Welcome to APEX Brain Centers, your resource for expert neurological rehabilitation in the Asheville are aand beyond. Our team of distinguished neurology specialists focus on providing comprehensive care to address the needs of individuals with neurological conditions. Leveraging over two decades of experience in advanced functional neurology, our specialists employ innovative, research-based methods to enhance brain performance and recovery. Whether you're facing challenges with brain injuries, cognitive decline, learning and behavioral disorders, or seeking peak mental and physical performance, our Asheville-based team is here to offer tailored, state-of-the-art neurological care. Discover how our commitment to neuroplasticity and patient-centered approaches sets us apart as the leading neurology specialists in Asheville.
Expertise & Credentials
- Founder/Director of Clinical Operations – APEX Brain Centers (2013-Present) – TBI, cognitive decline, peak performance
- Board Certification in Neurology (2001) - American Chiropractic Neurology Board
- Board-Certified in Neurofeedback (2019) – BCIA..
- Adjunct Faculty, Palmer College (2019-Present) – Mentor clinician.
- International Speaker & Researcher (2024-Present) – Neuroregulation, laser therapy, brain rehab.
- ISNR Lecturer (2022) – qEEG insights on hyperbaric oxygen & laser therapy.
- Movement Presenter (2019), Tel Aviv University – Cognitive outcomes in post-concussion syndrome.
- Institute for Functional Medicine (2001-Present) – Clinical nutrition & metabolic therapies.
- Board-Certified in Neurology (2001) – Carrick Institute.
Functional Neurologist Asheville NC
FOUNDER | CHIEF MEDICAL OFFICER
DR. MICHAEL S. TRAYFORD, BS, DC, DACNB, BCN
Dr. Michael S. Trayford is a Board Certified Chiropractic Neurologist and Neurofeedback Specialist with over 25 years of experience in the practice of advanced functional neurology. He is one of the most highly sought-after brain rehabilitation specialists because of the life-changing outcomes his patients consistently experience.
Dr. Trayford earned his Bachelor of Science in Biology and Physics from the State University of New York (SUNY) in 1994 and his Doctor of Chiropractic degree from New York Chiropractic College in 1998. He later completed postgraduate studies in Clinical Neuroscience and Rehabilitation through the Carrick Institute, achieving board certification (DACNB) in 2002. In 2019, he earned board certification and associate fellowship in Neurofeedback through the Biofeedback Certification International Alliance. He remains dedicated to ongoing education through leading institutions in functional medicine, neuroscience, and neuroregulation.
After over a decade in private practice and working alongside other pioneers in the field, Dr. Trayford developed his multimodal intensive brain training and rehabilitation program built around the science of Neuroplasticity – the ability of the brain to learn and grow dependent upon the stimulation it receives from its environment. He later founded APEX Brain Centers to combine his ground-breaking rehabilitation approach with a unique patient and caretaker-centered care model. Under Dr. Trayford’s leadership, APEX Brain Centers has successfully treated thousands of patients and earned the reputation of a world-renowned brain training and rehabilitation practice.
Since its inception, Dr. Trayford has been a leader of the Brain Training revolution treating patients worldwide. In addition, he is a published journal contributor and international lecturer. His experience with various patients of all ages and neurological conditions has given him a unique perspective on brain health and human performance. He is also well-versed in collaborating with other health care professionals, making him an invaluable asset to any care team.
Dr. Trayford was awarded the Functional Neurologist of the Year distinction by the International Association of Functional Neurology and Rehabilitation, where he is a proud member and conference lecturer. Currently, he serves on the Advisory Council for the Dementia Society of America and the Board of Directors for the International Society for Neuroregulation and Research. He is also a servant leader who has dedicated his adult life to serving local and international communities through the Rotary Club of Asheville, and sits on their foundation board, among other notable causes.
When he’s not treating patients, Dr. Trayford usually reads or researches anything related to the brain, human performance, and leadership. He also loves spending time outdoors with his wife Denise, their two daughters, and dogs in the beautiful mountains of western North Carolina and the Sea Islands of South Carolina.
