Meet Dr. Nathan Ramirez
View Dr. Ramirez’s CV - Licensed Clinical Neuropsychologist - UPMC Sports Medicine Concussion Program Fellowship-Trained
Dr. Nathan R. Ramirez, PsyD is a licensed clinical neuropsychologist at Aptiva Health, specializing in the diagnosis, evaluation, and management of sport-related concussion (SRC), non-sport concussion, mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI), and post-concussion syndrome. He completed his post-doctoral fellowship at the UPMC Sports Medicine Concussion Program in Pittsburgh — the first and largest research and clinical concussion program in the world — under the direct research mentorship of Dr. Anthony Kontos and the clinical mentorship of Dr. Michael "Micky" Collins. Dr. Ramirez sees patients at the Concussion & Sports Medicine Institute in Louisville, the Lexington Concussion Institute in Lexington, and at Aptiva Health Orthopedics in Mt. Washington. He treats patients across the lifespan — from youth and high school athletes through collegiate, professional, and adult patients — and remains an active researcher with published work on sport-related concussion treatments and on neuropsychological associations with Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias.
Quick Facts
Specialty: Clinical Neuropsychology · Concussion Diagnosis & Treatment
Title: Licensed Clinical Neuropsychologist, Aptiva Health
Fellowship: UPMC Sports Medicine Concussion Program · Pittsburgh, PA (Dr. Anthony Kontos, research mentor; Dr. Michael Collins, clinical mentor)
PsyD: California School of Professional Psychology (CSPP) · Clinical Psychology
Pre-Doctoral Internship: CoxHealth Medical Center / Burrell Behavioral Health · Springfield, MO
Additional Training: Pediatric Inpatient Rehabilitation Practicum at Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh (UPMC)
Licensed in: Kentucky
Treats: Sport-related and non-sport concussions, post-concussion syndrome, mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI), and related neuropsychological conditions — youth athletes through adults
Locations: Concussion & Sports Medicine Institute (Louisville) · Lexington Concussion Institute (Lexington) · Aptiva Health Orthopedics (Mt. Washington)
Active Researcher: 15+ peer-reviewed publications and 35+ international conference presentations in concussion, neuropsychology, and Alzheimer's/ADRD research
Memberships: Sports Neuropsychology Society · National Academy of Neuropsychology · International Neuropsychological Society
Accepting New Patients: Yes
Schedule: Online or call 502-909-0772 (Louisville) or 859-592-1008 (Lexington)
About Dr. Ramirez
Dr. Nathan Ramirez is among the most credentialed concussion neuropsychologists practicing in Kentucky. He completed his postdoctoral fellowship at the UPMC Sports Medicine Concussion Program — the first and largest dedicated concussion clinic in the world, established in 2000 and led by Dr. Michael "Micky" Collins and Dr. Anthony Kontos. Approximately one neuropsychology fellowship slot opens at UPMC each year. Fewer than 40 neuropsychologists nationwide have completed it. Dr. Ramirez trained directly inside the program, under Dr. Kontos as his research mentor and Dr. Collins as his clinical mentor.
His fellowship year at UPMC included full participation in concussion evaluations and individualized active-recovery treatment planning across the full spectrum of concussion presentation — youth athletes through professional and collegiate competitors, motor vehicle accident survivors, post-concussion syndrome cases, and complex cases involving pre-existing ADHD, learning differences, mood disorders, and other comorbidities. He also completed a Pediatric Inpatient Rehabilitation Practicum at Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh (UPMC), one of the country's leading children's hospitals, where he gained dedicated experience evaluating and managing pediatric traumatic brain injury and rehabilitation cases.
Earlier in his training, Dr. Ramirez completed his pre-doctoral internship at CoxHealth Medical Center and Burrell Behavioral Health in Springfield, Missouri, where he rotated through inpatient and outpatient neuropsychology, behavioral health, and rehabilitation populations. He earned his Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) in Clinical Psychology at the California School of Professional Psychology (CSPP), with focused practicum experience including forensic and trauma evaluation at El Paso Behavioral Health and eating-disorder treatment at the UC San Diego Eating Disorders Treatment & Research Center.
