Brain & Body Care: The Power of Neurotherapy for Anxiety and Depression

Think Bright Therapy aims to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health, which has become more visible and accepted in our daily living. It is easier to discuss and seek help for mental health issues, but more awareness is needed. If you or someone you know needs to talk to someone, please contact us:  [email protected]

Over 40 million people in the US suffer from anxiety, which can alter the brain’s structure and cause physical symptoms. Neurofeedback, a noninvasive treatment that re-trains the brain to regulate emotions, can be effective for generalized anxiety disorder by decreasing beta waves and increasing alpha waves. M. Antoinette Walker, a counselor and neurotherapist of Think Bright Therapy, explains that neurofeedback aims to teach clients how to regulate their brain state to promote relaxation. 

What is neurotherapy? 

Neurotherapy is a type of therapy that combines neurofeedback, biofeedback and talk therapy to help clients achieve self-control of brain functions. Neurofeedback, also known as EEG biofeedback, measures brain activity with sensors placed on the scalp and provides auditory and visual feedback to the client. The clinician adjusts the level of difficulty as the client progresses to advance the brain to an optimal state. Neurotherapy is an evidence-based intervention that combines rewiring the brain at a cellular level with other therapeutic methods, such as breathing techniques, to reduce stress and anxiety. It can be used to treat a variety of physical and mental health concerns, including substance use disorders, sleep problems, chronic fatigue, depression, anxiety, trauma, addictions, panic attacks, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and post-traumatic stress, and can also be beneficial for peak performance training. 

Neurofeedback as a treatment for anxiety 

Neurofeedback has been shown to effectively lower levels of anxiety through measuring and altering brainwaves over time. Age, severity of the condition, and frequency of treatment sessions can all affect the amount of time required to see results. Through repetition and feedback, clients learn to alter their brainwaves to produce the desired effects, and an individualized protocol is developed to meet their specific needs. Walker recommends two 30-minute sessions per week for 15 weeks to achieve optimal results, as no two brains are the same. 

There are different types of neurofeedback training that Walker practices, including amplitude training, infra low frequency, and Alpha Theta training. The first step in amplitude training is obtaining a brain map, which identifies the location of dysregulated currents and guides the clinician in developing a protocol for treatment.  

Neurofeedback takes advantage of the brain’s plasticity to reinforce new neuropathways, leading to the formation of healthy connections and the pruning of old unhealthy connections. This treatment re-trains the brain, resulting in significant reductions in a return to old pathway patterns. 

Who may benefit from neurotherapy? 

Neurofeedback may be beneficial if you: 

• Desire to explore peak performance levels. 
• Are seeking alternatives to talk therapy. 

Anxiety sufferers may benefit from long-lasting relief through neurotherapy. 

Neurotherapy, specifically neurofeedback, has been shown to provide long-lasting relief for anxiety. According to Walker, the benefits of neurofeedback differ from medication because they continue even after the training sessions have ended. However, it’s essential to note that neurofeedback is not a quick fix. While it can be highly effective in reducing or eliminating anxiety, its success is also dependent on the client’s active involvement and dedication to the process. As such, Walker recommends maintenance sessions as needed to ensure sustained results. 

Think Bright Therapy uses neuro-based approaches to help individuals and groups understand the connection between their brain and body in relation to mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and substance use disorders. Clients learn to regulate their bodies, emotions, and implement changes in their lives using various approaches, including psychotherapy, neurofeedback, breathing, and mindfulness skills, as well as integrated medicine. Think Bright Therapy offers a whole health approach to help individuals develop new neuropathways and heal their entire body, resulting in a sense of self-actualization and increased strength. Contact us today at  [email protected] or (206) 880-1936.