Nestled in the heart of San Jose, NorCal Brain Center emerged from a deeply personal mission: to transform lives through innovative neurological care. More than just a medical practice, we are a community-driven sanctuary of healing, founded on the principles of compassion, expertise, and unwavering commitment.
NorCal Brain Center was established with a vision to offer innovative chiropractic neurological rehabilitation and compassionate care to those in need.
We proudly opened our first facility, marking the beginning of our journey in transforming lives through functional neurology.
Access our case studies to learn more about our research-backed treatments that are transforming lives and advancing neurorehabilitation.
Get a complimentary consultation. Consider whether Norcal Brain Center is right for you.
Dr. Minh Tran is the owner and clinic director of Norcal Brain Center. He takes a multidisciplinary approach, incorporating neurological rehabilitation, vestibular rehabilitation, and metabolic strategies to restore his patient’s health in the shortest time possible.
Born and raised in Fresno, California, Dr. Tran earned his Bachelor of Science in Exercise Biology from the University of California, Davis, where he developed a passion for understanding the human body. He then completed his graduate studies at Life Chiropractic College West before pursuing postdoctoral education in Clinical Neuroscience. He is a board-certified Diplomate of the American Chiropractic Neurology Board (DACNB), working toward his Fellowship in Traumatic Brain Injury and Rehabilitation (FABBIR).
Dr. Tran has received advanced postdoctoral training in dysautonomia, vestibular dysfunction, and traumatic brain injury, allowing him to provide a comprehensive and unique approach to patient care. He applies the latest techniques and research to improve his patient’s health and well-being and continually seeks new ways to better understand and treat complex neurological conditions.
He views the body as an integrated system rather than a collection of separate parts, enabling him to identify the root cause of an issue and develop a personalized treatment plan—rather than merely addressing symptoms. His specialties include post-concussive symptoms, dizziness, and headaches/migraines.
Dr. Tran enjoys freediving in Monterey and Carmel in his free time, pushing his physical limits with CrossFit, spending time with his family, and making various fermented foods at home.
Dr. Brett is an honors graduate of Southern California University of Health Sciences, where he earned both his Doctorate in Chiropractic in 2009 and his Master’s in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine in 2010. He distinguished himself by earning a place on the dean’s list and serving as vice president of the student chapter of the American Chiropractic Association from 2007 to 2008. Before graduating, he gained internship experience under various physicians, including medical acupuncturists, certified chiropractic sports practitioners, internal medicine specialists, and Ayurvedic medicine practitioners.
A second-generation chiropractor, Dr. Brett grew up around complementary and alternative medicine clinics. From an early age, he interacted with patients and witnessed firsthand the power of holistic approaches to healing. This exposure sparked his passion for caring for others, pursuing a career in the sciences, and advancing the field. His postdoctoral studies have focused on functional medicine, sports nutrition, and functional neurology.
Dr. Brett is a native of Oregon and has been in private practice since 2010. He attended the University of Portland, earning a bachelor’s degree in biology with minors in chemistry and political science. He enjoys various outdoor activities, particularly kayaking, mountain biking, snowboarding, hiking, fly fishing, and landscape photography.
Born and raised in the Bay Area, Marisa moved to the Pacific Northwest to attend the University of Oregon, where she majored in Human Physiology. While she loved the outdoors and all the greenery, she quickly realized the cold wasn’t for her and missed her family, so she returned home.
Working at Norcal Brain Center has been an incredibly fulfilling experience for Marisa. She loves helping people regain their independence and reintegrate into their daily lives, and it’s even more meaningful knowing she’s giving back to her community. There’s nothing better than seeing a patient progress and knowing she played a part in their journey.
If Marisa were a crayon, she’d be Pink Sherbet—bright, fun, and her favorite color! And if she were an animal, she’d be a turtle because they’re easygoing and love to swim, just like her.
In the future, Marisa hopes to pursue a career in physical therapy to continue helping people rehabilitate and return to doing what they love!
Griffin’s journey toward becoming a leader in healthcare began in his hometown of San Jose. From an early age, he demonstrated a strong commitment to service volunteering throughout high school, which shaped his passion for helping others. This drive led him to pursue a Bachelor of Arts in Speech and Hearing Sciences, graduating with honors from Washington State University and earning a minor in Human Development.
Griffin’s dedication to healthcare is deeply rooted in his formative experiences. He has seen firsthand the profound impact healthcare can have on people’s lives. Griffin is passionate about helping individuals recover following traumatic brain injuries and other conditions, working toward a future where people regain their health and independence. He particularly enjoys connecting with his patients, watching them grow throughout their treatment, and seeing their progress as they overcome challenges.
