Epilepsy Foundation (Nonprofit )

The Foundation is motivated by passion for people who are struggling with epilepsy that, to this day, continues to be misunderstood. We strive to help people with epilepsy to not define their lives by their diagnosis, but to lead active productive lives in supportive bully-free communities. The willingness to accept difficult challenges, through commitment to the community it serves, guides the organization’s unique understanding of the needs of individuals with epilepsy and their family.

As one of 47 Epilepsy Foundation National Organization affiliates, we cover 79 Texas counties encompassing 89,199 square miles. We are the only organization dedicated to the health and welfare of more than 155,000 individuals with epilepsy residing in Central and South Texas.

Hours
Monday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday: CLOSED
Sunday: CLOSED

Sindi Rosales - Founder/CEO Send email
Kimberly Martin, LVN - Assistant Director Send email
Online and Virtual Assistance

Program for Active Consumer Engagement in Self-Management.

PACES in epilepsy is a free program specifically designed to help adults with epilepsy manage their active seizure conditions. The goal is to help you develop strategies for epilepsy self-management for a more fulfilled and independent lifestyle.

PACES in Epilepsy discusses topics relevant to epilepsy in each session to improve self-management. The program consists of 8 weekly sessions each about 75 minutes. Each session is conducted via phone conference led by an epilepsy professional and a peer with epilepsy. At each session, participants are encouraged to engage by taking notes, asking questions, and sharing personal experiences. Each week, participants set a personal goal for the following week to improve how they deal with the challenges of living well with epilepsy.

PACES provides a wide range of topics that are important to people with epilepsy:

  • Epilepsy and other medical issues
  • Stress and depression
  • Memory and cognition
  • Community participation on a budget
  • Managing care
  • Assertive communication
  • Improving well-being

To be eligible:

  • Be 18 years or older
  • Have a cognitive age of 18 years or older
  • Have access to phone for weekly sessions

To sign up for the PACES in Epilepsy Program, fill out registration form. For more information, contact us through our online form or call us.

Free.

Hours
Monday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday: CLOSED
Sunday: CLOSED

Sindi Rosales Send email
Kimberly Martin, LVN Send email
Updated within the last 3 months.

Project UPLIFT (Using Practice and Learning to Increase Favorable Thoughts) is a home-based depression treatment program designed for adults with epilepsy. 

UPLIFT is delivered over the phone by a trained mental health facilitator and by a person with epilepsy. The program combines proven techniques of CBT with mindfulness. The goal of mindfulness is to help people change their relationship to their thoughts by viewing thoughts as passing events that do not necessarily represent reality. Based upon this “mindfulness-based” cognitive therapy for depression, the pilot study found the program to significantly reduce symptoms of depression among people with epilepsy.

Project UPLIFT has been effective in:

  • increasing knowledge and skills, 
  • reducing symptoms of depression, and
  • increasing satisfaction with life.

Other potential benefits include:

  • telephone delivery, eliminating the need for transportation
  • anonymity permitted by telephone delivery, which reduces stigma
  • group delivery provides for support from other people with epilepsy
  • cost effectiveness due to group delivery and no need for transportation
  • increased skills to minimize relapse
  • Be 18 years or older
  • Be diagnosed with epilepsy
  • Be able to read and write in English
  • Have access to phone for 8 weekly sessions
  • Complete the screening tools

For registration form, click here.

Hours
Monday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday: CLOSED
Sunday: CLOSED

Updated within the last 3 months.

Camp Brainstorm is a five-day, four-night overnight summer camp experience where youth with epilepsy come together and enjoy all the fun activities and friendships that come with a trip to camp, while leaving behind various challenges epilepsy can bring to their daily lives. They are all surrounded-some for the first time-by dozens of other kids who know exactly what having epilepsy means. There are no worries about what people will think if they had a seizure or if they will be excluded from activities just because they are different. At Camp Brainstorm, epilepsy is the norm.

From swimming to kayaking to rock climbing, all campers get to experience the fun activities of camp, while in a safe and medically monitored setting. In the months leading up to camp, Foundation staff build relationships with the campers, as well as their parents, and develop a solid grasp of their needs. This ensures an unforgettable camp experience.

Summer camp experience for youth with epilepsy ages 8–17.

To learn more, visit EpilepsyCamp.com.

Hours
Monday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday: CLOSED
Sunday: CLOSED

Updated within the last 3 months.

