Brain Balance of Greater San Diego
Brain Balance Has a Non-Medical Approach to Help Kids and Adults
Brain Balance is the leading drug-free program designed to help kids and adults improve focus, behavior, social skills, anxiety, and academic performance. Our comprehensive programming incorporates learnings from cognitive, behavioral and nutrition fields—an integrated approach that is literally redefining what’s possible.
For Children
Is something blocking your child’s social, behavioral or academic progress? Brain Balance picks up where conventional approaches leave off, going beyond the treatment of symptoms to address root causes. At Brain Balance, we’re not about coping with barriers. We’re about knocking them down, one small breakthrough at a time.
For Adults
Whether you are looking to enhance your attention, memory, and problem solving, or want to improve your stress and mood management, Brain Balance can help. The program is designed to strengthen brain connectivity using a unique combination of physical, sensory, and cognitive activities. We’ll ship you everything you need to complete your program from the comfort of your home.
Research Shows Brain Balance is Effective
A Harvard study found that kids who participated in the Brain Balance Program saw a significant reduction in ADHD index scores, discernible changes in hyperactivity, enhanced cognitive attention, and reductions in oppositional behavior.
We are continually collaborating with world class researchers to show the efficacy of the program and reveal through data how the Brain Balance Program can help children, teens and adults improve.
Find a better way forward. Complete the form to learn more.
About the Brain Balance Program®
The Brain Balance Program is made up of physical and sensorimotor exercises, academic skills training and healthy nutrition. It is tailored to the needs of your child, and delivered in a uniquely systematic approach that you'll be hard pressed to find anywhere else.
A Whole-Brain Approach
The program engages the brain and body together, through sensory engagement, physical development and academic learning activities.
Personalized to Your Child’s Challenges
The program is tailored to your child’s needs and development level, delivered with the frequency and duration needed to drive meaningful change.
Coaching & Support
Our coaches will personally guide you through the program, including evaluating progress and leveling up as your child advances.
1:1 Nutrition Sessions
A Nutrition Coach will help customize a healthy nutrition plan fit for your child's lifestyle and needs.
On-Demand Resources
You’ll have access to a Program Portal where you can view on demand helper videos, nutrition content, and program resources.
Program Format
Your child can work onsite at your local Brain Balance Center with our coaches three times per week.
We also offer an at-home virtual option that is parent-led. You'll have weekly video check-ins from your program coach.
Stories from Brain Balance of San Diego
"My daughter was diagnosed with ADHD. She attended phase one of the program and has seen significant improvement in behavior and socialization skills."
Dakota, Age 8
"There are not enough words in a dictionary to describe what brain balance has done for our family!"
Michelle, Age 12
"Ariel has gained self awareness and improved his focus. This has had positive effects at school and socially. We highly recommend Brain Balance."
Ariel, Age 10
"Words cannot express how delighted I am as a Mom for my child attending the Brain Balance program in San Diego. For those of you who have children that struggle and their actions, in turn, affect everyone around them, you are not alone! The last thing I ever wanted to do was medicate our child. So I kept researching and immediately our chiropractor and Occupational Therapist recommended the program. After his assessment at Brain Balance, I gained an amazing new perspective about my child and learned that they can get to the root of his struggles with his brain! No need for scans, and no need for a diagnosis."
Hunter, Age 8
"This is an excellent program and in my experience the results were observable even after just a few sessions. My daughter loves coming to Brain Balance and has had such a good experience she says she wants to be a Brain Balance Coach when she grows up. After two weeks I received my daughters 1st positive note home from school and after a month she no longer needed her behavior chart at school. At home I see she is less impulsive, her meltdowns are almost non-existent, she is able and even enjoys playing on her own, she is less reactive, and is willing to and utilizes calm down methods."
Colette, 5
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you accept insurance?
Brain Balance is not a medical program and does not provide a diagnosis, nor is it covered by health insurance. Our staff are all trained and certified through Brain Balance, and can receive additional certifications as Board Certified Cognitive Coaches, and Behavior Management through outside accrediting agencies.
Is there any research behind the program?
Harvard University’s McLean Hospital completed a study which demonstrated that the Brain Balance Program is as effective as stimulant medication in alleviating ADHD symptoms among children. Cambridge Brain Sciences also collaborated with Brain Balance on a study the results of which show that children who completed three months of the Brain Balance Program displayed significant improvements in cognition, particularly in areas of memory, reasoning, verbal ability, and concentration. Research published in the Journal of Mental Health and Clinical Psychology found that the Brain Balance Program is an effective, non-drug option for improving mental well-being, specifically in areas including overall happiness, emotional functioning, anxiety and social engagement.
