At Amen Clinics Atlanta Metro Area, SPECT is used as part of a whole-body approach to help uncover underlying factors that may be contributing to symptoms and guide more personalized care.
Medically Reviewed By Amar Chakra, MD
Brain SPECT Imaging in Atlanta for Brain-Based Mental Health Evaluation
Many people in Atlanta seek help for anxiety, depression, ADHD, memory problems, or other mental health concerns, yet still feel unsure why they’re struggling or why they aren’t responding to standard treatment. Brain SPECT imaging in Atlanta can help provide answers.
Based on more than 35 years of clinical practice and roughly 300,000 SPECT scans, Amen Clinics has found that mental health conditions are not character flaws or signs of personal weakness. They are brain health issues. That’s why we use single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) at Amen Clinics Atlanta Metro Area as part of a comprehensive evaluation designed to provide a more complete picture of what may be contributing to emotional, cognitive, and behavioral issues.
Combined with a detailed clinical history, neuropsychological testing, and physician evaluation, these insights can help guide more personalized care.
At Amen Clinics Atlanta Metro Area, brain SPECT imaging is one of several tools we use as part of our whole-body approach, so we can create a targeted plan to support better brain health, mental health, and overall well-being.
What Is a Brain SPECT Scan?
SPECT is a nuclear medicine imaging technology that measures blood flow and activity patterns in the brain. It provides insights that can help clinicians evaluate and guide treatment for emotional, cognitive, and behavioral concerns.
SPECT scans can help uncover underlying factors that may be contributing to mental health symptoms. They reveal areas of the brain with:
- Healthy activity
- Underactivity (lower blood flow)
- Overactivity (higher-than-expected blood flow)
Because brain blood flow is closely connected to brain function, SPECT imaging can provide important information about factors that may be influencing mental health and behavior.
The healthy brain SPECT scan shows full, even symmetrical activity. The ADHD brain scan, taken during a concentration task, reveals low blood flow in the prefrontal cortex, a brain region involved in attention, planning, and judgment.
SPECT differs from other common imaging technologies, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT).
- MRI/CT
- Structural imaging tools that show the brain’s anatomy and can help identify tumors, bleeding, blood clots, and other physical abnormalities
- SPECT
- Functional imaging tool that shows how the brain is working by measuring blood flow and activity patterns
SPECT is supported by a substantial body of scientific research, including more than 16,000 abstracts indexed on PubMed. Since the 1970s, it has been used to evaluate conditions such as strokes, seizures, and brain tumors.
Researchers have also studied its applications in Alzheimer’s disease, depression, ADHD, traumatic brain injury (TBI), substance use disorders, schizophrenia, and other neurological and psychiatric conditions. In 2021, the Canadian Association of Nuclear Medicine unanimously endorsed the use of SPECT for evaluating neuropsychiatric disorders, among other applications.
Today, clinicians and researchers continue to use SPECT imaging to investigate a broad range of conditions, including toxic exposures, Lyme disease, brain inflammation, and medication-related brain changes.
Can a SPECT Scan Help With Psychiatric Diagnosis in Atlanta?
Many people searching for a SPECT scan for psychiatric diagnosis in Atlanta want to understand why they are experiencing symptoms and whether brain imaging can provide additional answers. While SPECT is not a standalone tool for diagnosing mental illness, it can provide valuable information that supports a more comprehensive evaluation.
At Amen Clinics Atlanta, SPECT is used alongside a detailed clinical history, neuropsychological testing, physician evaluation, and other relevant health information. This broader approach helps us better understand how the brain is functioning and identify factors that may be contributing to symptoms. Advanced tools like brain imaging can give clinicians additional information to help support more accurate diagnosis and more personalized treatment planning.
For example, SPECT scans can help:
- Identify patterns related to subtypes of mental health conditions
- Detect signs of hidden head injuries or toxic exposure
- Understand how your brain functions under stress
- Personalize your treatment plan for the best results
In a 2012 study, seven psychiatrists reviewed 109 medical charts, both with and without brain SPECT scans. In nearly eight out of 10 cases, adding the brain scan changed the diagnosis and/or treatment. In more than one in five cases, the scan revealed a previously unknown brain injury. In another one in five, unexpected toxicity was identified. In 60 percent of cases, the SPECT findings changed the medications or supplements recommended as part of treatment.
