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.
Epileptologist · Pediatric Neurologist Baylor Epilepsy Fellowship · TCH
Adult & Child Neurologist Clinical Professor UTMB · Baylor COM
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
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.
- 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
- 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
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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Starting in one area of the brain. May cause jerking, staring, or altered awareness.
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Involving both sides of the brain. Includes tonic-clonic (grand mal) seizures.
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Brief staring spells — often mistaken for daydreaming. Common in children.
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Triggered by fever in young children. Childhood seizures always need evaluation.
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Seizures in newborns — Dr. Mbanga has specific research expertise in this area.
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When the immune system attacks the brain, causing seizures. Requires specialist diagnosis.
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Drug-resistant seizures that do not respond to medications. Requires advanced management.
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Dravet, Lennox-Gastaut, Infantile Spasms, and other named epilepsy syndromes.
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.
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.
713-589-7020
713-999-9095
Mon–Fri 8am–5pm
3301 Plainview St, Suite 8 Pasadena, Texas 77504
Most epilepsy practices treat either children or adults. At Family Neurology, Dr. Mbanga treats all ages — so your child never needs a new specialist as they grow up.
- Newborns & infants
- Children & teenagers
- Adults of all ages
We accept epilepsy referrals for patients of all ages. Fax to 713-999-9095 or call 713-589-7020.
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.
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.
Related Pages
Fellowship-trained EEG interpretation
Specialist pediatric seizure care
Adult epilepsy care
Baylor epilepsy fellowship