How long is the program?
The program length is tailored to each child's unique needs. An initial assessment will help determine your child's program needs and cost. You'll also get a better understanding of how your child's challenges can improve. To schedule an assessment, complete our form here and we will reach out to you.
Our Team
Jon Pak
Executive Director
Jon Pak’s passion to open Brain Balance was born out of his experiences in raising a son with developmental disabilities. He values all the incredible connections with friends and families in the community that share a similar experience. His background includes serving on the board of Kids Included Together, Just in Time for Foster Youth, and the Korean American Coalition of San Diego. With many years of participation in the Big Brothers Big Sisters program, his desire to mentor and impact the lives of others is contagious. While he enjoyed a professional career with notable companies like Samsung Electronics, Merrill Lynch, UBS, and US Bank, Jon’s undeniable vision for an inclusive society with equitable opportunities and growth makes him an inspirational leader at Brain Balance of Greater San Diego.
Amanda Lee
Regional Director
Amanda Lee, M.A. Education, is an internationally board certified Cognitive Coach, Mindset certified, and has over 15 years of experience in the education field. She is a lifelong learner committed to promoting equity and access to quality education and believes every person should have the opportunity to actualize their full potential and to live life to the fullest. Every day she aims to inspire and be inspired. When not meeting with schools, families, or community members or leading trainings, you may find her enjoying the outdoors hiking and camping, rock climbing, dancing, playing beach volleyball, traveling, or being a foodie.
Lisa Telfer
Admissions Director
Lisa Telfer, B.S. Nursing and Registered Nurse, is a mother of a Brain Balance Graduate. After decades as an operating room nurse, she was so impressed with Brain Balance that she joined the team to help connect families to the transformative program. She loves building community in her neighborhood, church, and wherever else she goes. When not taking care of her family, she enjoys ocean swimming, mountain biking, traveling, cooking healthy meals, playing piano, spending time with friends, and cuddling with her preposterously cute dog.
Angie Arciga
Program Director
Angie Arciga, B.S. Exercise Science, is an internationally board certified Cognitive Coach, Mindset certified, and has over 8 years of experience with Brain Balance. She brings expertise from the physical therapy field and her creativity and background in music bring unique ideas and ways to work with and have fun with children while developing and creating new neural pathways. She also enjoys traveling, singing and playing mariachi music, and being out in nature.
Ricky Lau
Program Manager
Ricky Lau, M.Ed, is a SoCal native, having moved to SD from LA 10+ years ago. He has a strong background in customer service & hospitality, and is trained as a secondary science teacher. In his free time, he enjoys trying new restaurants, coffee shops, and recipes at home.
Heather Lowenthall
Program Specialist
Heather, M.S. Psychology, has worked with Brain Balance since 2008. Heather has a wide range of experience in therapeutic settings, preventative in-home counseling, foster care, and residential care. She is passionate about helping kids reach their full potential. In her spare time, she likes to read and spend time with her husband.
Zuleymy Bridges
Program Specialist
B.S Health Care Informatics, Certified Diabetes Instructor. Zuly has 12 years experience in the healthcare field that also comes with a wide range of experience with Care Management by Coordinating and monitoring clients care and access to services. In her spare time, she enjoys outdoor activities with her husband and 2 beautiful kids.
Katie Mello
Senior Coach
Katie Mello, B.S. Kinesiology, is an internationally board certified Cognitive Coach and specializes in inclusive physical activities in communities. She loves the multidisciplinary approach Brain Balance offers. Along with coaching and training her students and fellow colleagues, Katie also supports operations, community engagement, and other marketing efforts. When she’s not at work, you can find Katie walking on the beach, lifting weights, or preparing (and eating!) a healthy meal.
Sergio Carreon
Head Coach
Sergio Carreon, B.S. Kinesiology (Exercise and Sports Science), is an internationally board certified Cognitive Coach and has over 10 years experience working with kids and adults to reach their fullest potential. When not actively changing lives and making an impact in the community, you can find Sergio at the gym, beach, trying new foods, or enjoying a movie.
Lauren Carroll
Sensory Motor Coach
Lauren Carroll has been working in the field of special education specializing in children ages 6-18 for over five years. Lauren was a licensed behavioral therapist for neurodivergent children and has extensive experience implementing coping strategies for intense aggression/rage/meltdowns as well as experience with potty training, verbal expression (vocal therapy), managing behaviors, and motor movement. Lauren wants to create a safe space where children feel comfortable opening up about their struggles. In her spare time, Lauren loves to try new things at restaurants, read, and as a nature lover, you can always find her outside hiking, picnicking, camping, and taking photos.