Dr. Ramirez has published more than fifteen peer-reviewed papers and presented more than thirty-five times at international scientific conferences. His current research program focuses on two areas: active, targeted treatments for sport-related concussion — the modern evidence-based approach to concussion recovery — and the neuropsychological associations between traumatic brain injury history, brain biomarkers, and Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias (ADRD) later in life. He has published in the Journal of Neurotrauma, Behavioural Neurology, the Journal of Clinical and Experimental Neuropsychology, and the Archives of Clinical Neuropsychology, among other peer-reviewed journals.
He is licensed as a Clinical Psychologist in Kentucky and is a member of the Sports Neuropsychology Society, the National Academy of Neuropsychology, and the International Neuropsychological Society.
Two UPMC Fellowship-Trained Neuropsychologists at Aptiva Health
Aptiva Health is the only practice in Kentucky to employ two neuropsychologists who completed their concussion fellowships at the UPMC Sports Medicine Concussion Program — Dr. Lisa Manderino (Director of Concussion Care) and Dr. Nathan Ramirez. Both trained at UPMC under Dr. Michael Collins and Dr. Anthony Kontos. Together they bring the standardized clinical approach used by Pittsburgh Steelers, Pittsburgh Penguins, U.S. Department of Defense, and Olympic concussion programs directly to patients across Kentucky and southern Indiana — without a flight to Pittsburgh.
For patients, this matters in three concrete ways. First, capacity: same-week appointments are available at multiple Aptiva concussion locations, which means faster evaluation when symptoms are fresh and recovery outcomes are most sensitive to early intervention. Second, depth: complex cases — post-concussion syndrome, multi-concussion histories, comorbid ADHD or learning differences, mood-driven recovery delays, vestibular and ocular subtypes — are reviewed and treated by clinicians whose training was specifically built for them. Third, continuity: Dr. Ramirez and Dr. Manderino coordinate care across Aptiva's vestibular physical therapy, mental wellness, sports medicine, and on-site imaging teams, so a patient's full recovery happens under one roof.
UPMC Fellowship Training: Why It Matters for Concussion Patients
The University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Sports Medicine Concussion Program was the first dedicated concussion clinic in the world. Established in 2000 by Dr. Michael "Micky" Collins and colleagues, the program has evaluated and treated more than 25,000 concussion patients, conducted hundreds of peer-reviewed studies, and trained the small group of clinicians who now run concussion programs at the highest level of professional sports, the U.S. Department of Defense, and academic medical centers across the country.
Most concussion-care providers are trained as primary-care sports medicine physicians, athletic trainers, neurologists, or general neuropsychologists who learned concussion care later in their careers. Dr. Ramirez is one of the few clinicians who trained inside the program where the field's evidence base was built — under the direct mentorship of Dr. Michael Collins and Dr. Anthony Kontos.
What this means for patients in Louisville, Lexington, and Mt. Washington: the same clinical model the Pittsburgh Steelers, the Pittsburgh Penguins, the U.S. Department of Defense, and Olympic athletes receive at UPMC is the model Dr. Ramirez delivers locally — without a flight to Pittsburgh.
A Modern, Active-Recovery Approach to Concussion Care
The old advice for concussion was rest. Sit in a dark room, avoid screens, wait. The current evidence — including research Dr. Ramirez has helped publish — shows the opposite. Prescribed strict rest after concussion can actually worsen symptoms, especially in younger patients and athletes. Active recovery, individualized treatment, and early targeted rehabilitation produce better outcomes faster.
Modern concussion care begins by identifying which symptom clusters a patient is experiencing — vestibular, ocular, cognitive, mood, sleep, or post-traumatic migraine — because each cluster responds to different treatments:
A patient with primarily vestibular and ocular symptoms benefits most from vestibular rehabilitation and progressive visual exercises.
