What does an EEG test show?

An EEG records the brain's electrical activity to detect patterns associated with seizures or epilepsy. It is painless, safe for all ages, and all EEGs at Family Neurology are interpreted by Dr. Mbanga — fellowship-trained in EEG interpretation.

Fellowship-Trained Epileptologist All Ages — Children & Adults EEG Testing On-Site

Epilepsy & Seizure Specialist in Houston & Pasadena, TX

Expert epilepsy care from the only fellowship-trained epileptologist in private practice in SE Houston. We diagnose and treat all seizure types in children and adults — from febrile seizures to complex, drug-resistant epilepsy.

📞 Call 713-589-7020 Book Appointment →

Dr. Vanessa Mbanga, MD

Epileptologist & Pediatric Neurologist
Baylor College of Medicine · Texas Children's Hospital

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Also on staff

Dr. Lisa Nassif Wright, MD

Adult & Child Neurologist · Treats adult & pediatric seizures

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Medically reviewed by Dr. Vanessa Mbanga, MD — Epileptologist & Pediatric Neurologist, Baylor Epilepsy Fellowship · Texas Children's Hospital · Dr. Lisa Nassif Wright, MD — Adult & Child Neurologist, Baylor College of Medicine

Expert Epilepsy Care

What Is an Epileptologist — and Why Does It Matter?

Not all neurologists have the same training. An epileptologist is a neurologist who has completed an additional fellowship specifically in epilepsy — providing a higher level of expertise for seizure diagnosis, EEG interpretation, and complex epilepsy management. Dr. Vanessa Mbanga completed her epilepsy fellowship at Baylor College of Medicine with advanced EEG training at Texas Children's Hospital — and she is one of the only epileptologists in private practice in SE Houston.

General Neurologist

Treats a broad range of neurological conditions
Diagnoses and manages common seizure types
Performs and reads basic EEGs
Prescribes first-line seizure medications
May refer complex cases to an epileptologist

Epileptologist — Dr. Mbanga

Completed an additional epilepsy fellowship at Baylor College of Medicine
Advanced EEG interpretation — trained at Texas Children's Hospital
Manages complex, refractory, and drug-resistant epilepsy
Specializes in neonatal seizures and autoimmune encephalitis
Treats epilepsy in all ages — newborns through adults
Active researcher — presents at AES and ACNS national conferences
Fluent in English and French

What We Treat

Types of Epilepsy & Seizures We Treat

We treat all seizure types and epilepsy syndromes in children and adults at our Pasadena, TX clinic. We are SE Houston's specialist for epilepsy in children, childhood seizures, and adult epilepsy.

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Focal Seizures

Starting in one area of the brain. May cause jerking, staring, or altered awareness.

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Generalized Seizures

Involving both sides of the brain. Includes tonic-clonic (grand mal) seizures.

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Absence Seizures

Brief staring spells — often mistaken for daydreaming. Common in children.

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Febrile Seizures

Triggered by fever in young children. Childhood seizures always need evaluation.

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Neonatal Seizures

Seizures in newborns — Dr. Mbanga has specific research expertise in this area.

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Autoimmune Epilepsy

When the immune system attacks the brain, causing seizures. Requires specialist diagnosis.

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Refractory Epilepsy

Drug-resistant seizures that do not respond to medications. Requires advanced management.

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Epilepsy Syndromes

Dravet, Lennox-Gastaut, Infantile Spasms, and other named epilepsy syndromes.

Diagnosis & Treatment

How We Diagnose & Treat Epilepsy

Accurate seizure classification is the foundation of effective epilepsy treatment. We use a systematic, evidence-based approach to identify the seizure type, understand the underlying cause, and create a personalized plan.

Comprehensive Evaluation

Detailed neurological history, seizure description, family history, and full neurological examination.

EEG Brain Testing

In-office EEG records brain electrical activity. All EEGs are interpreted by Dr. Mbanga — fellowship-trained in EEG. Learn about EEG testing →

Seizure Classification & Diagnosis

Identifying the exact seizure type and epilepsy syndrome — this determines the most effective treatment.

Personalized Treatment Plan

Medication management tailored to seizure type, age, and lifestyle. Safety guidance, driving considerations, and school/work accommodations.

For Referring Physicians

We accept epilepsy referrals for patients of all ages. Fax to 713-999-9095 or call 713-589-7020.

Physician referral page →

Common Questions

Epilepsy & Seizure FAQ

What is an epileptologist?

An epileptologist is a neurologist who has completed an additional fellowship specifically in epilepsy. This advanced training provides expertise in advanced EEG interpretation, seizure classification, complex epilepsy syndromes, and drug-resistant epilepsy management. Dr. Mbanga completed her epilepsy fellowship at Baylor College of Medicine with EEG training at Texas Children's Hospital.

Do I need a referral to see an epilepsy specialist?

Many insurance plans allow direct access to a specialist. Call our office at 713-589-7020 and we will verify your insurance and let you know exactly what is needed before your appointment.

Does Family Neurology treat adults with epilepsy?

Yes. Dr. Mbanga treats epilepsy and seizures in patients of all ages — newborns through adults. This is a key advantage: your child never needs to switch to a different epilepsy specialist when they become an adult. See our adult seizures and epilepsy page for more information.

What is the difference between a seizure and epilepsy?

A seizure is a single episode of abnormal electrical activity in the brain. Epilepsy is diagnosed when a person has two or more unprovoked seizures, or one seizure with a high risk of recurrence. See our childhood seizures page or adult seizures page for condition-specific information.

What does an EEG show?

An EEG (electroencephalogram) records the brain's electrical activity to detect patterns associated with seizures or epilepsy. It is painless and safe for all ages. Learn everything about EEG testing →

Is epilepsy treatable?

Yes. About 70% of people with epilepsy can become seizure-free with the right medication. For drug-resistant epilepsy, advanced options including dietary therapy (ketogenic diet), neuromodulation, and surgical evaluation may provide additional seizure control.

What should I bring to my first epilepsy appointment?

Bring any prior EEG reports, MRI or CT scan results, a list of current medications, and — if available — a video of a seizure episode. This helps Dr. Mbanga make the most accurate diagnosis at your first visit. See our visit preparation guide for a complete checklist.