FND Track (Functional Neurologic Symptom Disorder)
The Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) Track at La Selva is a state-of-the-art treatment program designed for the unique needs of clients with FND. There are three levels of care: 1) Residential, 2) Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) and 3) Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP). Residential clients reside at the La Selva house in Palo Alto while attending the program. PHP and IOP clients attend 5 and 3 days per week, respectively. The length of stay is re-evaluated each week and averages 6-8 weeks.
For Residential Admissions, contact Michelle Ly, LCSW: by phone at 650-323-1401 (fax 650-323-1720) or through email at MLy@momentumforhealth.org
For PHP/day program, contact Katrina Cuison: by phone at (650) 617-8349 or through email at KCuison@momentumforhealth.org (preferred)
Learn more about our FND Track program – Download our brochure
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Functional Neurological Disorder (FND)?
Also known as conversion disorder, FND is characterized by neurologic symptoms incompatible with an established neurologic or medical illness. Symptoms may include psychogenic non-epileptic seizures, abnormal movements, paralysis and speech changes. The diagnosis of FND is typically made by a neurologist by way of clinical exam, neuroimaging and/or neurophysiological testing.
What services are available?
Our FND-Aware Track is designed to empower participants with practical skills to build mastery over their symptoms. The track centers on understanding the neurobiology of FND, identifying personal triggers, and strengthening interpersonal effectiveness. With a skills-based, recovery-oriented approach, the track also guides participants through concrete steps toward reducing disability and reclaiming daily functioning.
La Selva’s specially trained multidisciplinary team collaborates with each client to design a tailored treatment plan. This program follows a mental health model and is made up of general outpatient groups that have also been found to be effective in the treatment of FND. The program relies on evidence-based treatment, including cognitive and dialectical behavior therapy (CBT and DBT). Didactic and interactive-style groups address topics such as wellness recovery, anger management, codependency, effective communication, family dynamics and more
What is the turnaround time for admission?
For residential, the turnaround time typically depends on how quickly the clinical paperwork is complete (including cleared TB and physician’s report) and the census at the time of packet receipt. For PHP/IOP, we try to accommodate new clients within 3-5 days.
Do clients need to be ambulatory?
For residential, clients must be ambulatory. La Selva house is not ADA accessible, so wheelchairs are not permitted. The PHP/IOP facility is ADA accessible. Clients may have wheelchairs or walkers but must be independent without staff’s help to walk or transfer.
What types of insurance are accepted?
La Selva contracts with many commercial insurance companies and accepts private pay. Programs are unable to accommodate Medicare and Medicaid.