A Matter of Balance is an evidence-based program for older adults. 10 to 12 older adults meet for 8 two-hour sessions either once or twice weekly in senior centers and other community settings in Santa Clara and San Mateo Counties. Through facilitated discussions, group activities and exercise, older adults learn strategies to help reduce fear of falling and fall risks. Program dates and sites vary.

To enroll or for more information, call 650.724.9369.

The Stanford Supportive Care Program provides free classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all neuroscience patients regardless of where they receive their care.

This free, home-based fall prevention program sends an occupational therapist to the home to look at the multi-faceted risk factors associated with falls. The therapist assesses strength and balance, and a home safety evaluation with recommendations is completed. Medications are reviewed by a Stanford Health Care pharmacist, home exercises are recommended, and information and education on other risk factors are provided.

This program offers two visits, and follow-ups phone calls are made monthly.After one year, the occupational therapist returns to the home for a third visit and re-evaluation. Self-referrals are welcome.

The Stanford Supportive Care Program provides free classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all neuroscience patients regardless of where they receive their care.

Sponsored by Stanford Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center and the Aging Adult Services’ Memory Support Program, this is a small interactive group workshop for caregivers of people with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. This free evidence-based workshop will help you learn concrete skills to better manage stress and challenging behaviors.  Registration is required.

The Stanford Supportive Care Program provides free classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all neuroscience patients regardless of where they receive their care.

Chair Reiki sessions help you relax, reduce stress or discomfort, and decrease pain. In this technique, while sitting in a chair, the Reiki practitioner either gently puts his/her hands on your shoulders, head and upper parts of the body or holds the hands slightly above your body in various positions to help your energy flow more easily. Reiki is very relaxing and often promotes a sense of peace and well-being.

The Stanford Supportive Care Program provides free classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all neuroscience patients regardless of where they receive their care.

Finding health-related information on the Internet that is reliable, current, and evidence-based takes knowledge and skill. With a focus on neuroscience, participants in this program will learn the basics of good research techniques and sources of trustworthy information online.

Appointments only. To schedule an appointment, call 650.725.8655.

The Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program provides FREE classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all cancer patients, regardless of where they receive their care. View more classes and events at the Stanford Neuroscience Supportive Care Program

The Speech Communication Group was created for individuals who have experienced a stroke or other neurological impairment. In a relaxed and informal setting, Stanford’s highly skilled speech language pathologists facilitate the group and provide participants with the opportunity to practice speech, language, and cognitive skills, experience the camaraderie of those with similar challenges, take pleasure in the social aspect of group therapy and have fun. The group also organizes a variety of community outings.

Registration is required. 

The Stanford Supportive Care Program provides free classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all neuroscience patients regardless of where they receive their care.

We understand that this can be a challenging time for patients.  Below is a list of online resources available to you that may be of help and provide comfort during the state mandated shelter-in-place.

Family Caregivers
Coronavirus (COVID-19) Resources and Articles for Family Caregivers (Family Caregiver Alliance) 

Individuals, parents, and educators
Greater Good’s Guide to Well-Being During Coronavirus (Greater Good Science Center)

Seniors
Join the Mon Ami Phone Bank to receive calls on a daily, weekly, or other regular basis from volunteer callers who speak multiple languages.

Patients, Survivors, Families, and Caregivers
Online resources and education. (Cancer Care Point)

Mindfulness based stress reduction via Zoom. (Club Mindful)

Mindfulness audio resources. (Stanford Health Library) 

Patients and Families

Programs available from home by telephone (Bay Area Cancer Connection) 

Online Peer Community (Smart Patients)

Database of free and reduced-cost health resources and services (Health Hub) 

Special online offering

Wednesdays
10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

Registration required.  To register, complete the Online Registration Form.

This chair ­­­yoga class is designed to safely provide caregivers and patients with a set of moderate, stretching, strengthening, and balance exercises. This yoga sequence proceeds with gentle breathing, attitude bolstering, warmups, and standing balances (with chair support). For deepening relaxation, it uses a mindfulness bell to promote one-pointed focus.

Walk-ins welcome.

The Stanford Supportive Care Program provides free classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all neuroscience patients regardless of where they receive their care.

Special online offering

Every Monday & Friday
1:30 p.m. - 2:45 p.m.

Registration required.  To register, complete the Online Registration Form.

Our classes are based on the innovative Dance for PD program designed by the Mark Morris Dance Group and the Brooklyn Parkinson Group. Using this method, professional dancers draw on their unique expertise to help people with Parkinson’s Disease and their caregivers engage sight, sound, touch, thought, and imagination to inspire movement and expression. Dancing in chairs, at a barre, or standing, experienced teaching artists lead participants in an enjoyable blend of modern dance, ballet, and social dancing. While strengthening, balancing, and moving in rhythm to live music, people with PD also experience the power of dance and music to sharpen attention, inspire, and empower.  Walk-ins welcome.

Dance at Home
For an online library of dance videos that you can do at home, click here.

To watch the Stanford Medicine video of Dance for Parkinson's, click here.

The Stanford Supportive Care Program provides free classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all neuroscience patients regardless of where they receive their care.