At Amen Clinics, the goal is not to diagnose a condition based solely on a scan. Instead, brain SPECT imaging is used as one component of a thorough evaluation designed to help uncover the factors that may be affecting brain health and overall well-being.
Why Brain Function Matters When Symptoms Look Similar
Understanding brain function is critical because many mental health conditions share overlapping symptoms, such as depression, anxiety, difficulty concentrating, irritability, and trouble with sleep.
Many mental health evaluations rely primarily on symptom checklists, patient interviews, and a relatively brief appointment. While these tools can be valuable, they don’t always explain why a person is experiencing symptoms or why certain treatments work for some people but not others.
At Amen Clinics Atlanta, we start with a different premise: mental health is brain health. Rather than focusing solely on symptoms, we seek to better understand how the brain is functioning and what factors may be contributing to emotional, cognitive, or behavioral challenges.
Why Brain Function Matters When Symptoms Look Similar
This distinction matters because people with similar symptoms may have very different brain activity patterns. For example, two people may both struggle with anxiety, depression, attention problems, impulsivity, or mood instability, yet the underlying brain patterns contributing to those symptoms may not be the same. As a result, a one-size-fits-all treatment approach may overlook important factors that could influence outcomes.
One of the biggest lessons from the brain-imaging work at Amen Clinics is that mental health conditions are not single or simple disorders. Through decades of brain-imaging research and clinical experience, Amen Clinics has identified multiple brain-based types of anxiety, depression, ADHD, and other common conditions. Different types may benefit from different treatment approaches.
How Our Clinic in Atlanta Uses Brain SPECT Imaging Differently
At Amen Clinics Atlanta Metro Area, brain SPECT imaging is not used as a standalone test. Instead, it is one component of a 360-evaluation designed to help us better understand the whole person, not just identify a list of symptoms.
This approach is rooted in precision medicine. Rather than assuming that people with similar symptoms need the same treatment, we combine brain SPECT imaging with a thorough evaluation to create a more individualized understanding of each person’s needs.
Our clinicians also take a whole-body approach to mental health. We recognize that emotional, cognitive, and behavioral symptoms can be influenced by many factors. By looking at the whole person, we can identify opportunities to support both brain health and overall well-being.
This is one reason Amen Clinics is often described as practicing holistic psychiatry. For us, this means considering what we call the Four Circles of Health.
Four Circles of Health
- Biological
- How your physical body and brain function, plus nutrition, sleep quality, exercise habits, and more
- Psychological
- Developmental issues and how you think
- Social
- Social support, your current life situation, stress, and relationships
- Spiritual
- Your connection to God, the planet, past and future generations, and your deepest sense of meaning and purpose
Discover more about SPECT and mental healthcare in this video: SPECT Made Ridiculously Simple with Dr. Amen (Part 1)
What Happens During a SPECT Brain Scan at Amen Clinics in Atlanta?
At Amen Clinics Atlanta Metro Area, we strive to make the brain-imaging process as comfortable as possible. Our specially trained scan technologists are highly experienced in guiding patients through the process and helping people feel calm and relaxed.
A typical Amen Clinics evaluation includes two brain SPECT scans—one performed while the brain is at rest and another while the brain is engaged in a concentration task.
What Else Is Included in a Brain Health Evaluation at Amen Clinics Atlanta?
