Finding the right occupational therapy practice for neurological rehabilitation can feel overwhelming. You need a provider who understands the nuances of stroke, brain injury, and progressive conditions — and who will work one-on-one with you to rebuild independence. We've researched
The Rise of Private Neuro Rehab in the Bay Area
The San Francisco Bay Area is home to a growing number of private occupational therapy practices specializing in adult neurological rehabilitation. These small-to-mid-size clinics offer a stark contrast to large hospital systems: you get personalized, one-on-one care that's tailored to your unique goals. Whether you're recovering from a stroke, brain injury, or managing a progressive condition like Parkinson's, these practices focus on functional, evidence-based interventions to restore independence. Most operate on a private-pay or out-of-network basis, which allows for longer sessions and more flexible scheduling. This niche is distinct from pediatric OT or general outpatient therapy, and it's gaining traction among patients who want dedicated attention and measurable progress.
How We Ranked the Best Neuro Rehab Practices
We evaluated each practice based on five key factors: specialization in adult neuro rehab (stroke, TBI, progressive conditions), level of personalization (one-on-one vs. group or multidisciplinary), evidence-based approach, transparency of pricing and services, and geographic accessibility (in-person Bay Area plus virtual options). We also considered the therapist's credentials and years of experience. The goal was to highlight practices that deliver real, functional outcomes for adults navigating neurological recovery.
Here's a quick comparison of the five practices to help you narrow down your options.
| Provider | Best For | Pricing |
|---|---|---|
| Centre for Neuro Skills | Intensive, multidisciplinary neuro rehab for TBI and acquired brain injury | Not listed on site. Insurance-based and private pay options available. |
| NeuroLab 360 | Advanced technology-driven neuro rehab for stroke, brain injury, and Parkinson's | Not listed on site. Appears to be private pay / out-of-pocket based on client testimonials. |
| Bay Area Brain Injury | Cognitive rehab for high-functioning TBI survivors, with virtual options | Evaluations $250+; sessions $100/45min in-person, $75/45min virtual; subscriptions $50-$450/month |
| Alanna Aguirre, OTR/L | Personalized one-on-one neuro rehab for stroke, brain injury, and progressive conditions | Not listed on site. Private pay practice. |
| Holistic Life Skills | Holistic, one-on-one OT for brain injury and stroke recovery | Not listed on site. Private pay practice. |
Detailed Reviews of Each Neuro Rehab Practice
#1 Centre for Neuro Skills
A screenshot of the Centre for Neuro Skills website.
Centre for Neuro Skills (CNS) operates an inpatient neuro rehab program in San Francisco that serves patients with traumatic brain injury and acquired brain injury. As a larger organization with multiple locations, CNS brings extensive resources and a multidisciplinary team to your recovery. Their San Francisco site offers occupational therapy alongside physical, speech, and cognitive therapies in a structured environment. You benefit from decades of experience and a research-backed approach to functional rehabilitation. CNS accepts insurance and private pay, making it accessible for many families. If you need intensive, coordinated care, this is a strong option.
Quick Comparison:
- Pro: Large organization with extensive resources and a multidisciplinary team.
- Con: Less personalized one-on-one attention compared to smaller private practices.
- Pricing: Not listed on site. Insurance-based and private pay options available.
#2 NeuroLab 360
A screenshot of the NeuroLab 360 website.
NeuroLab 360 is a California-based non-profit rehabilitation center that provides highly specialized one-on-one physical and occupational therapy for neurological conditions. Their evidence-based, personalized care model incorporates advanced technology like robotics and virtual reality to enhance motor recovery. You'll work directly with experienced therapists who design interventions around your specific goals. The center focuses on stroke, brain injury, Parkinson's, and other progressive conditions. Client testimonials highlight the transformative impact of their intensive, self-pay model. If you're seeking cutting-edge tools and a dedicated therapist, NeuroLab 360 stands out.
Quick Comparison:
- Pro: Uses advanced technology like robotics and VR for motor recovery.
- Con: Non-profit status may limit availability and requires self-pay.
- Pricing: Not listed on site. Appears to be private pay / out-of-pocket based on client testimonials.
#3 Bay Area Brain Injury
A screenshot of the Bay Area Brain Injury website.