A patient with primarily mood and sleep symptoms benefits most from cognitive-behavioral interventions and sleep hygiene work.
A patient with primarily cognitive symptoms benefits most from neurocognitive training and academic accommodations.
A patient with post-traumatic migraine benefits most from headache-targeted medical management.
Dr. Ramirez evaluates every concussion patient against this subtype framework, builds an individualized treatment plan, and coordinates care across Aptiva Health's multi-specialty team — vestibular physical therapy, mental wellness, primary care, sports medicine, and on-site imaging — under one roof.
Concussion Services & Conditions Treated
concussion services provided:
ImPACT Testing (Immediate Post-Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing) — baseline and post-injury
Vestibular/Ocular Motor Screening (VOMS)
Individualized Active-Recovery Treatment Planning
Vestibular Rehabilitation Referral & Coordination
Neurocognitive Training and Reeducation
Return-to-Sport / Return-to-Activity Clearance
Return-to-Learn Coordination for Student-Athletes
Coordination with Primary Care, Athletic Trainers, Schools, and Employers
Conditions treated:
Sport-Related Concussion (Youth, High School, Collegiate, Professional)
Cognitive Symptoms After Concussion (Memory, Attention, Processing Speed)
Mood Symptoms After Concussion (Depression, Anxiety, Irritability)
Sleep Disturbance Following Concussion
Post-Traumatic Migraine
Pediatric Concussion (Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh inpatient rehabilitation experience)
Concussion with Pre-Existing ADHD or Learning Differences
Psychological Conditions Related to TBI
Using the following procedures, modalities, and treatments:
Neurocognitive Training & Reeducation
Much More!
Education & Training
Postdoctoral Fellowship in Sports Medicine Neuropsychology — UPMC Sports Medicine Concussion Program · Pittsburgh, PA · 2023–2024 · Research Mentor: Anthony P. Kontos, PhD · Clinical Mentor: Michael W. Collins, PhD
Pediatric Inpatient Rehabilitation Practicum — Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh (UPMC) · Pittsburgh, PA · 2024
Pre-Doctoral Clinical Psychology Internship — CoxHealth Medical Center / Burrell Behavioral Health · Springfield, MO · 2022–2023
Doctor of Psychology (PsyD), Clinical Psychology — California School of Professional Psychology (CSPP) · 2023
Trauma-Focused Practicum — El Paso Behavioral Health · El Paso, TX (forensic, inpatient, and intensive outpatient settings)
Eating Disorders Practicum — University of California, San Diego Eating Disorders Treatment & Research Center · San Diego, CA
Licensure & Memberships
Licensed Clinical Psychologist — Kentucky
Sports Neuropsychology Society
National Academy of Neuropsychology (NAN)
International Neuropsychological Society (INS)
Selected Peer-Reviewed Publications
Dr. Ramirez's published research focuses on sport-related concussion treatments, neuropsychological assessment in older adults following concussion, and the relationship between traumatic brain injury history and Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias. Selected peer-reviewed publications:
Ramirez, N.R., Reeves, R., Mucha, A., Trbovich, A.M., Womble, M., Holland, C., Kegel, N., Sherry, N., & Kontos, A.P. (2024). Comparison of Multidomain Clinical Assessment Outcomes in Older Adults Following Concussion. (Manuscript in advanced revision/publication.)
Ramirez, N.R., et al. Action Sport-Related Concussion: Current Research and Clinical Outcomes Among Athletes (Encyclopedia of Sport and Exercise Psychology, in preparation).
Ramirez, N.R., Reeves, R., Mucha, A., Trbovich, A.M., Womble, M., Holland, C., Kegel, N., Sherry, N., & Kontos, A.P. Relationships Between Time to Vestibular and Medical Clearance Following Concussion. (Manuscript.)
Hindash, A.C., Lujan, C., Ramirez, N.R., et al. Designing and Validating Screening. (Manuscript.)
