Individuals who suffer from mental health disorders and addiction often struggle to manage their intense emotions. In an attempt to calm these emotions, they may turn to alcohol or drugs, which can further deteriorate their mental well-being.
This cycle may seem never-ending, but there is hope.
Neurotherapy offers a way forward for those with emotional dysregulation and a deep understanding of how addiction impacts and is impacted by the brain.
What Is Neurotherapy?
Neurotherapy is a drug-free treatment that utilizes brain map technology to pinpoint irregular brainwaves that lead to poor mental health and addiction.
This treatment is based on the science of neuroplasticity, which highlights the brain’s ability to reorganize and create neural pathways. These neural pathways store and carry information between the nerve cells (neurons) each time an action is performed. Over time, repetitive actions cause neurons to form strong bonds, especially when pleasure or pain is present.
Neuroplasticity and Addiction
When someone uses drugs or alcohol, the brain rewards the user by releasing a feel-good hormone called dopamine. Neural pathways begin to form, and when the person no longer feels the effects of dopamine, they feel the urge to use the substance again. Over time, this becomes a habit that leads to substance abuse and addiction.
Neuroplasticity and Mental Health
Similarly, those with mental health challenges may develop negative coping strategies to deal with the symptoms of their condition. The more they rely on these mechanisms, the stronger the neural pathway becomes, placing them in a perpetual cycle of negative feelings and coping strategies. In an attempt to escape this cycle, some may turn to drinking or using drugs.
The ability to develop new habits is, therefore, the most important aspect of mental health treatment and recovery.
Is Neurotherapy for Addiction Evidence-Based?
Being that neurotechnology is an evolving science, Neurotherapy isn’t evidence-based yet, but there are several studies to support its efficacy in treating many conditions, including:
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Addiction
- Migraines
- Anxiety
- ADHD
According to research, Neurotherapy for addiction is useful on its own. However, it works best with evidence-based approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT).
What Happens in a Neurotherapy Session?
Neurotherapy is divided into two phases: assessment and treatment.
The assessment phase includes a psychological written test administered by a neurotherapist and an electronic recording of brainwaves using an electroencephalogram (EEG).
Using an EEG as a Diagnostic Tool
An EEG is a painless test that involves wearing a cap containing 16 to 25 small metal electrodes. Each electrode has a small wire that leads back to a machine connected to a computer.
These electrodes detect electrical signals within the brain that appear as pulses (brainwaves) on the computer screen. These brainwaves appear whether a client is sleeping, sitting still, or given stimuli such as a specific sound to listen to or a specific item to touch.
Creating a Brain Map
After the test, the results are turned into a brain map for the neurotherapist to share with the client. The neurotherapist can determine whether brain activity is normal or irregular by reading this map. They are also able to identify maladaptive brain patterns caused by:
- Concussions and other previously undetected brain injuries
- Undetected learning problems
- Drug intoxication
- Alzheimer’s
- Seizures
Symptomatic Relief with Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Stimulation (pEMF)
Pulsed-Electromagnetic Field Stimulation (pEMF) aims to relax the brainwaves, allowing the participant to enter a state of calm and relaxation. This treatment works by sending electromagnetic energy through a bioacoustics bed. The participant lays on the bed for 15-20 minutes per session to enjoy the benefits.
According to research published by MedCentral, pulsed electromagnetic field stimulation activates brainwaves associated with contentment, which could reduce common opioid withdrawal symptoms and improve treatment outcomes.
Remapping for Progress
The next step in treatment is to create a new brain map to monitor progress. Based on the results, the treatment plan is either continued or adjusted to help the client reach their goals.
What Condition Does Neurotherapy Treat?
Neurotherapy treats a wide range of issues stemming from substance abuse and addiction. These conditions include:
- ADHD
- Addiction
- Anxiety
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
- Depression
- Insomnia
- Migraines
- Stress
- Panic Attacks
- Opioid withdrawal
This is not an exhaustive list, and the field of Neurotherapy is constantly evolving. As research progresses, new connections between this form of treatment and its potential benefits for other mental health conditions may emerge.
What Are the Advantages of Neurotherapy?
Neurotherapy is a noninvasive treatment that helps individuals regulate their brain activity. This treatment enables them to better understand their thoughts and emotions, which helps them identify the root cause of unwanted behaviors. Each session lasts for 15 to 20 minutes and is relatively short, without any significant side effects.
Participants can expect an improvement in symptoms and a chance to relax during the sessions, which offers additional health benefits.
Getting Started With Transformations
Embark on your journey towards recovery with Transformations Treatment Centers. Our facilities are licensed and accredited nationally to deliver the best possible care. We employ a comprehensive approach to treating addiction, which includes evidence-based therapies and integrative programs such as Neurotherapy, to provide a fully holistic experience.
If you or a loved one can benefit from Neurotherapy treatment, please call us at (844) 770-0165 to learn more.
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