Bay Area Brain Injury is a private OT cognitive rehabilitation practice led by Sarah Cook, OTR/L, who brings over 15 years of experience. The practice specializes in TBI cognitive rehab for high-functioning individuals, offering both in-person sessions in the San Francisco Bay Area and virtual appointments worldwide. You'll receive personalized, evidence-based interventions that target memory, attention, executive function, and daily living skills. Pricing is transparent: evaluations start at $250, sessions are $100 for 45 minutes in-person or $75 virtually, and subscription plans range from $50 to $450 per month. This makes it a flexible option for ongoing cognitive support.
Quick Comparison:
- Pro: Transparent pricing and flexible virtual sessions for ongoing cognitive rehab.
- Con: Focuses primarily on cognitive rehab, not full-spectrum OT for physical or functional skills.
- Pricing: Evaluations $250+; sessions $100/45min in-person, $75/45min virtual; subscriptions $50-$450/month
#4 Alanna Aguirre, OTR/L
A screenshot of the Alanna Aguirre, OTR/L website.
Alanna Aguirre runs a private occupational therapy practice focused on adult neuro rehabilitation in the Bay Area. Her site highlights personalized, evidence-based care for stroke, brain injury, and progressive neurological conditions. You'll work one-on-one with Alanna, who tailors functional, performance-based interventions to your specific goals. The practice emphasizes restoring independence in daily life through client-centered approaches. While the website clearly communicates her credentials and philosophy, it lacks transparent pricing and detailed service descriptions. For a dedicated, boutique experience with a skilled therapist, Alanna's practice is a solid choice.
Quick Comparison:
- Pro: Highly personalized, one-on-one care from a dedicated OTR/L with a neuro focus.
- Con: Limited online information and no transparent pricing.
- Pricing: Not listed on site. Private pay practice.
#5 Holistic Life Skills
A screenshot of the Holistic Life Skills website.
Holistic Life Skills is a private OT practice founded by Jacki, an OTR/L and Certified Brain Injury Specialist (CBIS). The practice focuses on one-on-one occupational therapy for brain injury and stroke recovery, serving the Bay Area both in-person and virtually. You'll receive personalized, evidence-based care that addresses cognitive, physical, and emotional aspects of recovery. The solo practice model ensures consistent attention from the same therapist throughout your journey. Pricing is not listed on the site, and the practice operates on a private-pay basis. If you value a holistic, relationship-driven approach, this is worth exploring.
Quick Comparison:
- Pro: Consistent therapist relationship with a CBIS-certified practitioner.
- Con: No pricing transparency and limited online presence.
- Pricing: Not listed on site. Private pay practice.
How to Pick the Right Neuro Rehab Practice for You
Start by identifying your primary needs: are you looking for cognitive rehab, physical recovery, or a combination? If you need intensive multidisciplinary care, Centre for Neuro Skills offers a hospital-like setting. For cutting-edge technology, NeuroLab 360 is a standout. If you prefer a small, personalized practice with transparent pricing, Bay Area Brain Injury is a strong choice. For a dedicated one-on-one therapist who designs interventions around your goals, consider Alanna Aguirre or Holistic Life Skills. Always ask about the therapist's experience with your specific condition, session length, and whether they offer virtual sessions. And don't hesitate to request a free consultation to see if the approach feels right.
Streamline Your Recovery Journey
Integrating therapy into your daily routine can accelerate progress. Start by setting clear, measurable goals with your therapist — like returning to cooking or walking to the store. Use a simple habit tracker app to log daily exercises or cognitive drills. Many practices offer home exercise programs via video; record yourself to review form with your therapist. Automate reminders for medication, appointments, and practice sessions using your phone's calendar. Finally, sync your progress notes with your therapist through a shared document or portal to keep everyone aligned. Small, consistent steps add up to big functional gains.
Your Next Step Toward Independence
Choosing the right neuro rehab practice is a personal decision that depends on your condition, goals, and budget. The Bay Area offers a wealth of private OT options that prioritize your individual recovery. Whether you opt for the high-tech environment of NeuroLab 360, the cognitive focus of Bay Area Brain Injury, or the personalized touch of Alanna Aguirre, you're investing in a future with more independence. Take the time to visit websites, read about each therapist's approach, and schedule a consultation. Your recovery journey is unique — make sure your therapy team reflects that.