If you have Huntington’s disease, or are a family member or caregiver of someone with Huntington’s disease, we welcome you to join our quarterly telephone support group.  We will discuss experiences and challenges living with Huntington’s disease, provide opportunities to ask questions, and share available resources.

Registration is required.
To register, complete the online registration form below.

Available in-person: Check back for new dates.

The Stanford Supportive Care Program provides free classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all neuroscience patients regardless of where they receive their care.

Special online offering

Every Thursday
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Registration required.  To register, call or email facilitator.

This group discussion seeks to explore, learn, and grow from talking all about the “MS in the room”. You’re invited to come connect with others living with MS, in a friendly environment, where we share, discuss, and support each other’s efforts to manage our health and wellness. Guest speakers for some of the meetings include Stanford medical professionals and MS community resources. Join us, as we strategize how to live fully and live well with MS.

The Stanford Supportive Care Program provides free classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all neuroscience patients regardless of where they receive their care.

Are you caring for a loved one with a diagnosed with Mild Cognitive Impairment, Alzheimer’s disease, or a related dementia? You are not alone. Join our telephone support group and connect with others experiencing similar challenges. The group offers a safe space for peer support and to share information and learn about available resources. This support group is facilitated by the Stanford Health Care Neuroscience Supportive Care Program and Sage Eldercare.

Registration required. To register, click the REGISTER ONLINE button and complete the form.

The Stanford Supportive Care Program provides free classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all neuroscience patients regardless of where they receive their care.

This online Tai Chi class will help you build balance, coordination, flexibility, and strength and can be performed by anyone regardless of age or physical condition. Tai Chi strengthens the body, quiets and calms the mind and emotions, and improves overall health and well-being.   

Registration required.  Click on the registration form below, and complete.

The Stanford Supportive Care Program provides free classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all neuroscience patients regardless of where they receive their care.

Special online offering

Every Tuesday
10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

Registration required. To register, complete the online registration form.

Yoga for Strength will incorporate the mindful practices of yoga, breath work and meditation to build physical, mental and emotional strength and stamina. In the process, the class will help increase mental and physical flexibility, loosen tight and painful muscles, and create an opportunity to relax. The class is appropriate for all levels and will utilize both chair and standing postures.

Walk-ins welcome.

The Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program provides FREE classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all cancer patients, regardless of where they receive their care.

View more classes and events at the Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program »

Matter of Balance is an evidence-based program for older adults.  10 – 12 older adults meet for a two-hour session every week for 8 weeks.  Through facilitated discussions, group activities, and exercise, older adults learn strategies to help reduce fear of falling and fall risks.

Registration required.

The Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program provides FREE classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all cancer patients, regardless of where they receive their care.

View more classes and events at the Stanford Neuroscience Supportive Care Program

Ai Chi is an active relaxation program, using a combination of deep breathing and slow, broad movements in flowing continual patterns.  Performed in shallow warm water, it has been shown to improve balance, decrease fatigue and pain, and positively affect many chronic conditions.  

Registration required.

The Stanford Supportive Care Program provides free classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all neuroscience patients regardless of where they receive their care.

Special online offering

Wednesdays
10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

Registration required.  To register, complete the Online Registration Form.

This chair ­­­yoga class is designed to safely provide caregivers and patients with a set of moderate, stretching, strengthening, and balance exercises. This yoga sequence proceeds with gentle breathing, attitude bolstering, warmups, and standing balances (with chair support). For deepening relaxation, it uses a mindfulness bell to promote one-pointed focus.

Walk-ins welcome.

The Stanford Supportive Care Program provides free classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all neuroscience patients regardless of where they receive their care.

This class is designed specifically for Parkinson’s patients. In each session, a professional cycling instructor guides participants through an hour-long workout on a stationary bike. Brain connectivity, balance and everyday activity are all improved through cycling. No previous experience with cycling or spin classes is necessary. This program is supported by a community grant from the Parkinson’s Foundation.

Registration required.

The Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program provides FREE classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all cancer patients, regardless of where they receive their care.

View more classes and events at the Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program »

Special online offering

Every Monday & Friday
1:30 p.m. - 2:45 p.m.

Registration required.  To register, complete the Online Registration Form.

Our classes are based on the innovative Dance for PD program designed by the Mark Morris Dance Group and the Brooklyn Parkinson Group. Using this method, professional dancers draw on their unique expertise to help people with Parkinson’s Disease and their caregivers engage sight, sound, touch, thought, and imagination to inspire movement and expression. Dancing in chairs, at a barre, or standing, experienced teaching artists lead participants in an enjoyable blend of modern dance, ballet, and social dancing. While strengthening, balancing, and moving in rhythm to live music, people with PD also experience the power of dance and music to sharpen attention, inspire, and empower.  Walk-ins welcome.

Dance at Home
For an online library of dance videos that you can do at home, click here.

To watch the Stanford Medicine video of Dance for Parkinson's, click here.

The Stanford Supportive Care Program provides free classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all neuroscience patients regardless of where they receive their care.

Special online offering

Tuesdays
3:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. 

For information or to register, email cancersupportivecare@stanfordhealthcare.org

Mindful Meditation is an ancient practice of maintaining moment-by-moment awareness through a gentle and nurturing lens. Clinical researchers have reported that mindfulness practices can help with managing stress, reducing pain, fatigue, anxiety, depression, and improve ability to cope with serious illness. No prior experience necessary.

