Introduction to Neurocounseling
March 22, 2025
In-Person location: Charlotte, NC
Neurocounseling, also referred to as neuro-science informed counseling, lies at the crossroads of brain-based research and traditional therapeutic techniques. The brain has long been considered the least understood organ of the human body, but emerging research is shedding light on how brains, not just behaviors, can be changed when specific techniques are used in the therapeutic setting. New brain-based counseling methods informed by recent discoveries related to neuroplasticity, neuron creation, and the production of new neural connections are being used to alter and improve the way the brain functions. This course provides a foundational introduction to neurocounseling, as well as specific learning and practical interventions in the areas of Polyvagal Thery and Memory Reconsolidation. Through interactive lectures, live demonstrations, and experiential practicum, this 4-hour training teaches participants how to utilize neurocounseling techniques with diverse client populations in various settings. These interventions are brain-based, scientifically supported, neuroscience-informed, and designed for both continuous treatment and acute emotional trauma situations.
Presenter Bios:
Patty Montagnino, MSW, LCSW – Patty graduated magna sum laude from Hoftstra University and later received her Master’s Degree in Social Work from Fordham University. She has over 20 years of experience in the field of mental health, specializing in the treatment of trauma for the last decade. She is a Master Level Practitioner of Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) and an RTM Protocol (Reconsolidation of Traumatic Memories) Certified Clinician.
In 2019 Patty was invited by Brave Step to provide trauma-focused services to survivors of sexual violence in the Charlotte area. She was named the 2023 Provider Plus Award Honoree for her contributions to the Brave Step community. Patty is also part of a growing team of clinicians throughout the country supporting the efforts of Fairways For Warriors to heal the invisible wounds of veterans.
Patty is licensed to practice in both North and South Carolina and is an NASW Certified Clinical Supervisor.
Alexis Arzuago, MDiv, MA, LCMHC, LCASA, NCC – Alexis is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, a Nationally Certified Counselor, and Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist-Associate who earned an undergraduate degree from the Pontifical Catholic University of Puerto Rico, a Master of Divinity from Duke University, and a Master of Arts Degree in Counseling from Wake Forest University. He currently working toward my PhD at the University of North Carolina – Greensboro
Alexis is also a clinically trained chaplain where he worked with medical and allied health providers, patients, and their families in hospital/clinical and residential settings. He completed the Trauma Informed Professional Practice (TIPP) training program through UNC – Greensboro, is a Master Level Practitioner of Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), and utilizes other neuropsychotherapeutic and brain-based healing modalities to help the individual process and/or resolve the debilitating effects of trauma.
Alexis is honored to work with and collaborate with a couple of non-profit organizations that provide services to provide services to veterans and their families, such as Fairways for Warriors and Operation Red Wings Foundation to provide trauma-informed care to the organization’s members.
Timeline:
8:45am – 9:15am: Paperwork and group introdcutions
9:15am – 10:00am: Introduction to Neurocounseling
10:00am – 10:45am: Overview of Polyvagal Theory, Practicum – Breath Work
10:45am – 10:55am: Break
10:55am – 11:40am: Introduction to Memory Reconsolidation (MR)
11:40am – 12:30pm: Overview of Internal Family Systems (IFS)
12:30pm – 12:50pm: Questions and Answers
12:50pm – 1:20pm: Lunch
1:20pm – 1:50pm: Overview of Progressive Counting (PC)
1:50pm – 2:40pm: Demonstration: Integrating Breath Work, IFS Guided Imagery, and Progressive Counting into a session, Debrief
2:40pm – 2:45pm: Break
2:45pm – 3:45pm: Participant Small Group Practicum
3:45pm – 4:30pm: Debrief, Question and Answers, Wrap Up
Learning Objectives:
After completing the Introduction to Neurocounseling Training, attendees will be able to:
- Recall and explain foundational neuroscience concepts as they relate to neuroscience informed counseling.
- Recognize the role of the Autonomic Nervous System in the body and recall and demonstrate introductory regulating techniques of Polyvagal Theory.
- Explain elementary concepts of neurocounseling related to Memory Reconsolidation.
- Apply Internal Family System’s concept of Self and Progressive Counting elements to the Memory Reconsolidation Process.
- Identify client issues/concerns that can be supported with a neurocounseling intervention.
- Apply neurocounseling techniques to client interactions through demonstration and practice.
To register for this live workshop please email: patty@pattymontagnino.com
This course content is based on a publication that has been peer-reviewed, the scientific standard for evaluating academic work. All studies and scientifically derived evidence have limitations that should be considered. If you have any questions about the accuracy or limitations of the content, please contact us at
support@ce-classes.com and we will get back to you.
