The effectiveness of neurofeedback as an adjunct treatment for various addictive and mental health disorders has been documented by several researchers over the past 40 years.

When used three or more times a week, the Trainer has been proven to strengthen alpha and theta waves. Beta waves are generated in an awake or alert state; high levels may indicate excitation or anxiety. Alpha waves occur during periods of rest, relaxation and meditation, and are associated with improved cognitive performance and immune system functioning. Theta waves, often referred to as “twilight” state, have been found to improve memory function.  Stronger alpha and theta waves may improve sleep and help control cravings, thus decreasing the need for alcohol and substance abuse.

My own testing with the NeuroAdvantage Trainer indicated that I operate at a high beta rate, so my goal was to relax and relieve stress, meditate and focus. I experimented with almost every setting. There are various Hz frequencies which can be used when putting this device to work in therapy sessions, or for patients’ in-home use. It is important for users to familiarize themselves with the device, so they know which Hz frequencies to use, as well as those to stay away from.  As I learned through my own use of the device, some can induce a rather undesirable reaction. I vaguely remember floating through the grocery store feeling detached from my body as I slowly sunk into a delayed panic attack after using a specific beta setting that apparently did not agree with my psyche.

After a few months of use, I can attest to the NeuroAdvantage Trainer’s functionality, as long as the right settings are applied. During the day I varied between the alpha and beta ranges, often using the audio coaching session on Mindfulness to accompany each session. I found this coaching session to be the most effective, aside from my own musical playlist.

The results were immediate, and over time, were much easier to sustain. I was able to focus without that “foggy” feeling one often gets in the late afternoon. My mood was elevated and my stress levels were reduced after a repeated use of the device. In the evenings I experimented with theta waves, which significantly increased my ability to sleep more soundly. I awoke feeling refreshed and less stressed. The NeuroAdvantage Trainer requires continuous usage at least three times a week to maintain happy results. If you slack off, they dwindle much like they would if you stopped taking your medication.

The pros: The results are significant and immediate; it forces you to sit down and take a few minutes for each session — which also forces you to stop everything else; it has no side effects like prescription medications; you can use it as often as you want, or only when you need it without worrying about withdrawal; it is lightweight and very portable; and you can pay for it in installments.

The cons: It forces you to sit down and stop everything else; there can be bad reactions to no-no settings that just aren’t right for your brain; those with epilepsy or other aversions to pulsing light or sound will not be able to use this product; it is a bit pricey for the layman, but well worth it for the individual who is looking to invest in a long-term recovery plan that does not include medication. For more information on the NeuroAdvantage Trainer, visit www.neuro-advantage.com.

Jenna Bensoussan is the Associate Editor of Counselor Magazine.

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