Neurofeedback Therapy for Addiction Treatment in Atlanta, GA

When someone feels lost in addiction, they may not know all of their options. Our neurofeedback addiction treatment in Atlanta, Georgia offers help that can be highly effective. Addiction takes hold of a person’s brain.

Because of this, it makes sense to address it in the same place. This type of painless, drug-free treatment can help a person make great strides in recovery. Consequently, they are likely to stay substance-free longer.

What is Neurofeedback Addiction Treatment?

Many may not have heard of neurofeedback addiction treatment. Still, it has been around since the 1960s. It has been used to help with medical conditions such as Parkinson’s disease and aneurysms. In addition, it can assist in treating mental health conditions like anxiety. Furthermore, it can help people struggling with addiction.

This type of therapy is also referred to as EEG biofeedback and Neuro Therapy. Neurofeedback creates a map of a person’s brain waves. It identifies where damage to the brain is located. Because of this process, the clinician can identify where the dysfunction in the brain occurs. As a result, a person can begin to heal the damage done by addiction.

What Happens in a Neurofeedback Addiction Treatment Session?

One of the first things many people wonder about neurofeedback treatment is if it will hurt. Actually, the entire process is pain-free. Secondly, a person may wonder if it involves the use of drugs. In fact, it does not—the entire session is typically stress-free. When the person arrives, they sit in a comfortable chair.

Next, the clinician attaches electrodes to their scalp. A monitoring system reads brain wave activities via the electrodes. The person will then begin an activity, similar to playing a video game. In contrast to regular video games, the individual will learn to control the action via their brain.

The more practiced they become at this, the better they get. As a result, they can apply this skill to addressing the reactions to their addiction. Computer software is used for video game activities. It rewards the person when they produce improved or normal waves. Similar to regular video games, a person becomes better at them as they put in more time engaging in them.

As well, the game meets the person at the difficulty level that matches their needs and goals. Part of the process includes paying attention to physical reactions. These include a person’s breathing, thoughts, and feelings. Consequently, they learn to further control their brain wave patterns.

The clinician creates a brain map that indicates areas of abnormal activity. They can then create a program to train the brain to change its activity. Consequently, the person begins to retrain their brain. For example, they can learn to produce fewer urges to use substances. Hence, the symptoms of their addiction begin to subside. In turn, this helps reduce the chances of relapsing.

How Quickly Does Neurofeedback Therapy Take Effect?

Not everyone feels the results of neurofeedback addiction treatment at the same time. On average, people notice improvement within 3 to 4 weeks. For many people, the results become permanent. The retraining of their brain becomes second nature.

Because of this, they only need an initial round of treatment. Alternatively, some people benefit from the need to return for an additional round. The clinician will work with the individual to determine their specific needs.

How Long Does Neurofeedback Therapy Last?

Neurofeedback therapy begins with an initial assessment. The clinician gathers information about the person’s addiction history. Then, they establish treatment goals. They take into consideration current concerns and symptoms that need addressing. From there, sessions are typically conducted twice a week. Each one takes about 30 minutes.

Most people report feeling relaxed during their sessions. They also build confidence as they improve at remapping their brain. No medications are used during this treatment. Because of this, a person may drive themselves home. They may also immediately return to their normal schedules and activities.

Can Neurofeedback Therapy Work Alone?

Neurofeedback addiction treatment can provide wonderful results. However, it should not be assumed to be a stand-alone treatment. It works best when combined with other approaches. For example, talk therapy combined with neurofeedback can produce great results. In addition, it can prove helpful alongside 12-Step-type programs.

Another helpful combination can come with using medication-assisted treatment (MAT). MAT helps many people deal with things like withdrawal symptoms and substance cravings. It primarily helps with alcohol and opioid addictions. It can also produce positive results when combined with our neurofeedback addiction treatment at Buckhead Behavioral Health in Atlanta, Georgia.

Is Neurofeedback Addiction Treatment Covered by Insurance?

Many insurance plans cover neurofeedback treatment for addiction. Anyone interested in it should contact their provider to see if they offer coverage for it. If they do provide coverage, they may require approval for it before beginning treatment. Our admissions staff can help a person determine if their insurance covers our treatment. If not, we can also help suggest ways to finance its cost.