Eliza Fontanilla
Sensory Motor Coach
Eliza Fontanilla, B.S. Cognitive Behavioral Neuroscience and Psychology, brings research experience examining connections between sensory perception, behaviors, and cognitive functions with neural activity, and combines that expertise with personal experience connecting with and understanding the unique abilities and needs of neurodivergent individuals. When she’s not at work, Eliza enjoys trying new restaurants with friends and family, working on creative projects at coffee shops, designing clothes, dancing, watching the sunset and stars, or cuddling at home with her cat.
Sam Umanzor
Sensory Motor Coach
Samuel Umanzor, B.S. Marketing, is a Sensory Motor Coach, who has had several years of experience working with children and adults. He loves to help individuals reach their fullest potential, from his 4 years of active duty leading Marines, to his time as a certified personal trainer. When he’s not helping others do their best, you can find him at the gym, training in martial arts, the beach, or at a concert.
Erika Martinez Barajas
Sensory Motor Coach
Erika Martinez Barajas, B.A. Applied Arts and Sciences Psychology, brings over five years of experience supporting her community and church. Through tutoring kids grades K-12, she developed a greater passion working with individuals with learning and behavioral challenges. In her spare time, you can catch Erika taking naps, spending time with family and friends, walking along the beach or park, and drinking coffee.
Gina Um
Center Coordinator
Gina Um, B.S. Psychology, is passionate about bringing positivity to her community through compassion and inclusivity. With over five years of experience in education, she aims to blend her psychology and business background with her interpersonal skills to nurture meaningful relationships with customers and families. Outside of work, you can catch Gina hanging out with her dog, trying new cafes, and learning how to play guitar.
Events
Brain Balance of San Diego Events
Download the 2024 October Events Calendar (PDF)
San Diego Public Library: Workshop Series from January to September 2024
Free Brain Balance workshops for all ages across San Diego Public Libraries!
Download the Adult Workshop Schedule
Brain Balance Open House: FREE Dynamic Vision Skills Test (in-person)
Did you know maintaining focus, balance, reading, driving, or playing sports relies on your dynamic vision—eyes, eye muscles, and brain working together? Explore Brain Balance and learn how our holistic brain health program can improve cognition, focus and ADHD symptoms, mental health, confidence, performance, and more for kids, teens, and adults. Receive a free dynamic vision skills test ($95 value) – spaces are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Reservation required.
Chula Vista Center: October 7, 3 - 5 PM
RSVP: bit.ly/bbcveyes102024
Encinitas Center: October 9, 3 - 5 PM
RSVP: bit.ly/bbeneyes102024
San Diego Center: October 10, 3 - 5 PM
RSVP: bit.ly/bbsdeyes102024
ADHD Myths & Realities: Practical Tools for Parents (virtual)
Thursday, October 10, 2024
10 AM PST
Join us for a special ADHD Awareness Month edition of the Brain Balance Parents Know Webinar Series. In this live conversation, Dr. Rebecca Jackson, Chief Programs Officer for Brain Balance, will be joined by Sarah McDowell, a Licensed Professional Counselor and behavioral health therapist with over 20 years of experience working with ADHD children and their families. Together, they’ll debunk the most common myths surrounding ADHD and provide parents with valuable insights and practical strategies to help their child thrive, no matter their age.
RSVP: brainbalancecenters.com/webinar/adhd-myths
Transition Planning for Neurodiverse Students (virtual)
Tuesday, October 22, 2024
1 PM - 2 PM PST
Adulting can be challenging, especially for neurodiverse students. Hear from neurodiverse ally, Crystal Sanford, M.Ed., M.A. CCC-SLP, ASDCS, Owner of Sanford Autism Advocacy Group, LLC, as she shares: 1. The role that the IEP can play in helping students to prepare for adulthood 2. What parents can do now to better prepare for the transition into adulthood 3. Available resources to support neurodivergent families through the process.
RSVP: bit.ly/bbsdtransition
Halloween Candy Buy Back (in-person)
Halloween can be a challenging time for families dealing with sensory sensitivities and food allergies, including reactions to artificial dyes and sugars. This year, we invite you to turn Halloween into a fun and safe experience for your family! If your child has food allergies or sensitivities, or if you’d like to avoid the sugar rush and subsequent crash, visit one of our Brain Balance of Greater San Diego centers. Participate in our Candy Exchange and swap your candy for exciting toys, engaging activities, and gift cards—while supplies last! This event supports the Teal Pumpkin Project, promoting inclusivity for all.