Our programs continue to create the best impact for children and adults. To schedule a presentation or for more information, contact us through our online form or by phone at (210) 653-5353.

Information tailored to a variety of populations:

Hours
Monday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday: CLOSED
Sunday: CLOSED

Sindi Rosales
Updated within the last 3 months.

Free in-person counseling or e-counseling.

Counseling sessions provide an important place for individuals and families affected by epilepsy to discuss social and personal issues that a physician may not have time or expertise to address. Counseling sessions may be especially beneficial for children, helping them to understand issues of independence, maturity, and personal growth. Sometimes, therapists help to identify when parents’ overprotectiveness is adversely affecting a child with epilepsy. Counseling sessions are also used to provide coping tools for common problems people with epilepsy face including memory issues.

In general, counseling sessions help to discuss, put in perspective, better understand, and cope with troubling issues that somehow relate to or affect the treatment of epilepsy. We offer free in-person counseling sessions or e-counseling for individuals who cannot travel.

We offer flexible appointment times to fit your busy schedule. For more information, contact us with our request form below or by phone at (210) 653-5353.

Free.

Hours
Monday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday: CLOSED
Sunday: CLOSED

Sindi Rosales Send email
Betsy Milvo, LPC
Updated within the last 3 months.

Helping families and adults who are unable to pay for their medications.

For epilepsy patients, taking their prescribed anti-seizure medication every day is critical to their health and safety. Patients who stop taking their medications without a physician’s supervision are in serious danger of having an unexpected seizure that could be a life-threatening event. Our staff recognizes the importance of medication adherence; our Emergency Medication Assistance Program is a critical service for epilepsy patients.

30-Day Supply of Medications:

This program provides a 30-day supply of an individual’s anti-seizure medications at no cost to the patient. Our staff works directly with the patient’s pharmacy to pay for the prescriptions. Emergency medical assistance is granted on a case-by-case basis.

Enrollment Assistance:

During the month the patient benefits from the program, our staff will work with the family or individual to help enroll them in a patient assistance program or insurance coverage to ensure they do not find themselves in the same situation after the 30-day supply is gone.

To learn more about Emergency Medical Assistance, contact us through our online form or by phone at (210) 653-5353.

Hours
Monday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday: CLOSED
Sunday: CLOSED

Updated within the last 3 months.

We distribute helmets to adults and children at high risk of head injury who cannot afford to purchase a helmet on their own in Central and South Texas. Beautifully designed helmets provide self-confidence, promote independence and improve quality of life. To a child with epilepsy, there is no greater gift than the opportunity to run and play just like anyone else.

We provide helmets to those in need in our service area (Central and South Texas).

This program is made possible by our sponsor Security Service Federal Credit Union, Danmar Products (helmet supplier) and the Women’s Federal Prison Camp in Bryan, Texas (women inmates hand paint and airbrush the designs).

For more information or to obtain a helmet, contact us through our online form or call us.

Free.

Hours
Monday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday: CLOSED
Sunday: CLOSED

Sindi Rosales Send email
Kimberly Martin, LVN Send email
Updated within the last 3 months.

HOBSCOTCH is a free program specifically for adults with epilepsy. It’s designed to help you find ways to manage and cope with your memory problems in order to lead a happier, more productive life.

HOBSCOTCH uses Problem Solving Treatment and Memory Strategies which will help you identify memory-related problems in your own daily life and find solutions to manage these problems. This program consists of 8 sessions delivered by a certified HOBSCOTCH Memory Coach. The sessions occur weekly and last 45-60 minutes. The first and last sessions are conducted either in-person in a private office setting, or virtually while the participant is at home using a computer or tablet and a webcam. It is up to the Memory Coach and participant to decide if an in-person or virtual approach is more appropriate. Your Memory Coach will guide you through the program, giving you encouragement and support, but the ideas, solutions, and actions come from YOU!

What You’ll Learn:

  • The ABC’s of memory, normal memory problem and how
  • seizures can affect cognition
  • Skills to improve your memory
  • Skills to compensate for memory problems in everyday life
  • How participating in physical and pleasant activities can reduce stress and improve your memory and your mood.

