National Learning Center Addresses Root Cause through Brain-Based, Not Drug-Based Program
Jersey City, N.J. – According to recent research conducted by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the number of ADHD diagnoses has increased by nearly 25 percent in the last decade. While medication is the most well-known approach to minimizing symptoms tied to neurobehavioral challenges, many parents are taking alternative measures. Brain Balance Achievement Centers has experienced much success getting kids with neurobehavioral issues to reach their physical, social/behavioral and academic potential by implementing a drug-free program.
Brain Balance Achievement Centers was founded in 2006 by Dr. Robert Melillo, a researcher, professor, lecturer and bestselling author, and his nephew Bill Fowler. The center works with children between the ages of 4 and 17, some of which have been diagnosed with neurobehavioral issues, such as ADHD, Dyslexia, Processing Disorders, Asperger’s, and some with no diagnosis. Through a unique multi-modal program consisting of sensory-motor exercises, academic work and nutritional guidance, children are able to achieve success academically, socially and behaviorally.
“Our program is supported by the theory of neuroplasticity, that is that the brain can be changed and thus a child’s problems are not permanent,” Dr. Melillo said. “We feel it is important for parents to understand that medication is not a cure. It merely works as a short-term fix to treat the symptoms. The Brain Balance Program is designed to address the root cause of these neurobehavioral issues, not just the symptoms.”
Brain Balance uses an integrated approach consisting of sensory motor, cognitive and nutritional guidance. The center conducts a comprehensive initial assessment designed to determine if the child has a left or right brain imbalance. A customized program is then developed based on the results. The following are examples of various exercises that stimulate the brain:
- Sensory Motor Exercises: Stimulating Activities include posture, strength, visual and auditory stimulation, timing and rhythm.
- Coordination and balance: Stimulating Activities include balance, spatial orientation and mirroring.
- Academic Exercises: Stimulating Activities include word reading, math calculations, listening comprehension, spelling, written and oral expression.
“The brain is like any other muscle in the body. You work to strengthen the muscles that need assistance,” Dr. Melillo added. “By conducting various exercises geared towards strengthening the weaker hemisphere of the brain, the root of neurobehavioral imbalances can be treated.”
As a result of the program, 60 percent of children demonstrate a minimum of a two-grade level increase in various academic measures. An additional approximately 35 percent of the children studied demonstrate a four-grade level increase or better on average based on academic achievement testing after 12 weeks.
For more information or to locate the nearest center to you, visit www.brainbalancecenters.com.
About Brain Balance Achievement Centers
Since 2006, Brain Balance Achievement Centers has helped thousands of children between the ages of 4 and 17 reach their academic, social and behavioral potential through a drug-free program. The individualized and customized program utilizes sensory-motor exercises, academic work and nutritional guidance to address the root cause of many neurobehavioral issues. For more information, visit www.brainbalancecenters.com.