Griffin has an adventurous spirit. In addition to his academic and career pursuits, he enjoys reading, traveling to new places, and immersing himself in the latest shows.
Emily Dickinson once said. Inspired by the brain’s boundless complexity and potential, Melanie has found her true passion in neuro-rehabilitation—helping individuals regain the ability to do what they love. As a dedicated Neuro-Rehabilitation Therapist, she combines a strong academic foundation with a heartfelt commitment to supporting patients throughout their recovery journey, ensuring they feel empowered and cared for at every step.
Melanie desires to ensure that every patient feels genuinely heard and valued in their healing process. She believes in the power of empathy and compassion and strives to create a space where people feel understood, respected, and confident as they work toward their goals.
She earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a minor in Family Studies from Boise State University. She expanded her knowledge through the Psychological and Neuroscience program at Maastricht University in the Netherlands. After graduation, she joined Norcal Brain Center (NBC), where she discovered the perfect fusion of her passion for the brain and her dedication to helping others.
Driven by a commitment to providing the best care, Melanie sought to deepen her expertise and is pursuing a Doctorate in Occupational Therapy at San Jose State University. While continuing her studies, she remains dedicated to supporting patients at NBC, guiding them through diagnostics and rehabilitation.
Outside of her professional life, Melanie enjoys staying active with yoga, hiking, surfing, and snowboarding. She loves exploring new experiences, traveling, and meeting new people. She treasures time with her friends, family, and her beloved two cats and dog.
Melanie believes that the little things in life are what makes it extraordinary. She is excited to meet you and help you get back to doing what makes your life truly fulfilling.
Jang was born in Incheon, South Korea, and moved to the U.S. when he was one year old. He was raised in Morgan Hill, and from a young age, he knew that helping others made him happy. At 12, he began volunteering in various capacities, including preparing food, cleaning trash, assisting with after-school activities, and more. However, it wasn’t until he took his first actual science course in high school at age 14 that he developed a passion for science.
Combining his love for helping others with his interest in science, Jang attended the University of California, Davis, and earned a Bachelor of Science in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior (NPB). His time there cemented his passion for healthcare. Since graduating, he has worked at various clinics, hoping to gain as much knowledge and experience as possible to positively impact people’s lives.
Initially, Jang aspired to become a Physician Assistant. After working at Norcal Brain Center for a year and witnessing its profound impact on patients, he hopes to become a clinical neurologist one day.
He enjoys working out, spending time outdoors, and exploring new restaurants with friends and family in his free time.
Roxy grew up in Merced, CA, and recently graduated from the University of California, San Diego, with a Bachelor of Science in Cognitive and Behavioral Neuroscience. Fascinated by the complexities of the human brain and its connection to behavior, she is currently working toward her goal of attending medical school. Her passion for healthcare is driven by a deep desire to work with people and make a meaningful impact on their lives.
She appreciates that NorCal Brain Center provides an environment dedicated to improving patients’ well-being and fostering continuous personal and professional growth. Being part of a team prioritizing innovation, education, and compassionate care has further reinforced her commitment to a medical career.
Beyond her professional aspirations, Roxy enjoys staying active and spending time outdoors, often playing tennis or volleyball. She also loves traveling, exploring new cultures, and creating lasting memories. When she’s not on the move, she cherishes quality time with her dogs and enjoys unwinding with a compelling book or show.
Maha grew up in the Bay Area and graduated from the University of California, Davis, with a Bachelor of Science in Nutritional Biology and a minor in Public Health.
As she works toward her goal of attending medical school, Maha is eager to gain diverse professional experiences. She embraces every opportunity to grow and develop new skills. She is passionate about enhancing patient experiences and fostering strong, supportive communities.
Beyond her professional aspirations, Maha is adventurous and outgoing. She is always eager to explore new places and try new experiences. She finds joy in cultural traditions, good food, and meaningful conversations. In her free time, she enjoys hiking scenic trails, getting lost in a good book, and continuously seeking opportunities for personal growth.
Whether working with patients, leading a team, or engaging with her community, Maha is committed to positively impacting wherever she goes.
Derek was born and raised in San Jose and is pursuing a degree in Kinesiology. He is passionate about movement and rehabilitation and plans to apply to a school with a physical therapy program. He aims to help individuals regain strength, mobility, and confidence in their bodies through evidence-based care.
