FOUNDER & CHIEF MEDICAL OFFICER
DR. MICHAEL S. TRAYFORD
Dr. Michael S. Trayford is a Board Certified Chiropractic Neurologist and Neurofeedback Specialist with over 20 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.
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 multiple communities through Rotary International and 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
ASSOCIATE | LEAD CLINICIAN
DR. HENRY ZAREMBA
Dr. Henry Zaremba (or Dr. Z if you like) is a board-certified chiropractic neurologist with over three years of experience as the lead clinician at a top brain rehabilitation clinic. With over 500 hours of postdoctoral studies in clinical neuroscience and hundreds of patients treated, Dr. Zaremba is skilled at activating the brain’s ability to recover and become more optimal.
Dr. Zaremba’s specialized training includes diagnosing and treating brain, spine, and nervous disorders without medication or surgery. His extensive experience treating patients recovering from traumatic brain injury, addiction, cognitive decline, and those seeking peak performance make him a perfect fit for APEX Brain Centers.
As an exercise and sport science, graduate and collegiate ice hockey player at UNC-Chapel Hill, Dr. Zaremba’s personal experience with concussions sparked a deep interest in traumatic brain injuries and set him on his career path. He completed his postgraduate training at Palmer Chiropractic College, earning his Doctor of Chiropractic degree.
When not treating patients, Dr. Zaremba enjoys spending time hiking, rock climbing, or practicing yoga with his wife and 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 | DIAGNOSTIC TECHNICIAN
AMBER NUCKOLS
Amber Nuckols was born and raised in Northern Utah, and has lived in Texas and Virginia since marrying her husband who recently retired from the military. They chose to settle here in Asheville with their two Labrador retrievers (Rusty & Bruce) and their cat (Mae) to be in the beautiful Blue Ridge mountains where they can enjoy their outdoor lifestyle.
She has been interested in Health and Wellness most of her life, which lead her to obtain her Personal Training Certification through the National Academy of Sport Medicine, specializing in Corrective Exercise. She also holds a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Phoenix in Healthcare Administration, concentrating in Long-Term Care.
Amber is passionate about helping others. While in Virginia, she was a volunteer for Meals on Wheels, delivering meals to the elderly while spending a little extra time with those who seemed lonely. She is delighted to be a part of the team here at APEX Brain Centers where she can assist in the care of patients, helping them improve their lives.
During her spare time, Amber enjoys hiking, kayaking, teaching others about fitness, and spending time with her little family. She also enjoys reading and furthering her education on anatomy and physiology.
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