While you’re here, learn how sensory motor exercises and healthy nutrition can positively impact your child. We’ll be offering free center tours and limited-time assessment specials for attendees.
This is an IN-PERSON event, and the whole family is welcome! We encourage everyone to wear their Halloween costumes. All ages are invited to join in on the fun, but please RSVP to secure your spot.
San Diego Center: November 1-5, 12-6 PM
RSVP: bit.ly/bbsdhalloween2024
Chula Vista Center: November 4-5, 12-6 PM
RSVP: bit.ly/bbcvhalloween2024
Encinitas Center: November 5, 12-6 PM
RSVP: bit.ly/bbenhalloween2024
Find more content about us, webinars on demand, and our Brain Balance Program
BRAIN BALANCE OF THE GREATER SAN DIEGO AREA
Brain Balance helps children who struggle behaviorally, socially, and academically through a holistic and integrated approach that is customized to meet the needs of each child.
Read more about the Center
Brain Balance of San Diego
We have helped more than 50,000 individuals get to the root of their struggles and achieve lasting improvements, including:
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Focus & Attention
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Anxiety, Behavior & Mood
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Sensory Processing
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Learning & Academics
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Socialization & Relationship
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Motivation & Organization
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Impulsivity & Hyperactivity
Help your child thrive in the new school year
Many of our usual activities are being put on hold. Use this time to improve focus, behavior, social skills, and learning. Brain Balance’s non-medical program is designed to help kids and teens who struggle. The program is tailored to your child’s unique needs with a personalized plan of action and coaching. We’ll help you in the way that works best for you. The program is available onsite or online, at home. Join 50,000 other Brain Balance families and help your child thrive in the new school year.
At Brain Balance San Diego, CA we understand the pain and frustration of watching your child struggle with learning or behavioral issues. Here, and at our centers around the country, we have helped thousands of kids overcome their challenges. Our groundbreaking program provides lasting results because we don’t simply work with a child’s strengths or compensate for a weakness, we tackle the root cause of the issue.
Our unique Brain Balance Program® addresses the whole child by integrating sensory motor training and stimulation and academic activities with nutritional and dietary guidelines. This unique integrated approach is key to what makes Brain Balance different and so effective.
At Brain Balance, we understand that every child is unique and faces specific challenges. To help your child reach their goals, Brain Balance of San Diego will develop an individualized plan for your child based on the results of their personal assessment. Our drug-free, integrated approach combines a series of in-center and at-home activities as well as a nutritional program to give your child the tools they need to succeed. The Brain Balance Program can help to alleviate Attention Hyperactivity Deficit Disorder (ADHD), Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), Dyslexia, Asperger Syndrome, Sensory Processing Disorders, Leaky Gut and other common childhood developmental and learning disorders. Help your child find balance and reach their full potential. Contact Brain Balance of San Diego today to learn more.
We invite you to visit Brain Balance San Diego, CA at 10175 Rancho Carmel Drive, San Diego, CA 92128 for a personal tour. You can observe our program in action, meet our dedicated team and learn more about the many children we have helped right here in our community.
To contact us, call 858-324-5545 or click here to have one of our staff members contact you directly.
Brain Balance does not require that a child has a medical diagnosis, nor do we clinically diagnose medical conditions. Our focus is on understanding the struggles these children experience and helping them develop and strengthen the connections to help reduce those struggles.
For those who do have a diagnosis,1 research has shown that the unique challenges your child is facing can be linked to weak connections across different regions of the brain.
Get a deeper view into why your child struggles
The Brain Balance assessment provides you with a deeper view of your child’s struggles. During the assessment, your child’s sensory, motor and cognitive development are evaluated. This assessment helps identify areas of development that need strengthening. The reasons why a child may excel in some areas but has trouble in others will become clearer. From the results, we create a plan that helps your child overcome their struggles.
Schedule your Assessment
Fill out our form now to get started. A team member from a Brain Balance Center near you will reach out to personally discuss your child’s challenges and schedule your child’s assessment.
Location
10175 Rancho Carmel Drive
Suite 124
San Diego, CA 92128
310 3rd Avenue
Suite C7
Chula Vista, CA 91910
165 S El Camino Real
Ste E
Encinitas, CA 92024
Hours
San Diego
Monday – Friday: 11:00 a.m.- 7:00 p.m.
Saturdays by appointment only
Chula Vista
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 2:00 PM - 6:30 PM