Ramirez, N.R. (2024). Clinical Utility and Factor Structure of the Functional Activities Questionnaire (FAQ) in a Sample of Hispanic Adults Affected by Behavioral Variant Frontotemporal Dementia. (Doctoral dissertation, California School of Professional Psychology, Alliant International University.)
Ramirez, N.R. (2022). A Comparison of Multidomain Clinical Assessment Outcomes in Older Adults Following Concussion. (Doctoral clinical comprehensive exam, California School of Professional Psychology, Alliant International University.)
Ramirez, N.R., et al. Effects of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation on Perceived Quality of Life in Seventeen Patients with Treatment-Resistant Depression.
Ramirez, N.R., et al. Anchoring Effects of the Trail Making Test on Performance Validity Tests: Performance Patterns in Adults with Hippocampal-Atrophy, CTE-PCS, Tau Pau, and Fluorodeoxyglucose-Positron Emission Tomography Glucose-Hypometabolism. (PET Imaging in Mild Cognitive Impairment Disease Research.)
Ramirez, N.R., et al. Clinical Tility and Factor Structure of the Functional Activities Questionnaire (FAQ) in a Sample of Hispanic Adults Affected by Behavioral Variant Frontotemporal Dementia. (Manuscript.)
A complete publication list (including over 35 international and national conference presentations) is available on Dr. Ramirez's CV.
Where Dr. Ramirez Sees Patients
Louisville, Kentucky - Concussion & Sports Medicine Institute: 3615 Newburg Road, Louisville, KY 40218. Tel: 502-909-0772. Convenient for patients across Greater Louisville, Jefferson County, Oldham County, Bullitt County, and southern Indiana.
Lexington, Kentucky - Lexington Concussion Institute: 426 Codell Drive, Suite 101, Lexington, KY 40509. Tel: 859-592-1008. Serving Fayette County, Jessamine County, Madison County, Scott County, and the Greater Lexington / Bluegrass region.
Mt. Washington, Kentucky - 737 N Hwy 31E Bypass, Suite 2, Mt. Washington, KY 40047. Tel: 502-909-0772. Serving Bullitt County, southern Jefferson County, Spencer County, and Shepherdsville.
How to Schedule a Concussion Consultation
Most patients see Dr. Ramirez after a sports injury, motor vehicle accident, fall, workplace incident, or assault — either as a self-referral, on referral from a primary care physician, athletic trainer, or emergency department, or for a second opinion when prior concussion care has not produced recovery. Many parents bring children or teens after a youth-sport or high-school-sport concussion.
A first consultation includes a full history of the injury and pre-injury medical and academic history, a focused neurological and vestibular examination, ImPACT testing where appropriate, and a written individualized treatment plan with clear next steps. Aptiva Health offers same-day imaging at multiple Kentucky locations when needed.
Dr. Ramirez sees patients on commercial insurance, Medicare, Kentucky Medicaid, workers' compensation, auto-accident coverage (PIP and MedPay), and cash-pay terms.
Schedule An Appointment Today!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a concussion?
Concussion is the word used to describe traumatic brain injuries (TBI) at the most mild end of the spectrum. While more severe TBIs include changes to the brain structure that can be seen on neuroimaging (like bleeding or skull fracture), concussion changes the way the brain functions. Concussions can occur with or without loss of consciousness. Symptoms include headache, dizziness, balance problems, light or sound sensitivity, mood changes, sleep disturbance, and difficulty with memory, attention, or concentration.
Where did Dr. Ramirez complete his concussion fellowship?
Dr. Ramirez completed his postdoctoral fellowship at the UPMC Sports Medicine Concussion Program in Pittsburgh — the first and largest dedicated concussion program in the world, led by Dr. Michael Collins and Dr. Anthony Kontos. Fewer than 40 neuropsychologists nationally have completed this fellowship. Dr. Ramirez trained under Dr. Kontos as his research mentor and Dr. Collins as his clinical mentor.