Walk-ins welcome.

"I have attended the Monday morning Mindful Meditation class for many months and find it extremely helpful in dealing with my MS.  Farzaneh is an excellent teacher and has created a warm and friendly environment for those who attend her class. The skills I have learned, have been extremely helpful in dealing with life’s daily challenges." -Stanford Patient

The Stanford Supportive Care Program provides free classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all neuroscience patients regardless of where they receive their care.

This exercise program is designed specifically to target PD symptoms. Exercise moves performed in this class are the building blocks for everyday movement and are performed with large amplitude, high effort, and attention to action in multiple postures. There are two class options depending on the participants’ physical strength and mobility.  Registration required

No in-person class until further notice.

The Stanford Supportive Care Program provides free classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all neuroscience patients regardless of where they receive their care.

In this class, people of all ages and stages can engage in exercises that enhance their ability to tap into their vital life force energy (Qi) via skillful application of an ancient and time-established Chinese healing exercise craft (Gong). We will work on mindful breathing, movement, posture, coordination and energetic flow, weaving in meditative and mindful awareness to enhance vitality. Come join us and gain greater vitality, relaxation and transformation in mind, body, spirit, and emotional whole-person well-being.

Walk-ins welcome.

To learn more about the Stanford Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, click here.

The Stanford Supportive Care Program provides free classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all neuroscience patients regardless of where they receive their care.

Special Online Offering

Tuesdays & Thursdays
Registration required. Click here for more details.

This Tai Chi class will help build balance, coordination, flexibility, and strength and can be performed by anyone regardless of age or physical condition. Tai Chi strengthens the body, quiets and calms the mind and emotions, and improves overall health and well-being. Walk-ins welcome.

The Stanford Supportive Care Program provides free classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all neuroscience patients regardless of where they receive their care.

Supported by the American Parkinson Disease Association, this class teaches Argentine Tango as an exercise for improving movement and balance for adults with Parkinson’s.  Through musicality and movement of Tango patterns, you are taught to become more aware of your center of balance and body movement while having the enjoyment of dancing.

Students must able to walk onto the dance floor to join the class.  No previous experience in Tango or any other form of dance is necessary.  The class is open for anyone from a beginner through experienced dancer along with their partners (bringing a partner is preferred but not necessary). Walk-ins welcome.

Dance at Home
For an online library of dance videos that you can do at home, click here.

The Stanford Supportive Care Program provides free classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all neuroscience patients regardless of where they receive their care.

Special online offering

Every Tuesday
10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

Registration required. To register, complete the online registration form.

Yoga for Strength will incorporate the mindful practices of yoga, breath work and meditation to build physical, mental and emotional strength and stamina. In the process, the class will help increase mental and physical flexibility, loosen tight and painful muscles, and create an opportunity to relax. The class is appropriate for all levels and will utilize both chair and standing postures.

Walk-ins welcome.

The Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program provides FREE classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all cancer patients, regardless of where they receive their care.

View more classes and events at the Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program »

At Stanford, we have treated over 1,000 acoustic neuromas over the last 20 years with surgery and radiosurgery. The Stanford Cyberknife Program is one the most active and experienced Cyberknife programs for acoustic neuromas in the U.S.

Acoustic neuroma, also known as vestibular schwannoma, is a slow-growing benign tumor that develops on the nerve that connects the ear and the brain. The tumor usually starts growing in the internal auditory canal, and presses against the hearing and balance nerves as it grows.

If you have been diagnosed with acoustic neuroma, and have questions or wish to explore treatment options and coping strategies with other patients and clinical experts, please join us for upcoming Stanford Acoustic Neuroma Support Group meetings.

The meetings are free of charge, and are a great resource for patient education and resources available to acoustic neuroma patients and families. Support group meetings will be co-moderated by acoustic neuroma patients. The meetings consist of 20 minutes speaker presentation, 20 minutes patients' presentations of their own experiences, and open forum for discussion. Also, leading Stanford Neurosurgeon and acoustic neuroma expert Steven D. Chang, MD, will join for a Q&A session at the end of each meeting.

Next Topic:

Feb 5, 2020: "Atypical presenting symptoms for acoustic neuromas and how to manage them" by Steven Chang, MD

Past Talks:

Nov 6, 2019: "Acoustic Neuroma Panel Discussion" with Steven Chang, MD and Antonio Meola, MD

May 1, 2019: "Controversies in the Diagnosis and Management of Acoustic Neuromas" by Steven Chang, MD, Professor, Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University

Feb 6, 2019: "Balance therapy and treatment of balance related issues secondary to Acoustic Neuromas" by Hiroyasu Sugihara, PT, DPT and Pamela Triano, PT, NCS

Nov 1, 2018: Acoustic Neuroma Case Presentations: Challenging Cases and Panel Discussion" by Gordon Li, MD and Antonio Meola, MD, moderated by Steven D. Chang, MD

May 3, 2018: "Acoustic Neuroma Case Presentation and Panel Discussion" by Geoffrey Appelboom, MD, Department of Neurosurgery, and Steven Hancock, MD, Department of Radiation Oncology, moderated by Steven D. Chang, MD, Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University School of Medicine

