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Neuroplastic changes in patients with functional seizures following neurobehavioral therapy

Ayushe A. Sharma, Jane B. Allendorfer, Stephen Correia, et al.

NeuroImage: Clinical (2025)

  • Clinical Study, Research Translation

Key Takeaways

  • Neurobehavioral therapy (NBT) led to positive brain changes in people with Functional Seizures (FS).
  • Participants showed reduced frequency of seizures and improved mood and function after therapy.
  • The study highlights the importance of structural brain changes in understanding FS.
  • While effective, NBT’s broader impact on mental health needs more exploration.
  • Further research could shape more targeted therapies for Functional Neurological Disorder (FND).

Overview

This summary explores the impact of neurobehavioral therapy (NBT) on brain changes in individuals with Traumatic Brain Injury-related Functional Seizures (TBI-FS). In particular, it looks at how NBT influences the brain in people experiencing these types of seizures. The research involved a broad group of participants with TBI, some of whom have FS, and examined how their brains changed before and after undergoing NBT.

Discussion

This study included 33 healthy adults and 100 adults with a history of traumatic brain injury (50 with FS and 50 without). They underwent MRI scans and participated in up to 12 sessions of NBT. The researchers measured changes in gray matter volume (GMV) in specific brain areas, as well as the frequency of seizures and levels of depression and anxiety.

  • Participants: 33 healthy adults, 50 TBI-FS, 50 TBI-only.
  • Interventions: 12 NBT sessions for TBI-FS.
  • Outcomes: GMV changes, seizure frequency, depression, anxiety.
  • Findings: TBI-FS participants showed a GMV increase in the left temporal lobe after NBT, with improved psychological and functional outcomes.

NBT was associated with a 1.23% increase in GMV in parts of the brain related to emotion and control, a 35.78% reduction in seizures, and lower depression and anxiety symptoms. The brain changes in areas associated with language and cognitive control highlight NBT’s potential for fostering brain resilience in FND despite its current limitations in explaining changes in mental health.

Next Steps

If you have FND, here are some steps you can consider:

  • Ask your healthcare provider if NBT might be suitable for you.
  • Share these findings with your provider to explore therapy options together.
  • Track your symptoms over time to assess treatment effectiveness.
  • Connect with support groups for shared experiences and advice.
  • While optimistic, remember that ongoing research will provide deeper insights and options.

Reference

Ayushe A. Sharma, et al. Neuroplastic changes in patients with functional seizures following neurobehavioral therapy. NeuroImage: Clinical. 2025;46:103774. doi:10.1016/j.nicl.2025.103774  

 https://doi.org/10.1016/j.nicl.2025.103774

This summary is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical, financial, or legal advice. It is not intended to replace professional consultation or treatment. Always consult qualified healthcare providers regarding your specific circumstances, symptoms, or questions.

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