Welcome to APEX Brain Centers, your resource for expert neurological rehabilitation in the Asheville area. 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 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.
Functional Neurologist Asheville NC
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
Crystal Coffie
After several injuries, Crystal started researching how to heal her brain and be at her peak performance. She heard about APEX Brain Centers and dove headfirst into learning about the many therapies offered.
Shortly after, she was admittedly blessed to learn about an opening for a Clinical Assistant. After much soul searching, she decided to leave her career of almost 20 years working in veterinary medicine to come to APEX and help people heal.
“I feel most fortunate to work alongside these amazing doctors and people doing good in my community and abroad”.
Her favorite activities are snowboarding with her husband, hiking in the mountains with her 2 dogs, snuggling and playing with her cat, and spending quality time with her family.
See if APEX Can Help
Schedule a free, confidential consultation with one of our board-certified physicians.