February 1, 2018: "Anxiety, Depression, and Coping with the Diagnosis of Acoustic Neuromas" by M. Bret Schneider, MD, Diplomate, American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology

November 2, 2017: "Long term results of Cyberknife Radiosurgery for Acoustic Neuromas" by Steven D. Chang, MD, Professor, Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University

August 3, 2017: "Acoustic Neuroma Case Presentation and Panel Discussion" by Geoffrey Appelboom, MD, Hilary Bagshaw, MD and Antonio Meola, MD, moderated by Steven D. Chang, MD

May 4, 2017: "Common Eye Problems and Optimal Eye Care Related to Acoustic Neuroma" by Steven D. Chang, MD, Professor, Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University School of Medicine

February 2, 2017: "New data in the medical literature regarding acoustic neuroma treatments" by Steven Chang, MD, Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University

November 3, 2016: "Acoustic Neuroma Case Presentation and Panel Discussion" by Geffrey Appelboom, MD, and Navjout Chaudhary, MD, Department of Neurosurgery, moderated by Steven D. Chang, MD, Department of Neurosurgery

August 4, 2016: "Stereotactic Radiosurgery: Facts and Controversies" by Steven Chang, MD, Professor, Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford

May 5, 2016: "Hearing Aids for Acoustic Neuroma Patients," by Matthew Fitzgerald, PhD, Chief of Audiology, Stanford University

February 4, 2016: "Acoustic Neuroma Case Presentations and Panel Discussion" by Christopher Bilbao, MD, Department of Neurosurgery, and Clement Ho, MD, Department of Radiation Oncology. Moderated by Steven D. Chang, MD, Department of Neurosurgery.

December 3, 2015: "Balance Function in Acoustic Neuroma Patients" by Joyce Chadderdon, PT, NCS, Stanford University

October 1, 2015: "Myths and Facts Regarding the Management of Acoustic Neuromas" by Steven Chang, MD, Department of Neurosurgery

August 6, 2015: "Acoustic Neuroma Case Presentations and Panel Discussion" by Christopher Bilbao, MD, Department of Neurosurgery, and Scott Soltys, MD, Department of Radiation Oncology. Moderated by Steven Chang, MD, Department of Neurosurgery

June 4, 2015: "Controversies in the Diagnosis and Management of Acoustic Neuromas" by Steven Chang, MD, Professor, Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University

April 2, 2015: "The Genetics of Acoustic Neuroma" by Achal Achrol, MD, Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University

February 5, 2015: "The Advantages and Disadvantages of the Three Different Surgical Approaches for Acoustic Neuroma Surgery" by Steven Chang, MD, Professor, Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University

December 4, 2014: "Treating Balance Issues with Vestibular Therapy" by Joyce Chadderdon, PT, NCS, Senior Physical Therapist, Stanford Health Care

October 2, 2014: "Acoustic Neuroma Case Presentations and Panel Discussion" by Gordon Li, MD, Department of Neurosurgery, and John Oghalai, MD, Department of Otolaryngology. Moderated by Steven Chang, MD, Department of Neurosurgery

August 7, 2014: "How Acoustic Neuroma Pre-Treatment Symptoms Respond After Treatment" by Steven D. Chang, MD, Professor, Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University School of Medicine

June 5, 2014: "Current Status of Hearing Aids for Patients with Acoustic Neuromas", by Gerald Popelka, PhD, Department of otolaryngology, Stanford University School of Medicine

April 3, 2014: "The Role of a Neuro-oncologist in the Management of Acoustic Neuroma Patients" By Reena Thomas, MD, Department of Neurology, Stanford University School of Medicine

February 6, 2014: "Coping with the Diagnosis of Acoustic Neuroma", by Bret Schneider, MD, Psychiatrist and Consulting Assistant Professor of Neurosurgery, Stanford University

December 5, 2013: "History of Acoustic Neuroma Treatments with a Q&A", by Dr. Robert Jackler, MD, Professor, Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Stanford University.

October 3, 2013: "Acoustic Neuroma Case Presentations and Panel Discussion"

June 6, 2013: "Questions to Ask Yourself When Seeking Treatment for Your Acoustic Neuroma", by Steven Chang, MD, Professor, Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University

April 4, 2013: "Understanding Radiation: What It Is and How It Works", by Iris Gibbs, MD, Associate Professor, Department of Radiation Oncology, Stanford University School of Medicine

February 7, 2013: "Causes and Treatments for Tinnitus", by Steven D. Chang, MD, Professor, Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University School of Medicine

December 6, 2012: "Common Eye Problems and Optimal Eye Care Related to Acoustic Neuroma", by Steven D. Chang, MD, Professor, Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University School of Medicine

October 4, 2012: "Acoustic Neuroma Case Presentations and Panel Discussion", by Iris Gibbs, MD, Associate Professor of Radiation Oncology; Nikolas Blevins, MD, Professor of Otolaryngology; and Gordon Li, MD, Assisstant Professor of Neurosurgery

August 2, 2012: "Dealing with Balance through Vestibular Therapy", by Joyce Chadderdon, Vestibular Physical Therapist

