Having been in the counseling field for 30 years, I have seen a number of  very effective, as well as not-so-effective, approaches to treating substance abuse. One of the more effective has been Neurofeedback.

Neurofeedback is biofeedback of the central nervous system, in this case the brain.

At Green Gate Intensive, we  utilize Neuropathways EEG Imaging ™ technology, which is an effective neurofeedback machine designed to help the brain return to a balanced state. Various disorders disturb brain waves, creating a whole host of physical symptoms. The brain, in its endeavor to maintain homeostasis, wants to return to a balanced state. EEG Neurofeedback facilitates this process.  Non-invasive electrodes are placed at specific sites on the head, enabling the brain wave patterns to be seen on the computer screen. The equipment then filters out and displays a variety of electrical patterns produced by the brain. The computer helps the brain to recognize normal rhythms by producing visual and audio cues as they occur. The brain then makes corrections, and through repetition, is able to return to more optimal rhythmic patterns. In essence, the computer provides a MIRROR IMAGE for the brain.

Changes made with Neurofeedback are permanent, unless the brain is re-injured.

 

A UNIQUE THERAPY

EEG Neurofeedback is effectively utilized in the treatment of stroke, open and closed head injury, Attention Deficit Disorder (ADHD), depression, anxiety, learning disabilities, seizure disorders, sleep disorders, and substance abuse disorders. Its utility in these areas has been documented through research studies. Additionally, EEG Neurofeedback is used successfully to enhance athletic and scholastic performance.  Neurofeedback does not take the place of medical care, medication, or psychotherapy.  Rather, it is complementary to these therapies. 

Addicts respond well to Neurofeedback because many of the more persistent problems that are experienced post-treatment are mitigated. Insomnia, depression, anxiety and focus are often problems that the addict experienced prior to treatment and continue after treatment. These symptoms often lead to a return to substance abuse because they are not effectively addressed through medication or psychotherapy.

Neurofeedback does not help everyone, but it does provide relief for many people on a permanent basis.

 

 

On this 40th anniversary of Woodstock, it is interesting that the legalization of marijuana is making big headlines. Watching the footage of this now historic event, it would seem that legalization of this drug could have happened a long time ago.

Marijuana is an interesting drug. For many, it can be a recreational drug that is used once in a while. For others, its use turns to dependence. It is not a benign substance - it has many negative long term effects.

Having been in this field a long time, I have treated many a pot addict.

So what do you say?

Legalize?

Yes or No?

In the next few blogs, we'll discuss this issue, and we want your feedback along the way!

As Clinical Director at Green Gate Intensive, I have seen many changes in addiction treatment over my 30 years in the field. The most exciting change is the increasing understanding of the importance of a holistic approach to addiction treatment.

Holistic care involves the understanding that the body is a complicated system that has multiple components. These components include the following:*

Physical Body   The physical body involves structures - organs and bones.

Electric Body         The nervous system - electrical activity that involves the heart and brain

Mental Body           The mind - conscious and sub-conscious

Universal Mind      The unconscious

The Soul                 Described as our spirit, our relationship with God

*(As described  by Dr. D. Klinghardt)

The dominant medical approach in America treats the physical body. Pharmaceutical companies control much of medicine today, and there are many drugs out there designed to suppress uncomfortable symptoms. There are certainly times when symptom suppression is very important.  But this approach ignores the other levels. For example, what causes the symptoms in the first place? This applies to addiction. Can we simply medicate addiction? Can we simply suppress the symptoms associated with addiction?

Over the many years, I have come to realize that this approach may be effective for some, but it leaves many others out.

At Green Gate Intensive, we understand that there are many layers to addiction. Does the addict care about living? If not, no miracle drug is going to change that. Does the addict have a brain injury that has slowed the firing of brain waves, creating on-going depression and insomnia?  Medications may help on a temporary basis, but neurofeedback has created a permanent change for many people. What happens at the unconscious level to perpetuate the addiction cycle? Quantum biofeedback may help to identify these issues.

We are detectives - motivated by curiosity, free to explore your individual issues above and beyond the physical body. We know from experience that all addiction is not created equally, and we are committed to helping you identify what is causing you to continue in a downward spiral.

Whatever healing path you choose, make sure that your provider listens to you and respects that you are a complicated being!

 

 

 

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