinate with pediatricians or school staff as needed.
How LENS Compares to Other Concussion Treatment Options
LENS Neurofeedback vs. Standard Concussion Protocols
| Factor | LENS Neurofeedback | Standard Protocol (Rest & Gradual Return) |
|---|---|---|
| Approach | Actively corrects brain dysregulation | Passive waiting for natural healing |
| Best For | Persistent symptoms beyond 4 weeks | Acute recovery phase (first 2-3 weeks) |
| Mechanism | Retrains brain electrical patterns | Reduces cognitive/physical stress |
| Timeline | Noticeable improvement in 8-15 sessions | Varies widely; may never fully resolve |
| Success Rate | High for persistent PCS symptoms | 80-90% resolve naturally within weeks |
LENS vs. Medication for Post-Concussion Symptoms
Medications (pain relievers, sleep aids, antidepressants) can help manage specific symptoms but don’t address the underlying brain dysregulation. They may be appropriate for short-term symptom relief, especially for severe headaches or sleep problems.
LENS neurofeedback targets the root cause—helping your brain correct the dysfunctional patterns producing symptoms. As brain function normalizes, symptoms naturally diminish without ongoing medication. Many clients are able to reduce or discontinue medications as LENS treatment progresses, though any medication changes should always be discussed with your prescribing physician.
LENS vs. Cognitive Rehabilitation
Cognitive rehabilitation (memory exercises, attention training, processing speed work) teaches compensatory strategies and can improve specific skills through practice. It’s valuable but can be mentally exhausting for post-concussion patients and requires significant effort.
LENS optimizes the brain’s underlying function without requiring mental effort. Many clients find that once LENS corrects their brain dysregulation, cognitive functions naturally improve without extensive retraining. The two approaches can complement each other—LENS creating the neurological foundation for cognitive therapy to be more effective.
Integrative Approach Often Works Best
We don’t view LENS as replacing other concussion treatments but rather as addressing a critical piece often missing from standard protocols—correcting the neurological dysfunction at its source. The most comprehensive recovery often involves:
- LENS neurofeedback to normalize brain electrical patterns
- Physical therapy for neck issues or balance problems
- Vision therapy if visual processing is affected
- Sleep optimization to support healing
- Gradual return to activity as symptoms allow
- Stress management to avoid retriggering symptoms
Ready to Move Beyond Post-Concussion Syndrome?
If you’re dealing with persistent headaches, brain fog, fatigue, or other symptoms weeks or months after your concussion, you don’t have to accept “you just need more time” as an answer. LENS neurofeedback offers a proven, drug-free solution that addresses the neurological dysfunction keeping you stuck in post-concussion syndrome.
Start Your Recovery Today
Step 1: Schedule a complimentary phone consultation to discuss your injury and symptoms
Step 2: Complete comprehensive brain mapping to identify your specific dysregulation patterns
Step 3: Begin personalized LENS treatment and experience progressive improvement
Most clients notice initial improvements within 8-12 sessions. Don’t spend another month hoping symptoms will spontaneously resolve—take action to help your brain heal.
Proudly serving concussion patients throughout West Los Angeles including Santa Monica, Culver City, Venice, Marina del Rey, Westwood, Brentwood, Playa Vista, Playa del Rey, Pacific Palisades, and surrounding communities.
Visit Our West Los Angeles Concussion Treatment Center
MYNeuroBalance | 4029 Alla Road, Los Angeles, CA 90066 | Get Directions