June 7, 2012: "Treatments for Acoustic Neuromas - Myths and Facts Regarding the Different Options" by Steven D. Chang, MD Professor, Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University

April 5, 2012: "Anxiety, Depression, and Coping with the Diagnosis of Acoustic Neuromas" by M. Bret Schneider, MD, Diplomate, American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology

February 2, 2012: "Current Status of Hearing Aids for Acoustic Neuroma Patients" by Gerald R Popelka, PhD, Professor and Chief of Audiology, Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Stanford University

December 1, 2011: "Nutrition and Nutritional Supplementation in patients with Acoustic Neuromas" by Alison Ryan, Registered Dietitian, Stanford University Medical Center

October 6, 2011: "Causes and Treatment of Headaches in Acoustic Neuroma Patients" by Dr. Michael Leong, MD, Assistant Professor, Stanford Pain Clinic, Department of Anesthesia, Stanford

August 4, 2011: "Update from the 2011 Natational Acostic Neuroma Association Meeting, Cincinnati, Ohio" by Dr. Scott Soltys, MD, Assistant Professor, Department of Radiation Oncology, Stanford

April 7, 2011: "Controversies in Diagnosis and Management of Acoustic Neuromas" by Steven D. Chang, MD Professor Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University

February 3, 2011: "Vestibular Therapy for Management of Balance Disorders in Acoustic Neuroma Patients" by Diron Cassidy, MPT Good Samaritan Hospital

December 2, 2010: "Tinnitus in Acoustic Neuroma Patients" by John S. Oghalai, MD Associate Professor, Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Stanford University

October 7, 2010: "Hearing Tests and Hearing Aids for Acoustic Neuroma Patients" by Gerry Popelka, PhD, Stanford Audiologist

August 5, 2010: "Current Medical Literature on Acoustic Neuroma" by Scott Soltys, MD, Stanford Clinical Assistant Professor of Radiation Oncologist

June 3, 2010: "Balance Issues and Treatments in Acoustic Neuroma Patients" by Nikolas Blevins, MD, Stanford Associate Professor of Otolaryngology

April 1, 2010: "Current Treatment Modalities for Acoustic Neuroma" by Steven D. Chang, MD, Stanford Professor of Neurosurgery

This group offers a safe place with other people who may be having experiences similar to your own.  Learn more about available supportive services and how to cope. 
Made possible with support from the ALS Association Golden West Chapter.

Walk-ins welcome.

The Stanford Supportive Care Program provides free classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all neuroscience patients regardless of where they receive their care.

Our goal is to support individuals with brain injury in the mid-peninsula community. We host peer support group meetings to provide opportunities for individuals & caregivers to connect and learn from one another. We welcome individuals of all backgrounds and their friends and families.

For more information, visit ssbi.stanford.edu.

The Stanford Supportive Care Program provides free classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all neuroscience patients regardless of where they receive their care.

This group host social workshops on the weeks in between Brain Injury Peer Support meetings. In these workshops, participants are split into small groups and focus on a specific aspect of living with a brain injury.

The Stanford Supportive Care Program provides free classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all neuroscience patients regardless of where they receive their care.

Come share your story, get important medical updates, and learn about coping with symptoms and psychological changes. This group is for patients and families.

Walk-ins welcome.

The Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program provides FREE classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all cancer patients, regardless of where they receive their care.

View more classes and events at the Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program.

Open to anyone wanting to learn more about Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) surgery.

The Stanford Supportive Care Program provides free classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all neuroscience patients regardless of where they receive their care.

We help to improve the quality of life, for those affected by seizures, by supporting each other and providing access to information to increase epilepsy (seizure) awareness. Patients and/or their loved ones are welcome to attend.

Drop-ins welcome.

The Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program provides FREE classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all cancer patients, regardless of where they receive their care.

View more classes and events at the Stanford Neuroscience Supportive Care Program

If you have been diagnosed with huntington's disease and have questions or wish to explore treatment options and coping strategies with other patients and clinical experts, please join us for an upcoming group meeting.

Available by telephone. See webpage for details.

The Stanford Supportive Care Program provides free classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all neuroscience patients regardless of where they receive their care.

If you have Huntington’s disease, or are a family member or caregiver of someone with Huntington’s disease, we welcome you to join our quarterly telephone support group.  We will discuss experiences and challenges living with Huntington’s disease, provide opportunities to ask questions, and share available resources.

Registration is required.
To register, complete the online registration form below.

Available in-person: Check back for new dates.

The Stanford Supportive Care Program provides free classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all neuroscience patients regardless of where they receive their care.

Special online offering

Every Thursday
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Registration required.  To register, call or email facilitator.

This group discussion seeks to explore, learn, and grow from talking all about the “MS in the room”. You’re invited to come connect with others living with MS, in a friendly environment, where we share, discuss, and support each other’s efforts to manage our health and wellness. Guest speakers for some of the meetings include Stanford medical professionals and MS community resources. Join us, as we strategize how to live fully and live well with MS.

The Stanford Supportive Care Program provides free classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all neuroscience patients regardless of where they receive their care.

Are you caring for a loved one with a diagnosis of Mild Cognitive Impairment, Alzheimer's disease, or a related dementia? You are not alone. Join our support group to connect with others experiencing similar challenges. The group offers a safe space for peer support and to share information and learn about available resources.  
Walk-ins welcome.

