Alpha-Theta Neurofeedback is a form of biofeedback that uses auditory cues from brainwave training devices to help clients facilitate voluntary control of relaxed states of mind. Building conscious control over the Alpha and Theta brainwaves from the left occipital cortex enables individuals to calm the critical verbal commentary that their mind imposes on their emotional experience. In calming this constant narrative, the individual is able to gain access to states of consciousness associated with relaxation, nonverbal problem solving, and well-being. Developing the skill to invoke calming states of consciousness enables individuals to be more mindful of their internal experience resulting in responding to potential life stressors in a less reactive manner.
Especially important is neurofeedback’s role in helping people restore a normal sense of pleasure and well-being that they have often sought through the addictive process. The skills developed through neurofeedback can help soothe the agitation associated with recovery and relapse, and can enable individuals to develop greater ease in approaching the emotional issues that they have attempted to manage through substance use in the past. Through this meditative and introspective process, people can establish a more comfortable relationship with life, themselves, and their emotional experiences. This openness to experience can translate into a greater sense of internal peace and emotional
flexibility.
Who is appropriate for Alpha Theta?
Alpha Theta is most effective with patients
addicted to:
- Alcohol
- Marijuana
- Benzodiazepines / sedatives
Alpha Theta is also effective with patients suffering from:
- Major Depression
- Anxiety
- Borderline Personality Disorder
- Antisocial Personality Disorder
- Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (when not
currently flooded with intrusive psychotic ideation)
Alpha Theta is often used with:
- adult children of alcoholics and recovering
alcoholics with and without cravings
- patients with avoidant, schizoid, histrionic, and somatizing personality features.
Length and timing of treatment
Alpha Theta patients at the Professional Renewal Center® generally participate in the program for three weeks while participating in the Day Treatment program. During the three weeks, patients have two 40-minute Alpha Theta sessions and a one hour processing group session each day.
Advantages of Alpha Theta
- Empirically validated treatment method that
offers superior treatment outcomes compared to traditional substance abuse treatments
- Excellent for stabilization, early recovery, and
self-soothing
- Appropriate for addressing characterological
issues, unresolved trauma, and/or unresolved grief
- An excellent treatment tool for beginning to
alter deeper personality issues in short-term
treatment
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