Dr. Yassar Chakfe, MD
Harvard Trained Neurologist, Neuromuscular Specialist, Clinical Neurophysiologist
Quadruple Board-Certified
Dr. Yassar Chakfe is a distinguished neurologist, neuromuscular specialist, neuroscientist, and educator with more than three decades of experience in both clinical care and scientific research. As the founder of Brain and Nerve Center in Orlando, Florida, he brings a rare combination of advanced academic training, research excellence, and hands-on patient care.
Professional Background
Dr. Chakfe’s career reflects a unique blend of international training and clinical expertise. After earning his medical degree from Damascus University in 1991, he pursued advanced neuroscience research at McGill University, where he completed a Master of Science in Neurology and Neurosurgery.
During his time at McGill, he conducted groundbreaking research at leading institutions including the Montreal Neurological Institute and the Center for Excellence in Neuroscience. His work focused on neurophysiology and cellular neuroscience, contributing to high-impact publications in journals such as Neuron, Nature Neuroscience, and The Journal of Neuroscience.
He later completed his neurology residency at SUNY Downstate Medical Center in New York, followed by an elite fellowship in Clinical Neurophysiology and Neuromuscular Medicine at Massachusetts General Hospital and Brigham and Women’s Hospital through Harvard Medical School, one of the most prestigious training pathways in the United States.
Clinical Expertise
Dr. Chakfe specializes in a broad spectrum of neurological conditions, with particular expertise in:
- Neuromuscular disorders
- Electrodiagnostic medicine (EMG, EEG, evoked potentials)
- Headache and migraine disorders
- Memory and cognitive disorders
- Movement disorders
- Dizziness and balance disorders
- Traumatic brain injury
- Autoimmune neurological conditions
His diagnostic precision and comprehensive approach allow for accurate identification and effective management of complex neurological conditions.
Due to his advanced expertise in complex neurological and neuromuscular conditions, Dr. Chakfe is frequently consulted and recommended by other physicians, clinics, and hospitals for challenging or difficult to diagnose cases.
Board Certifications
Dr. Chakfe is quadruple board-certified, reflecting the highest level of specialization in neurology and neurophysiology:
- American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology — Neurology
- American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology — Clinical Neurophysiology
- American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology — Neuromuscular Medicine
- American Board of Electrodiagnostic Medicine — Top 10% scorer nationally
- American Board of Disability Analysts — Fellow
Academic and Teaching Roles
In addition to his clinical work, Dr. Chakfe is deeply involved in medical education and academic medicine. He serves as:
- Clinical Associate Professor of Neurology at Orlando College of Osteopathic Medicine
- Assistant Professor of Neurology at the University of Central Florida
- Core Faculty Member in the Neurology Residency Program (HCA North Florida / UCF Consortium)
He has trained and mentored numerous neurology residents and medical students, earning multiple teaching awards and serving in leadership roles such as Chair of the Clinical Competency Committee.
Hospital Affiliations
Dr. Chakfe maintains active hospital privileges and affiliations with:
- Advent Health
- Osceola Regional Medical Center
- Orlando Health
Awards and Honors
Throughout his career, Dr. Chakfe has been recognized for excellence in both research and education.
Notable honors include:
- Educational Excellence Award — University of Central Florida
- Best Faculty Teacher — Neurology Residency Program
- Top 10% National Score — American Board of Electrodiagnostic Medicine
- Savoy Foundation Fellowship for Research in Epilepsy (two consecutive years)
- Outstanding Master’s Seminar Award — McGill University
Research and Publications
Dr. Chakfe has contributed to peer-reviewed scientific literature, particularly in neurophysiology and neuromuscular research.
Selected publications include work in:
- Nature Neuroscience
- Neuron
- Journal of Neuroscience
His research has advanced understanding in areas such as neuronal signaling, ion channel function, and autoimmune neurological conditions.
Approach to Patient Care
Dr. Chakfe is known for his thorough, detail-oriented approach to diagnosis and treatment. He combines advanced diagnostic tools with a strong emphasis on patient communication and individualized care planning.
His philosophy centers on accurate and early diagnosis, evidence-based treatment strategies, patient education and transparency, and long-term care and follow-up.
Schedule an Appointment
If you are experiencing neurological symptoms or require a specialist evaluation, Dr. Chakfe provides expert, comprehensive care tailored to your needs.