The Memory Disorders Caregiver Support Group is facilitated by the Stanford Health Care Neuroscience Supportive Care Program.

Registration required.  Complete our online registration form.

The Stanford Supportive Care Program provides free classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all neuroscience patients regardless of where they receive their care.

Do you have a diagnosis of Mild Cognitive Impairment or early-stage dementia and seek a supportive environment to connect with others who share similar experiences?  This peer support group meets twice a month and provides a safe space for patients to connect with each other for support, problem-solving, and community.

The Memory Disorders Patient Support Group is facilitated by the Stanford Health Care Aging Adult Service’s Memory Support Program.

If interested, please call 650.213.6261 for more information prior to attending.

The Stanford Supportive Care Program provides free classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all neuroscience patients regardless of where they receive their care.

Join us to learn about the latest treatment options, network with other meningioma patients, and find encouragement and support. Family members, caregivers, friends and interested persons are encouraged to attend.

Registration required.  

The meetings are free of charge and co-moderated by meningioma patients. They consist of 20 minutes of speaker presentation, 20 minutes of patients' presentations of their own experiences, and open forum for discussion. Also, leading Stanford Neurosurgeon, Steven D. Chang, MD, will join for a Q&A session at the end of each meeting.

Benefits of attending a local support group include:

• Communicating in a nurturing, non-judgmental environment with others who have shared a common meningioma experience.
• Sharing information on dealing with specific problems, overcoming handicaps, and reassuring others that better times lie ahead.
• Educating and informing each other about the latest meningioma topics of interest.
• Providing emotional support to all patients, both pre- and post-treatment.

Past Talks:

December 4, 2019: Cancelled

September 4, 2019: "Coping with the diagnosis of a Meningioma​", by Bret Schneider, MD, Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University School of Medicine

March 6, 2019: "Different Radiation Options for Meningiomas" by Antonio Meola, MD, Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University.

December 6, 2018: "How to manage symptoms and side effects related to meningiomas and their treatment" by Steven Chang, MD, Professor, Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University School of Medicine

September 6, 2018: Canceled

June 7, 2018: "Tricks and techniques to managing meningiomas in difficult locations", by Steven Chang, MD, Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University School of Medicine

December 7, 2017: "Headaches and seizures in meningioma patients: Presenting symptoms and Management strategies"    by Steven Chang, MD, Professor, Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford Neurosurgery

June 1, 2017: "Meningioma Case Presentations and Panel Discussion" by Steven Chang, MD and Geoffrey Appelboom, MD, Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University

December 1, 2016: "New Developments on the Treatment of Meningiomas - News and Results from the 10th International Congress on Meningiomas, June 2016" by Steven D. Chang, MD Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University

September 1, 2016: "New Advances in Radiosurgery for Meningiomas" by Geoffrey Appelboom, MD, Stanford University

June 2, 2016: "What causes Meningiomas to develop in the first place?" by Steven Chang, MD Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University

March 3, 2016: Meningioma Case Presentations and Panel Discussions" by Clem Ho MD, Stanford Radiation Oncology, and Christopher Bilbao, DO, Stanford Neurosurgery. Moderated by Steven Chang, MD, Professor of Neurosurgery, Stanford University School of Medicine

Nov. 5, 2015: "Treatment Options for Memory Loss and Cognitive Problems due to Meningiomas" by Steven D. Chang, MD, Professor, Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University School of Medicine

July 9, 2015: "What Does it Mean When You Have Multiple Meningiomas?" by Steven D. Chang, MD, Professor, Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University School of Medicine

May 7, 2015: "The Genetics of Meningioma" by Achal Achrol, MD, Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University 

March 5, 2015: "Meningioma Case Presentations and Panel Discussions" by Patrick Swift, MD, Clinical Professor of Radiation Oncology, and Gordon Li, MD, Assistant Professor of Neurosurgery. Moderated by Steven Chang, MD, Professor of Neurosurgery, Stanford University School of Medicine

January 8, 2015: "Managing Dizziness and Balance in Patients With Meningiomas" by Diron Cassidy, Vortex Physical Therapy

November 6, 2014: "Surgical and Nonsurgical Advances for the Treatment of Meningiomas and Other Brain Tumors" by Steven D. Chang, MD, Professor, Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University School of Medicine

September 4, 2014: "When meningiomas turn bad: What does it mean to have an atypical or malignant meningioma?" by Steven D. Chang, MD, Professor of Neurosurgery, Stanford University School of Medicine

July 10, 2014: "How hormones can influence meningioma growth, symptoms, and patient well being" by Lawrence Katznelson, MD, Professor, Department of Neurosurgery and Endocrinology, Stanford University School of Medicine

May 1, 2014: "The role of a neuro-oncologist in the management of meningioma patients" by Reena Thomas, MD, Department of Neurology, Stanford University School of Medicine

March 6, 2014: "Meningioma Case Presenations and Panel Discussion, Including endoscopic surgical approaches" by Jayakar Nayak, MD, Assistant Professor, Department of Otolaryngology; Gordon Li, MD, Assistant Professor, Department of Neurosurgery; Steven Chang, MD, Professor, Department of Neurosurgery