Derek is particularly interested in staying current with the latest trends in healthcare, continually expanding his knowledge, and finding new ways to support patients. He values the importance of physical and mental well-being and is eager to apply his growing expertise in real-world settings.
In addition to academics, Derek enjoys staying active through bouldering and top-roping, challenging himself with new climbing routes. He also loves exploring restaurants, sharing meals with family and friends, and appreciating good food and great company.
Inspired by her first yoga teacher, this simple yet profound insight has guided Sanjana, a registered yoga teacher (RYT-200), in understanding how breath can be harnessed to transform lives. From helping a diabetic student stabilize blood sugar to easing a runner’s iliotibial band pain, she has witnessed firsthand the resilience and control individuals can reclaim through mindful breathing.
After earning a degree in Psychobiology from UCLA, Sanjana became fascinated with the neurobiological effects of slow-paced respiration and its potential as an affordable, culturally significant treatment. Her research interests have driven her to bridge ancient practices with modern science, focusing on using oxygen to heal neurological conditions. As an HBOT/PEMF Technician at NorCal Brain Center, she aspires to combine humanism with innovation to provide patients with the quality care they deserve.
Sanjana is currently applying to medical school. She aims to improve healthcare literacy and policy, particularly for patients with neurodevelopmental disorders. Outside her professional pursuits, she enjoys gardening, singing Indian classical music, and spending time with her little cousins. In her work and personal life, her mission is to heal, educate, and inspire others to lead healthier, more empowered lives.
Since joining the team in August 2023, Jess has been committed to providing the best care to every patient who walks through the doors, always striving to impact their lives positively. She strongly desires to further her education in nursing and is dedicated to learning and growing through every opportunity at NorCal Brain Center.
Outside of work, Jess enjoys spending time in the great outdoors—whether off-roading, dispersed camping, or simply exploring new places. Traveling is one of her greatest joys, as discovering new destinations and making memories with loved ones fills her heart. She is also passionate about collecting Sanrio (Hello Kitty & Friends) items, which add a fun and lighthearted touch to her personal life.
Jess’s passion for her work and personal interests fuels her continuous drive to grow, learn, and experience the world around her.
Muhammad Ali once said, “Don’t count the days; make the days count.” This drives Adnaan to.
Adnaan was born and raised in sunny Orlando, Florida, before moving to the Bay Area with his family during high school. He graduated from Evergreen Valley High School in 2016 and earned his degree from the University of California, Irvine, in 2020.
While at UCI, Adnaan was an intramural basketball champion and volunteered for student services. When he wasn’t on the basketball court or volunteering, he was an active member of UCI’s concerts commission.
Adnaan enjoys biking, snowboarding, and playing Catan with friends in his free time. He is working toward becoming a registered nurse, following in his mother’s footsteps.
Ayessa joined the front desk team at NorCal Brain Center in January 2025. With a passion for science and helping others, she is dedicated to combining her knowledge of biology with her commitment to providing excellent patient care.
Raised in Milpitas, California, Ayessa graduated summa cum laude from San Jose State University in May 2022 with a bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences, concentrating in Systems Physiology. Throughout her studies, she developed a strong foundation in biology and physiology, equipping her with the expertise necessary to pursue a healthcare career. In addition to her academic success, Ayessa gained valuable leadership experience as an assistant manager in retail, where she helped lead her team to achieve sales targets and ensure outstanding customer service.
Beyond her professional and academic pursuits, Ayessa is driven by a deep desire to make a positive impact on others. Whether through her role at NorCal Brain Center or in her personal life, she constantly seeks opportunities to make a difference—whether by helping a patient feel at ease or offering a listening ear to a friend.
In her free time, Ayessa enjoys shopping, binge-watching shows, and indulging in delicious food, all of which help her unwind after a busy day. She is excited to continue growing in her role, deepening her expertise, and contributing even more to healthcare.
Jackie is a dynamic and energetic leader with over eight years of experience in leadership and management. She is passionate about people and thrives on building meaningful connections with individuals from diverse backgrounds and perspectives. Her enthusiasm for positively impacting others’ lives makes her excited to be part of Norcal Brain Center, where she leads an incredible team of the most compassionate and hardworking individuals she’s ever met.