What You’ll Receive:

  • 8 sessions with a HOBSCOTCH certified Memory Coach
  • HOBSCOTCH Workbook
  • Memory Tool Box
  • Day Planner & Seizure Diary
  • Be 18 years or older
  • Be able to read and write in English with an IQ >70
  • Have access to phone for weekly sessions
  • Be able to commit to 8 sessions including 2 sessions in person or virtual
Hours
Monday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday: CLOSED
Sunday: CLOSED

Sindi Rosales Send email
Kimberly Martin, LVN Send email
Updated within the last 3 months.

The Live It! Youth Transition program is an educational program promoting independence, individuality, and growth. We offer a supportive environment for teens to meet and get information about managing their seizures and preparing for adulthood. Teens have a chance to get to know other teens living with epilepsy and learn ways to navigate life with epilepsy. Parents will have the opportunity to get tools and advice on parenting their teen who is living with epilepsy as they transition into adulthood.

 

Our meetings are held once a month in Dallas, Houston, San Antonio, and Austin from 10:30am to 12:30pm. You are also be able to join us online. To register and get email updates, contact us at [email protected].

Hours
Monday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday: CLOSED
Sunday: CLOSED

Sindi Rosales Send email
Kimberly Martin, LVN Send email
Updated within the last 3 months.

Our Men’s Retreat is designed to bring men with epilepsy together through outdoor activities, educational sessions, and conversation. This retreat focuses on issues specific to men and epilepsy and allows participants to form bonds and empower one another in their journey. This retreat alternates with the Women’s Retreat and happens every other Spring.  For more information, contact us at [email protected].

Hours
Monday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday: CLOSED
Sunday: CLOSED

Updated within the last 3 months.

We offer Seizure Clinics in Austin, Corpus Christi, Harlingen, Laredo, San Antonio and Uvalde for persons with epilepsy in our service area without access to specialized medical care. 

 Clinic services include:

  • Examination by Board-certified Neurologist
  • Emergency Medication Assistance
  • Electroencephalogram (EEG)
  • Laboratory Diagnostic Services
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
  • Medication Assistance Programs
  • Medical Case Management
  • Social Service Case Management

To become a new patient in our clinic you must meet the following criteria:

Hours
Monday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday: CLOSED
Sunday: CLOSED

Updated within the last 3 months.

Group art therapy for youth and adults with epilepsy.

Studio E allows youth and adults with epilepsy to explore their creativity, meet others with epilepsy and express themselves in an open, accepting and safe group setting. According to research, people living with epilepsy reported increased self-esteem after participating in Studio E. During the program, participants work with licensed art therapists using a variety of artistic media, including painting, sketching and sculpting. 

For more information, contact us here.

Hours
Monday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday: CLOSED
Sunday: CLOSED

Updated within the last 3 months.

Many of our activities, events and programs would not be possible without the assistance of volunteers like you. Volunteers are very important to the daily function of the Foundation. We offer numerous opportunities for volunteers on a short term or long term basis-whatever fits your schedule! All volunteers will be provided with the necessary training to do their jobs.

Administrative volunteers are always needed to help with:

  • Helping identify sponsors for special events
  • Inviting your friends and family to participate in our special events
  • Lending a hand at special events
  • Providing testimonials about our services
  • Sharing your epilepsy story with us
  • Suggesting speaking opportunities at community organizations

If you are interested in volunteering for the Foundation, please complete our online application form. In accordance with policy, we will conduct background checks on all volunteers working with children.

Hours
Monday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday: CLOSED
Sunday: CLOSED

Sindi Rosales Send email
Kimberly Martin, LVN Send email
Updated within the last 3 months.

Feel relaxed and renewed with our Women’s Retreat! This long weekend focuses on issues specific to women with epilepsy. Activities include outdoor, educational, and therapeutic activities. Our retreat offers a safe environment to form bonds and connect with peers. This retreat alternates with the Men’s Retreat and happens every other Spring. Register Here! For more info, contact us at  [email protected]

Hours
Monday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday: CLOSED
Sunday: CLOSED

Updated within the last 3 months.

The Young Adult Retreat invites young adults with epilepsy to take a step back and connect with their peers. During their long weekend away, they learn about nature, mindfulness, and about managing their epilepsy, all while making friends. Activities offered include archery, fishing, and arts and crafts. This Spring retreat is open to young adults with epilepsy ages 18-26. For more info, contact us at [email protected].

Hours
Monday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday: CLOSED
Sunday: CLOSED

Updated within the last 3 months.