November 7, 2013: "Management of Headaches in Meningioma Patients" by Sheena Aurora, MD, Department of Neurology, Stanford University School of Medicine

September 5, 2013: "Which meningiomas should not be treated" by Steven D. Chang, MD, Professor, Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University School of Medicine

July 11, 2013: "Meningiomas and Seizures: How to identify and treat seizures in meningioma patients" by George Nune, MD, Department of Neurology, Stanford University School of Medicine

May 2, 2013: A live tour of the Cyberknife at Stanford, followed by a discussion of the "Appropriate uses of radiosurgery for the treatment of meningioma" by Steven D. Chang, MD, Professor of Neurosurgery, Stanford University

March 7, 2013: "Common Eye Problems and Optimal Eye Care Related to Meningiomas and their treatment" by Steven D. Chang, MD, Professor, Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University School of Medicine

January 10, 2013: "New Developments on the Treatment of Meningiomas - News and Results from the 8th International Congress on Meningiomas, November 2012", by Steven D. Chang, MD, Professor, Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University School of Medicine

November 1, 2012: "Meningioma Case Presentations and Panel Discussion" by Iris Gibbs, MD, Associate Professor of Radiation Oncology; Gordon Li, MD, Assisstant Professor of Neurosurgery; and Steven D. Chang, MD, Professor, Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford 

September 6, 2012: "Hormones and their influence on Meningioma prevention and treatment" by Steven D. Chang, MD, Professor, Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford July 12, 2012: "Anxiety, depression, and coping with the diagnosis of Meningiomas" by Bret Schneider, MD, Consulting Associate Professor, Department of Psychiatry and Neurosurgery, Stanford

May 3, 2012: "Radiation for meningiomas - a discussion of the various types of radiation used to treat brain and spine meningiomas" by Iris Gibbs, MD, Associate Professor, Radiation Oncologist, Stanford

March 1, 2012: "Vestibular Therapy for Management of Balance Disorders in Meningioma Patients - How to treat balance problems and prevent them from returning” by Diron Cassidy, MPT, Physical Therapist, Vortex Physical Therapy and Balance

January 5, 2012: "Management of pretreatment and posttreatment headaches and seizures in meningioma patient" by Dr. Steven Chang, MD, Professor, Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford

November 3, 2011: "Nutrition and Nutritional Supplementation in patients with Meningiomas" by Erika Connor, Registered Dietitian, Stanford University Medical Center

September 1, 2011: "Meningiomas- epidemiology, symptoms, and treatment options" by Dr. Steven Chang, MD, Professor, Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford

The Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program provides FREE classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all cancer patients, regardless of where they receive their care.

View more classes and events at the Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program »

The Moyamoya Peer 2 Peer Mentoring Program offers trained, experienced peer mentors to talk with patients and caregivers about their experiences.  Contact can be in person, via phone, text, or email, and frequency depends on your comfort level.  All mentors are Stanford volunteers who have been through similar treatment.  They have completed training on privacy, navigating the health care system, and how to support others. They have also all completed health screenings and background checks to ensure safety of participants.

For more information, contact your social worker or program coordinator Morgan Gross at 650.474.1011 or MoGross@stanfordhealthcare.org.

The Stanford Supportive Care Program provides free classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all neuroscience patients regardless of where they receive their care.

A meeting for those living with MG and their loved ones. A welcoming place to discuss care management techniques, new drugs, clinical trials, and living life to the fullest.

The Stanford Supportive Care Program provides free classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all neuroscience patients regardless of where they receive their care.

The following support groups are open to Parkinson's and Parkinsonism (LBD, PSP, MSA, CBD) caregivers only and are facilitated by a social worker. Please RSVP one day in advance of each meeting so that we can keep the group size small to facilitate discussion.

Registration is required.

To join the meeting reminder email list, go to: http://parkinsons.stanford.edu/mailing_list.html

LOCATIONS
No in-person group until further notice.

The Stanford Supportive Care Program provides free classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all neuroscience patients regardless of where they receive their care.

This group is open to anyone interested in learning about Parkinson's. No RSVP is required. The group usually has an expert presenter speaking about an aspect of Parkinson's (diagnosis, treatment options, motor and non-motor symptoms, exercise, etc.) and occasionally has a member discussion-focused meeting.

The Stanford Supportive Care Program provides free classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all neuroscience patients regardless of where they receive their care.

Open to anyone diagnosed with Parkinson's before age 50. The group has frequent expert presenters and occasional group discussion.

Please call before attending for the first time.

The Stanford Supportive Care Program provides free classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all neuroscience patients regardless of where they receive their care.

Peer Support for stroke or brain injury patients and their caregivers

Smart Patients provides a secure, supportive online community where those affected by illness can connect, share questions and concerns, learn from each other and benefit from online peer support. 

The Stanford Supportive Care Program provides free classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all neuroscience patients regardless of where they receive their care.

Please join us for a friendly and supportive environment for stroke patients, their family and caregivers. This support group, in partnership with the Pacific Stroke Association, will have guest speakers every other month, focusing on a holistic approach to provide wellness to the stroke community.

If you are interested in attending one or more of these presentations, please register by calling 650-721-8500.

The Stanford Supportive Care Program provides free classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all neuroscience patients regardless of where they receive their care.