Jackie, a Bay Area native, was born and raised in San Jose. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a Marketing concentration and a Psychology minor from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo. After college, she returned to San Jose and built a successful career in big-box retail management at Target. Over the years, she gained extensive experience working in more than five stores, managing nearly every department, and even stepping into an interim store manager role. Though she loved her previous career, she is thrilled to transition into the healthcare industry. Being part of an organization dedicated to genuinely improving patients’ lives is an opportunity she deeply values.
Beyond her professional life, Jackie enjoys staying active and adventurous. Movement is an essential part of her routine, whether she’s hitting the gym, hiking, swimming, or going for long walks. She’s also a foodie, traveler, concert enthusiast, and avid reader, always seeking new experiences and opportunities to connect with others. Above all, she treasures time with her friends and family. Her ultimate happy place is anywhere sunny and by the water!
Born and raised in the Bay Area, California, Irene is driven by a deep commitment to helping others through physical recovery or emotional healing. With a degree in Exercise and Sports Science from the University of the Pacific and currently pursuing a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology, she has always been passionate about advocating for those in need.
Irene finds excellent fulfillment in combining her expertise to help lead a team dedicated to supporting patients throughout their recovery journey. She enjoys guiding others and fosters an environment where patients and team members feel valued. She believes the most meaningful moments in her work come from small, everyday interactions—whether witnessing patients take their first steps toward recovery or helping colleagues build confidence in a new role. For Irene, big or small, making a difference in people’s lives drives her to give her best daily.
Besides her professional life, Irene enjoys cooking new recipes, reading a good book, and spending quality time with her four cats.
Never in short supply of a good story (or two), Jessica Savage is a dynamic professional with over a decade of experience delivering client-centered results across journalism, high-tech, education, and healthcare. Whether in marketing, consulting, or coaching, she excels at developing and implementing creative, multidimensional, evidence-based strategies that promote sustainability, cultural well-being, and holistic care. A natural problem-solver, she thrives on pushing boundaries, challenging the status quo, and guiding individuals and teams toward transformative, human-centered solutions.
Her passion for service, neuroscience, rehabilitation, and integrative wellness has led her to pursue a Doctorate in Occupational Therapy (OTD) at USC, alongside completing her Board Certification in Health & Wellness Coaching, all while leading the marketing team at Norcal Brain Center. Her long-term vision is to become a Neuro OT and eventually own and operate a clinic bridging traditional medicine, holistic therapies, and innovative neurorehabilitation practices, helping individuals regain function and improve their quality of life.
Beyond her role at Norcal Brain Center, Jessica’s diverse career has included work as a TV news producer for NBC and CBS, an executive communications manager in tech, and a mindfulness coach for middle school students. Her commitment to integrative wellness has led her to earn certifications as a Forest Therapy Guide and Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT-200).
When she’s not working, Jessica can be found exploring the redwoods with her two dogs, Rosie and James, and her boyfriend, snowboarding or wakeboarding or serving it up on the pickleball court. She also loves cooking, DIY projects, painting, writing, and diving into all things spiritual. A natural storyteller with an insatiable curiosity about the world and the people in it, don’t hesitate to say hi or connect!
Quynh was born in Vietnam and moved to the U.S. at 6. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing from the University of California, Riverside. From a young age, Quynh was drawn to the business sector, but it wasn’t until college that she decided to pursue marketing.
A piece of advice she once received—that ‘marketing is the psychology of business’—resonated with her deeply, as she has always been fascinated by human behavior and the motivations behind consumer choices. She is a self-proclaimed wordsmith passionate about crafting compelling narratives and diving into data to uncover insights that drive meaningful decisions.
Her experience working in diverse industries, such as real estate and education, has allowed her to connect with a wide range of audiences. She has crafted tailored messages for groups such as first-time homebuyers and parents seeking after-school enrichment programs for their children.
She enjoys reading, traveling, and spending time with her family and friends in her free time.
Born and raised in Silicon Valley, Roman has always had a passion for fast-paced environments and a strong drive to learn more about technology. He is also a devoted follower of local sports teams, including the 49ers, Warriors, and Giants. These interests have fueled his love for graphic design and photography, as reflected throughout his portfolio.
Roman is highly adaptable and comfortable in almost any situation. He embraces new challenges head-on and thrives in dynamic environments. What draws him to the marketing world is its ever-evolving nature, providing constant opportunities for growth and innovation. Always seeking new challenges, he is committed to expanding his skill set and refining his expertise.
A natural collaborator, Roman enjoys working with others and is continually learning to navigate professional relationships effectively. He hopes to leverage his networking skills to expand his connections and eventually establish a freelance graphic design and photography business for those who need creative services.
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