A comprehensive evaluation at Amen Clinics Atlanta Metro Area may consist of a 2-scan evaluation, an integrative evaluation, or a 1-scan evaluation. Here’s a quick overview of what’s included in our evaluations.
| Assessment, Diagnostic & Treatment Services | Why It Matters | 2-Scan Evaluation (Our Most Popular) |
Integrative Evaluation | 1-Scan Evaluation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Brain SPECT Scan (At Rest) | This scan measures blood flow and activity, showing baseline activity and revealing areas of strength and concern | |||
| 1 Brain SPECT Scan (During Concentration) | Measures blood flow and activity while concentrating, revealing how your brain functions under stress | |||
| Neuropsychological Assessment | Measures cognitive, emotional, and intellectual functioning | |||
| Clinical History | An in-depth look at your medical, psychological, and lifestyle history | |||
| 1-On-1 Evaluation With ACI Physician | Generous time to explore your diagnosis and create a personalized treatment plan | |||
| Extensive Lab Work | Assesses key health markers that impact your brain, body, and mental health | |||
| 1-On-1 Evaluation With ACI Integrative Medicine Physician | A thorough consultation to address physical factors influencing your mental health | |||
| 1 Follow-Up With ACI Physician | Track progress and adjust treatment as needed | |||
| 2 Follow-Ups With ACI Integrative Medicine Physician | For ongoing guidance | |||
| 2 Aftercare Appointments With Brain Health Coach | To help you implement your personalized plan | |||
| Free Access To Amen Clinics Brain Warrior Alumni Network | For ongoing peer support |
- 1 Brain SPECT Scan (At Rest)
This scan measures blood flow and activity, showing baseline activity and revealing areas of strength and concern
- 1 Brain SPECT Scan (During Concentration)
Measures blood flow and activity while concentrating, revealing how your brain functions under stress
- Neuropsychological Assessment
Measures cognitive, emotional, and intellectual functioning
- Clinical History
An in-depth look at your medical, psychological, and lifestyle history
- 1-On-1 Evaluation With ACI Physician
Generous time to explore your diagnosis and create a personalized treatment plan
- 1 Follow-Up With ACI Physician
Track progress and adjust treatment as needed
- 2 Aftercare Appointments With Brain Health Coach
To help you implement your personalized plan
- Free Access To Amen Clinics Brain Warrior Alumni Network
For ongoing peer support
- 1 Brain SPECT Scan (At Rest)
This scan measures blood flow and activity, showing baseline activity and revealing areas of strength and concern
- 1 Brain SPECT Scan (During Concentration)
Measures blood flow and activity while concentrating, revealing how your brain functions under stress
- Neuropsychological Assessment
Measures cognitive, emotional, and intellectual functioning
- Clinical History
An in-depth look at your medical, psychological, and lifestyle history
- 1-On-1 Evaluation With ACI Physician
Generous time to explore your diagnosis and create a personalized treatment plan
- 1 Follow-Up With ACI Physician
Track progress and adjust treatment as needed
- Extensive Lab Work
Assesses key health markers that impact your brain, body, and mental health
- 1-On-1 Evaluation With ACI Integrative Medicine Physician
A thorough consultation to address physical factors influencing your mental health
- 2 Follow-Ups With ACI Integrative Medicine Physician
For ongoing guidance
- 2 Aftercare Appointments With Brain Health Coach
To help you implement your personalized plan
- Free Access To Amen Clinics Brain Warrior Alumni Network
For ongoing peer support
- 1 Brain SPECT Scan (During Concentration)
Measures blood flow and activity while concentrating, revealing how your brain functions under stress
- Neuropsychological Assessment
Measures cognitive, emotional, and intellectual functioning
- Clinical History
An in-depth look at your medical, psychological, and lifestyle history
- 1-On-1 Evaluation With ACI Physician
Generous time to explore your diagnosis and create a personalized treatment plan
- 1 Follow-Up With ACI Physician
Track progress and adjust treatment as needed
- 2 Aftercare Appointments With Brain Health Coach
To help you implement your personalized plan
- Free Access To Amen Clinics Brain Warrior Alumni Network
For ongoing peer support
To find the best option for you, call 949-371-6811 today to speak to a Brain Health Advisor
Who Can Benefit from a Brain Health Evaluation at Amen Clinics Atlanta?
Anyone who is continuing to struggle with mental health issues despite seeking treatment may benefit from a brain health evaluation. Amen Clinics Atlanta Metro Area serves patients throughout Georgia and the Southeast who are looking for a more comprehensive understanding of their brain health. We help patients of all ages and often work with couples and families.