Does Aptiva Health really have two UPMC fellowship-trained concussion specialists?
Yes. Aptiva Health is the only practice in Kentucky to employ two neuropsychologists who completed their concussion fellowships at the UPMC Sports Medicine Concussion Program — Dr. Lisa Manderino (Director of Concussion Care) and Dr. Nathan Ramirez. Both trained under Dr. Michael Collins and Dr. Anthony Kontos. Together they bring the same standardized clinical model used by the Pittsburgh Steelers, Pittsburgh Penguins, U.S. Department of Defense, and Olympic concussion programs to patients across Kentucky and southern Indiana.
When should I see a concussion specialist?
If concussion symptoms persist beyond 3–5 days, are severe at any point, or are interfering with school, work, sport, or daily activities, a specialist evaluation is recommended. Earlier targeted treatment generally produces faster recovery. Aptiva Health offers same-week appointments at all concussion locations.
What is ImPACT testing?
ImPACT (Immediate Post-Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing) is a computerized neurocognitive test that measures attention, memory, processing speed, and reaction time. It is used to establish a baseline of brain function before a concussion and to evaluate cognitive recovery after one. Dr. Ramirez is ImPACT-trained through his UPMC fellowship and uses the test as part of comprehensive concussion evaluation.
Should I rest in a dark room after a concussion?
No. Current evidence — including research Dr. Ramirez has contributed to — shows that prescribed strict rest after concussion can actually worsen symptoms, particularly in younger patients and athletes. Modern concussion care begins with light activity, symptom-targeted treatment, and progressive return to school, work, and sport.
Does Dr. Ramirez treat children, teens, and high school athletes?
Yes. Dr. Ramirez treats concussion patients across the lifespan — from youth athletes and high school students through collegiate, professional, and adult patients. His training at the UPMC Sports Medicine Concussion Program included extensive pediatric and adolescent concussion experience, and he also completed a Pediatric Inpatient Rehabilitation Practicum at Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh (UPMC). He coordinates return-to-learn plans with schools and athletic trainers.
Do I need a referral to see Dr. Ramirez?
No referral is required for most patients. Many self-refer after a sports injury, fall, motor vehicle accident, or workplace incident. Some insurance plans require a primary-care referral; Aptiva's billing team verifies insurance and referral requirements before the first visit.
What is post-concussion syndrome and can it be treated?
Post-concussion syndrome (PCS) refers to concussion symptoms that persist beyond the typical recovery window — often weeks or months. It is treatable. Dr. Ramirez's subtype-based assessment identifies which residual symptoms (vestibular, ocular, cognitive, mood, sleep, or migraine) are driving the case, and matches the patient to the targeted rehabilitation that addresses each cluster.
Can Dr. Ramirez clear me to return to sports, school, or work?
Yes. Return-to-sport, return-to-learn, and return-to-work clearance is a core part of Dr. Ramirez's practice. Clearance is based on resolution of symptoms, neurocognitive recovery on testing, and a graduated reintroduction protocol — not on a fixed calendar.
Does Dr. Ramirez handle workers' compensation and auto accident cases?
Yes. Aptiva Health treats concussion patients on workers' compensation, auto accident coverage (PIP and MedPay), commercial insurance, Medicare, and Kentucky Medicaid.
What insurance does Dr. Ramirez accept?
Aptiva Health accepts most major medical insurance plans, Medicare, Medicare Advantage, Kentucky Medicaid (Passport Molina, United Healthcare Medicaid, Anthem Medicaid, Aetna Better Health, CareSource), workers' compensation, auto-accident coverage (PIP and MedPay), and cash-pay arrangements. Call 502-909-0772 for benefit verification.
Where does Dr. Ramirez practice?
Dr. Ramirez sees patients at three Aptiva Health locations: the Concussion & Sports Medicine Institute in Louisville, the Lexington Concussion Institute in Lexington, and Aptiva Health Orthopedics in Mt. Washington.