For those who suffer from trigeminal neuralgia, you are not alone! Please join us at Stanford to learn about the new treatment options and to share your experience with others going through similar situations.

If you have been diagnosed with trigeminal neuralgia and have questions or wish to explore treatment options and coping strategies with other patients and clinical experts, please join us for upcoming Stanford Trigeminal Neuralgia Support Group meetings.

The meetings are free of charge and are a great resource for patient and family education. The meetings consist of 20 minutes speaker presentation, 20 minutes patients' presentations of their own experiences, and open forum for discussion. Also, leading Stanford Neurosurgeon, Steven D. Chang, MD, will join for a Q&A session at the end of each meeting.

Past Talks:

February 27, 2019: "Experiencing new onset of facial pain symptoms? Know the facts of the different types of facial pain before making a decision for any surgical procedures", by Steven Chang, MD.  Professor of Neurosurgery, Stanford University. Co-Director, Stanford Orofacial Pain Program, Stanford University School of Medicine

November 14, 2018: When drug therapy fails, minimally invasive interventional pain therapies are possible options." by Xiang Qian, MD, Clinical Associate Professor of Anesthesiology, Preoperative and Pain Medicine, Co-Director, Stanford Orofacial Pain Program, Stanford University School of Medicine

August 15, 2018: Medical Management of Trigeminal Neuralgia by Meredith Barad, MD, Headache & Facial Pain Specialist

May 16, 2018: Thermal Ablation Treatments for Trigeminal Neuralgia and Facial Pain" by Xiang Qian, MD, Clinical Associate Professor of Anesthesiology, Preoperative and Pain Medicine, Co-Director, Stanford Orofacial Pain Program, Stanford University School of Medicine

February 21, 2018: Vascular Causes of Facial Pain: Glossopharyngeal, Trigeminal, and Geniculate Neuralgia" by Steven Chang, MD, Professor of Neurosurgery, Stanford University School of Medicine

August 23, 2017: "How Different Facial Pain Symptoms Determine Treatment Success Rates" by Steven Chang, MD - Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University School of Medicine

May 10, 2017: "Coping with the diagnosis of Trigeminal Neuralgia" by M. Bret Schneider, MD, Diplomate, American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology

February 8, 2017: "Overview of Trigeminal Neuralgia Medications" by Niushen Zhang, MD, Dept. of Neurology, Stanford University

August 25, 2016: "Non-surgical procedures for facial pain" by Xiang Qian, MD, PhD, Clinical Assistant Professor, Pain Medicine Division, Associate Medical Director, International Medical Services

May 11, 2016: "Percutaneous treatments for Trigeminal Neuralgia" by Xiang Qian, MD, PhD, Clinical Assistant Professor, Pain Medicine Division, Associate Medical Director, International Medical Services

February 17, 2016: "Classification of 7 Face Pain Types," by Steven Chang, MD, Professor of Neurosurgery, Stanford University School of Medicine

October 14, 2015: "What Causes the Pain in the Trigeminal Nerve, and How the Different Treatment Options for Trigeminal Neuralgia Work" by Steven D. Chang, MD, Professor of Neurosurgery, Stanford University School of Medicine

August 12, 2015: "Surgical Options for Facial Pain Syndromes" by Casey Halpren, MD, Assistant Professor of Neurosurgery and, by courtesy, of Neurology and Neurological Sciences and Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences Stanford University Medical Center

June 10, 2015: "How Previous Procedures for Trigeminal Neuralgia Impact the Success of Second Procedures" by Steven D. Chang, MD, Professor of Neurosurgery, Stanford University School of Medicine

April 8, 2015: "Medical Management of Trigeminal Neuralgia" by Meredith Barad, MD, Clinical Assistant Professor of Anesthesia and Neurology & Neurological Sciences

February 18, 2015: "Treatment of Trigeminal Neuralgia using Radiosurgery" by Steven D. Chang, MD, Professor of Neurosurgery

October 8, 2014: "Management of Trigeminal Neuralgia with Medications" by Robert Cowan, MD, FAAN, Professor of Neurology & Neurological Sciences

August 13, 2014: "The Seven Types of Facial Pain" by Steven D. Chang, MD, Professor of Neurosurgery

June 11, 2014: "Innovative Injection Therapies for TN Face Pain" by Dr. Xiang Qian, and “Behavioral Management Strategies for Chronic Pain” by Theresa Mallick-Searle, MS, ANP-BC.

February 12, 2014: "Overview of Facial Pain Program"

October 9, 2013: "Novel Treatments of Trigeminal Neuralgia and Facial Pain" by Jamie Henderson, MD, Associate Professor of Neurosurgery

August 14, 2013: "Anxiety, Depression, and Coping with the Diagnosis of Trigeminal Neuralgia" by Bret Schneider, MD, Psychiatrist and Consulting Assistant Professor of Neurosurgery

June 12, 2013: "Management of Facial Pain" by Robert Cowan, MD, Professor of Neurology

April 10, 2013: "Classification of 7 Face Pain types" by Steven Chang, MD, Professor of Neurosurgery

November 15, 2012: "Facial Pain" by Steven Chang, MD, Professor of Neurosurgery