How Much Does SPECT Imaging and a SPECT Brain Scan Cost?
Because evaluations and treatment recommendations at Amen Clinics Atlanta Metro Area are personalized to each individual’s needs, costs can vary. The total investment depends on the services recommended, the scope of the evaluation, and the type of follow-up care included.
When considering the cost of a comprehensive brain health evaluation with brain SPECT imaging, it’s also important to consider the potential cost of not getting the right answers. Ongoing brain health and mental health challenges can affect many areas of life, including earning potential, productivity, academic performance, relationships, decision-making, and overall quality of life.
How Much Does SPECT Imaging and a SPECT Brain Scan Cost?
Research shows that untreated serious mental illness can cost up to $1.85 million over a person’s lifetime. And individuals with serious mental illness earn an average of $16,000 less per year than those without mental health problems, according to research published in The American Journal of Psychiatry.
While the comprehensive, brain-based approach at Amen Clinics Atlanta Metro Area may involve a higher upfront investment than some standard mental health options, it is designed to help provide clarity sooner. By better understanding brain function and other contributing factors, patients can move forward with more confidence and a more personalized and effective plan.
Amen Clinics partners with CareCredit, a healthcare financing company, to offer financing options for qualifying patients. Patients may also be able to use HSA/FSA benefits for eligible services.
Is Brain SPECT Imaging Safe?
Brain SPECT imaging has been used in clinical medicine for decades and is generally considered a safe procedure when performed by trained medical professionals. The scan uses a small amount of radioactive tracer to measure blood flow and activity patterns in the brain.
The amount of radiation exposure from a brain SPECT scan is relatively low and is roughly equivalent to that of a head CT scan. For most people, the risks associated with this level of radiation are considered minimal.
The radiopharmaceutical used during a SPECT scan at Amen Clinics is not an iodine-based contrast dye. However, because SPECT involves exposure to a small amount of radiation, pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult with their healthcare provider before scheduling a scan. At Amen Clinics Atlanta Metro Area, patient safety is a top priority. Our team is available to answer questions about the procedure and help you determine whether brain SPECT imaging may be appropriate as part of your evaluation.
What Conditions May Be Evaluated With Brain SPECT Imaging?
Brain SPECT imaging may help clinicians better understand brain function in people experiencing a wide range of cognitive, emotional, or behavioral symptoms.
At Amen Clinics Atlanta Metro Area, SPECT is used as part of a comprehensive evaluation that may help provide additional insights for individuals experiencing issues such as:
Amen Clinics has been studying the clinical applications of brain SPECT imaging for more than 35 years. Researchers from leading institutions, including New York University (NYU), UCLA, UC San Francisco, the University of Pennsylvania, Thomas Jefferson University, and the University of British Columbia, have collaborated with the Amen Clinics research team on a wide range of published studies involving SPECT imaging and mental health.
One notable example is Amen Clinics’ research on distinguishing PTSD from TBI, which was recognized as one of Discover Magazine’s Top 100 Science Stories of 2015. This work highlighted how different conditions can produce similar symptoms while involving different patterns of brain function that need different forms of treatment. This reinforces the importance of comprehensive evaluation and personalized care.
Why Professional Evaluation Comes Before a Treatment Plan
Getting a professional evaluation is a critical step in the healing process. Adding brain SPECT imaging to a mental health evaluation can provide valuable information that may help identify more effective treatment strategies sooner.
At Amen Clinics Atlanta Metro Area, developing an effective treatment plan involves looking at the whole person, not just a list of symptoms. Identifying any underlying medical, hormonal, sleep-related, nutritional, inflammatory, or substance-related issues is an important part of the evaluation process. Because mental health symptoms can have many possible causes, self-diagnosis is rarely the best approach. If you’re struggling with symptoms that are affecting your daily life, it is important to seek evaluation from qualified healthcare professionals who can assess your situation comprehensively and recommend appropriate next steps.
