Epilepsy
At the Vanderbilt Epilepsy Center, we evaluate and care for adult and pediatric patients who are experiencing a range of symptoms — from mild seizures to more complex epilepsy disorders. We also work with patients who have been diagnosed with medication-resistant epilepsy. Here at Vanderbilt, you’ll find a full range of the latest medications and non-medication treatment options.
Conditions We Treat
We treat all conditions related to epilepsy, including:
- Seizure disorders
Meet Your Care Team
Tyler J. BallMD
- Deep Brain Stimulation, Epilepsy, Neurologic Surgery, Neurological Surgery, Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Spine, Comprehensive
Sarah K. BickMD
- Deep Brain Stimulation, Epilepsy, Essential Tremor, Movement Disorders, Neuralgia, Trigeminal, Neurologic Surgery, Neurological Surgery
Dario J. EnglotMS, PhD, MD
- Epilepsy, Movement Disorders, Neuralgia, Trigeminal, Neurologic Surgery, Neurological Disorders, Surgery, Neurological Surgery, Neurosciences
Monica L. JacobsBS, Psy.D.
- Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Clinical Psychologist, Psychiatry
Alphonso A. SmithPhD, MA, BS
- Clinical Neuropsychologist, Clinical Neuropsychology, Dementia, Epilepsy, Movement Disorders, Neurosciences, Stroke and Cerebrovascular
Why Choose Vanderbilt
- Recognized care
We’re recognized by the National Association of Epilepsy Centers as the only Level 4 Epilepsy Center for adults in Tennessee, and we’re one of only two Level 4 Epilepsy Centers for children in the state. Additionally, we have the largest Epilepsy Monitoring Unit (EMU) in Tennessee, with eight adult and four pediatric monitoring beds.
- Skilled clinicians
Our epileptologists, neurosurgeons and neuropsychologists provide the highest level of care to patients living with mild to complex epilepsy. They, along with our team of experienced nurses, have the expertise you want when you’re looking for the answers you need. In addition to treating patients, our doctors also teach residents, medical students and epileptology fellows — training the next generation of researchers and physicians who will lead the way in epilepsy treatment
- Coordinated care
Because of the wide range of symptoms and severity levels of epilepsy, effective treatment often requires a multidisciplinary approach. Depending on your symptoms, we collaborate with Vanderbilt doctors in other specialties to provide the most comprehensive care for you.
- Innovation
Our doctors are involved in a variety of research projects designed to deliver a deeper understanding of epilepsy and improve treatment options. They’re also committed to providing the latest treatments to patients — including those whose epilepsy can’t be controlled with medication.
- Care coordinators
If your treatment plan involves a surgical procedure, our program coordinator will help you navigate the process, from scheduling pre-surgical tests to obtaining your medical records to assisting with insurance authorizations.
- Personalized care
We tailor your treatment plan to meet your unique needs and health goals. We help you navigate your treatment options to ensure you receive the best possible care.
- Clinical trials
As part of an academic medical center, we offer access to some of the most promising new approaches being tested in clinical trials. Find a clinical trial.
An epilepsy patient's life transformed by surgery
Tests, Treatments and Services
We offer a full range of tests, treatments and services, including:
- Dietary therapies
- Epilepsy monitoring
- Epilepsy pre-surgical evaluation
- FDG-PET Scan
- Functional MRI
- Ictal SPECT