What actually happens in the brain during addiction, anxiety, depression, or trauma, and how can we measure it in ways that meaningfully guide treatment? In this episode, hosts Dr. John Dyben and Dr. Rachel Docekal sit down with Hanley Center’s Chief Clinical Officer, Dr. Angelo Asheh, M.D., and neuropsychologist Dr. Yianoula Alexakis, Psy.D., to demystify the brain–behavior connection. Dr. Alexakis explains how neuropsychological testing, quantitative EEG (QEEG or “brain mapping”), and neurofeedback provide objective data to tailor interventions, while Dr. Asheh shares how those findings improve medical decision‑making and outcomes for people with co‑occurring substance use and mental health disorders.Along the way, Dr. Alexakis shares her first‑generation story (and a few accents!), then brings it back to hope: the brain’s capacity for neuroplasticity means recovery can be measured, trained, and strengthened over time, when clinicians work together around the whole person.What you’ll learnNeuropsychology 101: How brain–behavior assessment looks beyond symptoms to attention, memory, executive function, mood, and personality, so treatment is individualized, not one‑size‑fits‑all.Objective data that matters: Why cognitive testing + clinical observation + medical labs/imaging create a clearer diagnostic picture than any single data point alone.QEEG (brain mapping) explained: How quantitative EEG visualizes over‑ or under‑activation in brain networks related to sleep, anxiety, attention, and more, and how it becomes a baseline to track change.Neurofeedback & “neuro‑restorative” care: Training the brain toward healthier patterns to support mood regulation, focus, and recovery stability.Co‑occurring realities: Why treating substance use and the underlying drivers (trauma, anxiety, depression) is essential, and how integrated teams align around that.Whole‑system health: The gut–brain axis, sleep hygiene, stress physiology, psychotherapy, and medication, how they intersect with brain function and recovery.Hope through neuroplasticity: The brain can adapt. Measuring progress over time helps patients see change and stay engaged.Episode highlightsThe role of a neuropsychologist on a treatment team, and why data‑informed care improves outcomes.Distinguishing ADHD‑like symptoms from anxiety or depression during assessment.Practical uses of QEEG in residential treatment and aftercare planning.How neuropsych findings support smarter prescribing and case formulation.“Two Dr. A’s” on collaboration: medicine, psychology, therapy, sleep, nutrition, and brain training working in concert.Closing message: a clear, compassionate case for measured hope.Learn MoreLearn about our programs visit: hanleycenter.orgSpeak with our admissions team at: 844‑502‑4673

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