The goal is not simply to assign a diagnosis, but to gain a deeper understanding of the factors affecting brain and mental health so that treatment recommendations can be tailored to your unique needs.
Personalized Care After the Scan
At Amen Clinics Atlanta Metro Area, the brain scan is not the endpoint, it’s the starting point. The goal is to better understand your unique brain patterns and use that information to create a personalized plan designed to support better brain health and overall well-being.
Rather than relying on a one-size-fits-all approach, our clinicians use information gathered during the evaluation to identify the factors that may be contributing to symptoms and develop recommendations that address those underlying issues. Depending on your needs, your plan may include:
Medication may be recommended when necessary, but it is only one of many tools that can be used to support recovery and long-term brain health.
One of the core principles at Amen Clinics is that you are not stuck with the brain you have. By understanding how the brain is functioning and creating a targeted, personalized plan, many people are able to make meaningful progress toward feeling, thinking, and living better.
The goal is not simply symptom relief, it’s helping you build a better brain and a better life.
Local Care for Atlanta and the Southeast
Amen Clinics Atlanta Metro Area serves individuals and families throughout Georgia who are seeking a more comprehensive approach to brain health and mental health care. Conveniently located in the North Atlanta area, our clinic welcomes patients from nearby communities, including Sandy Springs, Dunwoody, and surrounding metro Atlanta neighborhoods.
Amen Clinics Atlanta Metro Area is also a destination for people throughout the Southeast who are looking for advanced brain health evaluations and personalized treatment recommendations. Patients regularly travel to our clinic from Tennessee, North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, and other neighboring states to access our unique brain-based approach.
Whether you or a loved one have been struggling with symptoms for too long or are simply looking for a deeper understanding of your brain health, our team is committed to helping you find answers. By combining brain SPECT imaging with comprehensive evaluations, we strive to identify factors that may be contributing to symptoms and develop recommendations tailored to your individual needs.
Most people wait too long to seek brain SPECT imaging in Atlanta for mental health issues.
Get the answers you’ve been missing. Call 949-371-6811 to speak with a Brain Health Advisor.FAQ on Brain SPECT Imaging in Atlanta
Amen Clinics Atlanta Metro Area offers brain SPECT imaging as part of a comprehensive brain health evaluation. Rather than using SPECT as a standalone service, the brain scans are combined with a detailed medical and mental health history, neuropsychological testing, and physician evaluation to provide a more complete understanding of what’s driving symptoms. This leads to a more targeted and personalized treatment plan.
Although a brain SPECT scan is not intended to diagnose anxiety, depression, or other mental health conditions by itself, it can provide valuable information when interpreted alongside a comprehensive evaluation.
For example, SPECT may help:
- Identify brain activity patterns associated with subtypes of anxiety, depression, or other mental health conditions
- Uncover signs of head trauma or exposure to toxins
- Reveal how your brain handles stress
- Guide your treatment plan for more effective results
MRI and CT scans primarily show the brain’s structure and anatomy. They are commonly used to identify tumors, bleeding, or other physical abnormalities.
SPECT is a functional imaging study that measures blood flow and activity patterns in the brain, helping clinicians understand how the brain is working rather than simply what it looks like.
The cost of brain SPECT imaging can vary depending on a person’s needs. At Amen Clinics Atlanta Metro Area, pricing depends on the recommended evaluation and services because SPECT imaging is typically combined with physician interpretation, testing, and personalized treatment planning.
No, Amen Clinics recommends brain SPECT imaging as part of a broader evaluation rather than as a standalone service. This approach allows physicians to interpret scan findings alongside clinical history, testing results, symptoms, and other health information to provide more meaningful recommendations and personalized care.
SPECT imaging may be helpful for some individuals with complex, persistent, or difficult-to-treat symptoms, particularly when additional information about brain function could support the evaluation process.
The best way to determine whether brain SPECT imaging is appropriate for your situation is to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or speak with a Brain Health Advisor at Amen Clinics Atlanta Metro Area.
To find the best options for you or a loved one,
call 949-371-6811 to speak to a Brain Health Advisor.