FUNCTIONAL NEUROLOGY ASSOCIATE | LEAD CLINICIAN
DR. HENRY ZAREMBA, DC, DIBCN, FIACN
Dr. Henry Zaremba is a board-certified chiropractic neurologist dedicated to helping patients recover from neurological conditions and improve their overall well-being. His passion for this field stems from a personal experience with a concussion during his senior year at UNC Chapel Hill, where he majored in Exercise and Sport Science and served as a captain of the ice hockey team. That injury gave him firsthand insight into the struggles of brain injuries—an experience that fuels his empathy and commitment to his patients today.
Following his undergraduate studies, Dr. Zaremba earned his Doctor of Chiropractic degree from Palmer College of Chiropractic – Florida Campus, graduating cum laude. He then pursued advanced training in clinical neuroscience, earning board certification through the International Board of Chiropractic Neurology (DIBCN). His dedication to the field has been recognized with the prestigious title of Fellow of the International Academy of Chiropractic Neurology (FIACN), honoring his contributions to the profession.
Beyond his clinical work, Dr. Zaremba is an active speaker and advocate for brain health. He frequently gives community health talks on proper concussion care and brain wellness, educating the public on the importance of neurological health. He has also been a featured guest on numerous podcasts and is a contributing author for the local newspaper, sharing his expertise on cognitive neuroscience, metabolic health, and brain wellness.
Dr. Zaremba is deeply involved in his local community and is a proud member of the Asheville Breakfast Rotary Club, where he serves as the Coins for Alzheimer's Research Trust (CART) chair for his chapter.
Originally from Raleigh, NC, he is honored to serve those suffering from brain-related disorders in the Western North Carolina community and beyond. When he’s not in the clinic, he enjoys spending time with his wife, Dr. Katie Zaremba, their daughter, and their two dogs.
DIAGNOSTIC TESTING | OFFICE MANAGER
DR. DENISE M. TRAYFORD
Dr. Denise Trayford spent many years in integrative health care settings in both New York and Boston working hand in hand with providers from both the traditional and complementary medicine arenas. Being able to bridge the gap between these worlds has given her the ability to relate to clients with virtually any type of health care concern, ensuring their voices are heard and their health care needs are met.
Her undergraduate training in exercise physiology and post-graduate training as Doctor of Chiropractic have given her the unique opportunity to work with clients on a one-to-one basis providing encouragement and constant guidance to assist them in meeting their individual health performance goals and objectives.
In her current role, she directs performance of all neurophysiological testing applications in a safe, friendly environment; which, in turn, direct the individualized treatment programs at APEX Brain Centers.
In her spare time, Dr. Trayford enjoys quality time with her two daughters and dog Titus, camping with the family, travel, and photography in the beautiful mountains of Western North Carolina she calls home.
ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT | PATIENT ADVOCATE
TRACI TURPIN
Traci Turpin grew up in the Smoky Mountains of Western North Carolina. She holds a degree in substance abuse treatment and has worked in the health care community for over 20 years; most recently in the administrative aspects of a large post-acute rehabilitation facility.
Having worked with various patient populations and having served in many roles, Traci has a keen awareness of the care continuum from both the clinic’s and the patient’s perspective. She believes a key part of the healing process is the patient having an active and informed role in their recovery.
Traci enjoys live music and traveling to different cities where she can immerse herself in the sights and sounds of each new place.
While the Smokies will always be home for Traci, she is naturally drawn to the sea.
CLINICAL ASSISTANT
Shaianne Riley
The mountains have always been home for Shaianne. Growing up in a small town, she learned the value of community and connection early on.
A certified medical assistant since 2016, she takes pride in providing compassionate, patient-centered care. Being personable, empathetic, and understanding is at the heart of her work, and she strives to create the best outcomes in every situation.
Outside of work, you’ll often find her outdoors, staying active in the community, or spending time with the people closest to her.
Helping others, whether in the clinic or out in the world, is what truly drives her.
ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT | PATIENT ADVOCATE
Brooke Burrows
Brooke grew up in the Adirondack Mountains of Upstate New York. She graduated from Utica University with a degree in Health Studies Management. She has worked in health and human services for over 12 years and also worked as an analyst in aerospace engineering.
Due to her background working with varying populations, she strongly believes in person-centered care planning.
Brooke has also graduated from Leadership ARC and The Center for Leadership Excellence.
Brooke enjoys exploring her new surroundings in Western North Carolina with her partner and their dog, Buster.
See if APEX Can Help
Schedule a free, confidential consultation with one of our board-certified physicians.