FUNCTIONAL NEUROLOGICAL DISORDER (FND)
Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) is a condition where the brain has difficulty sending and receiving signals properly — even though the brain’s structure itself looks normal on scans like an MRI.
Think of it like this:
Your brain is the hardware. The way it communicates is the software. In FND, the hardware is intact — but the software is glitching.
The symptoms are real, involuntary, and often very distressing. They are not imagined, exaggerated, or “all in someone’s head.” FND is a recognized neurological condition and is treatable.
What Can FND Look Like?
FND can affect many body systems. Some common symptoms include:
- Sudden changes in speech
- Voice loss or strained voice
- Stuttering that comes on abruptly
- Difficulty swallowing
- Tremors or abnormal movements
- Weakness
- Episodes that resemble seizures (called functional seizures)
- Brain fog or cognitive changes
Symptoms may come and go, change over time, or worsen with stress, fatigue, illness, or overload.
Meet Nicki Bettino, FND-Informed Speech-Language Pathologist
Nicki is an FND-informed Speech-Language Pathologist who specializes in supporting individuals experiencing functional voice, speech, and swallowing disorders.
Nicki understands that FND symptoms are real, complex, and often misunderstood. Her approach combines:
· Evidence-based speech therapy techniques
· Nervous system education
· Compassionate care
· Collaborative treatment planning
· A trauma-informed lens
Patients feel validated, understood, and empowered in therapy.