Light energy is applied externally to the head of a patient who has a healthy brain to activate portions of the brain. The light is applied to the patient's scalp all over the patient's head or to desired portions of the scalp to activate desired portions of the brain. The treatment can be enhanced by activating the cranial nerves while the light is applied. The wavelengths of the applied light range from about 400-760 nm. In a preferred embodiment the applied light is about 640 nm. In a preferred embodiment, the applied light energy is applied with a pulse frequency or frequencies that mimic healthy brain function of alpha, beta, delta, and theta waves. The pulse frequencies can be applied in series, alternately, or simultaneously. The light can be emitted from a single light emitter or from multiple emitters. Preferably the applied light energy is laser light.
